I think you nailed it, most of the hatchets on the market and second rate compared to old faithful Estwing . As for the knife those handle shapes as this knife are most diffidently Asian, over the years I have purchased to many of this style never being happy with any it's just like you said nothing to hold on to I want a handle that fills the hand and I also want something weighty . Great review the hatchet looks great though . Happy trails
I run the fiskars and I have no reason to buy any other axe. It's light weight and is a work horse. If I need a sling I'll just make one from old gear straps or paracord.
Great review and thanks for your honesty. Just as soon as I seen that knife handle I knew that was the end of that game. Also like you said so many better hatchets out there for the same price or lower. Stay safe.
I have the Camp 5 and Camp 10 and I think they are both good for their intended purpose. The Camp 5, as it’s name suggests, is nothing more than a camp kitchen knife, and it does well in that use case. It’s particularly good for cutting up meat so it’s a great choice for deer camp. Yes I also wish the handle was more substantial but for food prep I think it’s fine and I like the D2 steel better than 1095 for a camp knife that I can toss into a camping box without worrying as much about rust or needing to be resharpened as frequently. It’s definitely not my favorite camp knife but it’s a decent choice for that very specific purpose.
Imo the hatchet carry system is awesome. Would like to get one for myself. Not gonna go logging with it 😁 but for Sunday morning forest walks it's a good hatchet
I just got one of each of these, and while I've yet to get it out into the woods for testing, I am happy to report that the small grip on the Camp 5 fits my small hands quite nicely. People with small hands need knives, too....people with larger hands can always just wrap grip tape around a handle that's too small; you can't really do it the other way around. As for the Camp Hatchet, I totally see its downsides, but can seen its packability as a significant plus that makes up for its lackings. Still, I can tell I'll need to actually put it to work to see if it's any good.
Great review! I expected that performance from the hatchet... so similar to the Buck Compadre Hatchet that you didn’t like either. I feel like a lot of production companies are coming up short these days with regard to build quality and materials and design
I remember when the Camp 5 came out and I really like the look of it but the handle made no sense to me with how thin it got at the end. Thanks for confirming my speculation. If they make a adjustment to the handle I'd be interested, until then I'll pass.
Like others have said, thanks for the honesty! On a side note, many of the comments speak of how you trashed Kershaw. I don't see it that way. I see a company who sought feedback and received it. If they are sending you items and have watched your reviews then they knew you would tell it how it is which sometimes brings humility and is a good thing. Kershaw releases some of the sharpest factory knives I have ever bought. That doesn't mean they are the best steel. I too, like other commenters, hate that these companies get in bed with China. I would love to see Kershaw follow in Gerbers footsteps and bring it back home along with upping there game. Kershaw, if you are reading this, I applaud you for rolling the dice and would respect you even more if you sent Gideon even more items to review in the future. It would definitely show that you are not sending free items for dishonest or paid reviews and that you are sincerely working towards creating equipment worthy of good honest reviews.
Thank you for the honest reviews. I really like some Kershaw knives, and dislike others with one main reason being the small feeling of the handle. With the axe Kershaw lost me at $95.00 MSRP ($60.00 real) for a MIC axe, NFW.
Hey - nice video but I have to ask: Why do you say they aren’t in your top 3?? I’m pretty sure you have more than three hatchets and knives that you’d take over these - right?? I’m probably just OCD but it bugged me that you didn’t say “not my first choice” or “not in my top 10”, which I’m guessing would both have also been true no?? “Not in my top 3” implies that they’re your 4th choice - but based on your evaluations that doesn’t seem to be the case... Just a bit confusing but thx for the info!
Seems like a really good combo, "seems" that's the key word. The looks are cool to me but in but for the performance and price point I think you can do a little bit better buying a separate knife and a separate axe.
I really didn't like any of your alternates to the knife. The first one is much larger, but that isn't a good comparison, because I am looking for a smaller bowie style tactical knife. The other cheap knives were in no way comparable. I understand you don't like the handle but the blade on the Kershaw is far superior. In order to get what I'm looking for is significantly increase the price point.
Working with a food produce is ok, but need sharp every few days and working with a wood is bad in compare with any cheap mora .so The camping 5 is good camp knife but doesn’t work in bushcraft . Is better in flip the BBQ or any meat Commodity is good
The only value Kershaw has to me is for cheap knives, usually given as freebies, that I wouldn't mind handing to the "hey do you have a knife I can borrow?" folks. There's so many good hatchets you can have at the price point they're asking that Kershaw should have really brought something to the table if they were going to try. I knew as soon as I saw the profile that was going to be awful at splitting. And 3Cr? That's a hard hard pass from me. In a world where I can get a nice feeling great performing Husqvarna hatchet for like $47, and a Mora or Strongarm for the same price on the knife, there's no situation where I'd buy either of these.
Try there USA made knives..I bought my M390 Link for $70,my 20CV Link for $60,my copper+CPM-154 Leek for $80,my 20CV Bareknuckle for $110 and my N690/CPM-D2 composite blade Dividend for $50..as far as I’m concerned USA made knives in these materials for these prices really can’t be beat..we must not forget,when it comes to brands like Kershaw and Buck they have their premium USA made line and their budget Chinese made line..KAI makes Kershaw’s USA made knives and they make 100% of Zero Tolerance knives...unfortunately,Kershaw hasn’t had a USA made fixed blade knife in several years now but they do have some great folders,autos and a great budget friendly balisong/butterfly knife..I love Kershaw but I don’t buy their Chinese made products
Top 3? I have tools that I really like and it still doesn’t make my top 3. I figure with the amount of tools you own you would say something like top 10 or even top 25 for tools that doesn’t really connect with you. I appreciate the honesty of this video even though top 3 might be a little diplomatic.
The only reason I said top three is because I gave three other hatchet and knife examples. Not being diplomatic, thanks and I’m glad that you enjoyed the video. 😀👍
Thks for ur honest review. I guess this means ur no longer on the Kershaw Christmas list. At least u can sleep goog at night. Thks for ur honest opinion thats why I suscribe.
Simple case of being too focused on “original design “ on that knife handle. Your customers don’t need something that is stylish, or original, or hip, or innovative. It’s a knife. Just use the handle design that’s been used on millions of knives before. Save the stylish design for the $500 mid tech folders and $1200 fixed blade customs. Nobody uses those knives because it’s all about looks.
You had me at made in China 👎🏻 Most everything Kershaw makes in USA is great, I wish they’d get out of bed with these over seas manufacturers. I’d say let the other side (ZT)make a dedicated fixed blade better hardware and made in your own backyard. Thanks brother have a great day
EXACTLY!!! Finally,someone who gets it..I see a lot of people talking about how terrible Kershaw knives are without understanding Kershaw still has quality knives being made here in the USA.as far as I’m concerned USA made Kershaw knives are the best bang for your buck..I bought a M390 Link for $70,a 20CV Link for $60,a copper+CPM-154 for $80,a 20CV Bareknuckle for $110 and a N690/CPM-D2 composite blade Dividend for $50..good luck finding any other USA made knives in these materials for these prices..a Benchmade in these materials will cost 2 or 3 times as much...I would love to see Kershaw start making some USA made fixed blades again or ZT.ZT has some great fixed blades a few years back but they haven’t made a fixed blade in a while now,unfortunately...I do occasionally still see ZT fixed blades go up for sell on BladeForums but they always sell immediately
D2 on a fix blade in the same price range as the strongarm with the same application of use... no thank you. This is where I will gladly take 420hc. Franky and bird quickly showed why d2 is not a good idea for a camp knife. Broke with no effort.
I have that camp 5, and I really like it.
I think you nailed it, most of the hatchets on the market and second rate compared to old faithful Estwing . As for the knife those handle shapes as this knife are most diffidently Asian, over the years I have purchased to many of this style never being happy with any it's just like you said nothing to hold on to I want a handle that fills the hand and I also want something weighty . Great review the hatchet looks great though . Happy trails
Keeping it REAL! Wouldn't expect anything less Aaron!
I run the fiskars and I have no reason to buy any other axe. It's light weight and is a work horse. If I need a sling I'll just make one from old gear straps or paracord.
Great review and thanks for your honesty. Just as soon as I seen that knife handle I knew that was the end of that game. Also like you said so many better hatchets out there for the same price or lower. Stay safe.
Dang that SRK that you posted the deal for seems like an even better deal after seeing how bad that Camp 5 performed.
Can I have them then?
I have the Camp 5 and Camp 10 and I think they are both good for their intended purpose. The Camp 5, as it’s name suggests, is nothing more than a camp kitchen knife, and it does well in that use case. It’s particularly good for cutting up meat so it’s a great choice for deer camp. Yes I also wish the handle was more substantial but for food prep I think it’s fine and I like the D2 steel better than 1095 for a camp knife that I can toss into a camping box without worrying as much about rust or needing to be resharpened as frequently. It’s definitely not my favorite camp knife but it’s a decent choice for that very specific purpose.
Campsite looks vacuum cleaned and all cobwebs removed… the knive is obviously for smaller hands, I agree. Hatchet is not ment for splitting.
Gideonstactical + only links and no description = SCREWED
Imo the hatchet carry system is awesome. Would like to get one for myself. Not gonna go logging with it 😁 but for Sunday morning forest walks it's a good hatchet
I just got one of each of these, and while I've yet to get it out into the woods for testing, I am happy to report that the small grip on the Camp 5 fits my small hands quite nicely. People with small hands need knives, too....people with larger hands can always just wrap grip tape around a handle that's too small; you can't really do it the other way around.
As for the Camp Hatchet, I totally see its downsides, but can seen its packability as a significant plus that makes up for its lackings. Still, I can tell I'll need to actually put it to work to see if it's any good.
Consider Efengrow knives. Generally shorter handles with a bias towards short and fatter hands. I.M.O. Good luck.
Great review! I expected that performance from the hatchet... so similar to the Buck Compadre Hatchet that you didn’t like either. I feel like a lot of production companies are coming up short these days with regard to build quality and materials and design
Bro it's a survival knife.... It's way better then any of those junk knifes u said
Well at least your honest about the products. Everyone has their favorites and most hated
Great honest review.....why I love your channel
I remember when the Camp 5 came out and I really like the look of it but the handle made no sense to me with how thin it got at the end. Thanks for confirming my speculation. If they make a adjustment to the handle I'd be interested, until then I'll pass.
Complete and honest review as always. I hope Kershaw took some notes on how to improve it.
Like others have said, thanks for the honesty! On a side note, many of the comments speak of how you trashed Kershaw. I don't see it that way. I see a company who sought feedback and received it. If they are sending you items and have watched your reviews then they knew you would tell it how it is which sometimes brings humility and is a good thing. Kershaw releases some of the sharpest factory knives I have ever bought. That doesn't mean they are the best steel. I too, like other commenters, hate that these companies get in bed with China. I would love to see Kershaw follow in Gerbers footsteps and bring it back home along with upping there game. Kershaw, if you are reading this, I applaud you for rolling the dice and would respect you even more if you sent Gideon even more items to review in the future. It would definitely show that you are not sending free items for dishonest or paid reviews and that you are sincerely working towards creating equipment worthy of good honest reviews.
Great review. Thank you. I was considering the Camp 5. But I think that I check out some other options. Thanks Aaron for the helpful information
BRUTAL honesty👍..
0:17-0:29 (end of video) Enough said! 😅🤣🤣🤣
I love your honesty on the Kershaw combo Ewing does make great hatchets and hammers keep up the good work
Thank you for the honest reviews. I really like some Kershaw knives, and dislike others with one main reason being the small feeling of the handle. With the axe Kershaw lost me at $95.00 MSRP ($60.00 real) for a MIC axe, NFW.
This is a great case for something that on paper looks good but the use shows that specs don't always make for a good tool
Laying the smack down....😎
Hey - nice video but I have to ask: Why do you say they aren’t in your top 3?? I’m pretty sure you have more than three hatchets and knives that you’d take over these - right?? I’m probably just OCD but it bugged me that you didn’t say “not my first choice” or “not in my top 10”, which I’m guessing would both have also been true no?? “Not in my top 3” implies that they’re your 4th choice - but based on your evaluations that doesn’t seem to be the case... Just a bit confusing but thx for the info!
If you want a multi use camping blade you should check out the Kershaw camp 10. Works better than any hatchet I've used.
That X-7 is a real beast, and bought because of the stellar review by this channel!
I would love your take on the Boker Plus Armed Forces Tactical Fixed 7.3 knife! See how it stacks up with the rest similar knives
Good reviews and new interesting video production. 👍
Seems like a really good combo, "seems" that's the key word. The looks are cool to me but in but for the performance and price point I think you can do a little bit better buying a separate knife and a separate axe.
Great review as always buddy
Keep them coming!
Make it a project with your boys to make some thicker handle scales for the knife
"Not in my top 3" is very vague, is it your 4th favorite or your least favorite?
Where do you go walking to find all this dead wood? All the Colorado parks near me in golden seem to be picked clean.
I really didn't like any of your alternates to the knife. The first one is much larger, but that isn't a good comparison, because I am looking for a smaller bowie style tactical knife. The other cheap knives were in no way comparable. I understand you don't like the handle but the blade on the Kershaw is far superior. In order to get what I'm looking for is significantly increase the price point.
Do you do hrt
Working with a food produce is ok, but need sharp every few days and working with a wood is bad in compare with any cheap mora .so
The camping 5 is good camp knife but doesn’t work in bushcraft .
Is better in flip the BBQ or any meat
Commodity is good
Really looking forward to your review of the TKC Architect.
THANK YOU FOR HONESTY MATE. Subscribed
Love your vids bro, but I really wished the quality was much better but also made in TAIWAN rather than China
What about the Ontario Tak 1 it's 1095 steel and 60 bucks
The only value Kershaw has to me is for cheap knives, usually given as freebies, that I wouldn't mind handing to the "hey do you have a knife I can borrow?" folks. There's so many good hatchets you can have at the price point they're asking that Kershaw should have really brought something to the table if they were going to try. I knew as soon as I saw the profile that was going to be awful at splitting. And 3Cr? That's a hard hard pass from me.
In a world where I can get a nice feeling great performing Husqvarna hatchet for like $47, and a Mora or Strongarm for the same price on the knife, there's no situation where I'd buy either of these.
Try there USA made knives..I bought my M390 Link for $70,my 20CV Link for $60,my copper+CPM-154 Leek for $80,my 20CV Bareknuckle for $110 and my N690/CPM-D2 composite blade Dividend for $50..as far as I’m concerned USA made knives in these materials for these prices really can’t be beat..we must not forget,when it comes to brands like Kershaw and Buck they have their premium USA made line and their budget Chinese made line..KAI makes Kershaw’s USA made knives and they make 100% of Zero Tolerance knives...unfortunately,Kershaw hasn’t had a USA made fixed blade knife in several years now but they do have some great folders,autos and a great budget friendly balisong/butterfly knife..I love Kershaw but I don’t buy their Chinese made products
Top 3? I have tools that I really like and it still doesn’t make my top 3. I figure with the amount of tools you own you would say something like top 10 or even top 25 for tools that doesn’t really connect with you. I appreciate the honesty of this video even though top 3 might be a little diplomatic.
The only reason I said top three is because I gave three other hatchet and knife examples. Not being diplomatic, thanks and I’m glad that you enjoyed the video. 😀👍
I get it now, great vid. Looking forward to the next one.
Nice video, even though you got them free.You were honest.
Re sub, RUclips didn't like my comments on the election so I was "terminated" in their words
OUCH!!! - Good video, shakes my head as Kershaw lies bleeding in a ditch
Thks for ur honest review. I guess this means ur no longer on the Kershaw Christmas list. At least u can sleep goog at night. Thks for ur honest opinion thats why I suscribe.
Good honesty, appreciate it.
Simple case of being too focused on “original design “ on that knife handle. Your customers don’t need something that is stylish, or original, or hip, or innovative. It’s a knife. Just use the handle design that’s been used on millions of knives before. Save the stylish design for the $500 mid tech folders and $1200 fixed blade customs. Nobody uses those knives because it’s all about looks.
Fiskars x7 is better some hunters love this because is cheap lite and do the good job.
Is very simple in maintenance
You had me at made in China 👎🏻 Most everything Kershaw makes in USA is great, I wish they’d get out of bed with these over seas manufacturers. I’d say let the other side (ZT)make a dedicated fixed blade better hardware and made in your own backyard. Thanks brother have a great day
EXACTLY!!! Finally,someone who gets it..I see a lot of people talking about how terrible Kershaw knives are without understanding Kershaw still has quality knives being made here in the USA.as far as I’m concerned USA made Kershaw knives are the best bang for your buck..I bought a M390 Link for $70,a 20CV Link for $60,a copper+CPM-154 for $80,a 20CV Bareknuckle for $110 and a N690/CPM-D2 composite blade Dividend for $50..good luck finding any other USA made knives in these materials for these prices..a Benchmade in these materials will cost 2 or 3 times as much...I would love to see Kershaw start making some USA made fixed blades again or ZT.ZT has some great fixed blades a few years back but they haven’t made a fixed blade in a while now,unfortunately...I do occasionally still see ZT fixed blades go up for sell on BladeForums but they always sell immediately
compare it to Becker BK16
Bk16 is much better
D2 on a fix blade in the same price range as the strongarm with the same application of use... no thank you. This is where I will gladly take 420hc. Franky and bird quickly showed why d2 is not a good idea for a camp knife. Broke with no effort.
Kershaw knows better than to put a crazy handle like that on a knife .
terrible, your suggestions made me unsubscribe from your channel. I also think your fake. Your suggest look like you get them from top ten lists.
Design over Useability