Years ago I read the novel “Danger West” and a company was hiring to create a trail through a stream bottom. The interview was to tell the candidates to choose an axe in a hardware store. Those that got hired were the ones that asked if they could bring their personal axes.
@@talisikid1618 not so, those that got hired were those that knew that slight differences in weight, length and balance make a difference when working in tight spaces.
I recently went canoe camping for the first time with friends in Algonquin and everyone chuckled when they saw me bring my full length axe (Cold Steel Trail Boss) because we already had a folding saw and hatchets. Buuuuuuuut lo and behold, the bulk of viable wood we found were relatively wide diameter trees. With the rain, we needed a hot, slow burning fire and plenty of fuel. Fortunately, my axe did what their hatchets could not do easily: blast through thick logs like nothing. The long handle makes it a bit awkward for fine detailed work, but it did just fine making shavings. It holds an edge really well and is easy to sharpen with a simple sharpening stone (brought that too just in case). Used it to hammer our new tent stakes too and made a few wedges with it to split a particularly resistant log. The full axe is relatively light and honestly it straps on pretty easily. The most important thing I think regarding axes is learning how to actually use them and being confident about the swing. I cringe when I see someone about to take a huge swing and I see, just inches away, a large stone in the ground. Like bro, just cut it AWAY from the rock! Little things like that make a difference between a good axe-user and a dangerous one. While the full length axe is more cumbersome than a hatchet or shorter handle axe, I find one simple truth: the large axe can do pretty much everything a small axe can, but a small axe cannot do everything a large axe can. Great videos! Subbed :)
I WHOLEHEARTEDLY agree. If i'm just visiting, or only staying a short time, I at least want something about the size of a SFA (mine is a merit mark boys axe head on about an 18-19" handle) My real axe is a Kelly perfect jersey hung on a 32". Holy crap that is an axe. Even when I hunt and hike and have NO intention on processing a single stick, I carry a hatchet. A few years after starting that, I keep being surprised how much I use it AND how it is almost equal to a knife for processing game. I like it so much that it lives full time in the kitchen...
@@mattfleming86 I just restores a felling axe , possibly a True Temper. It weighs 6 pounds and has a 36” handle. It pretty much is my do anything and everything axe
@@davidvines6498 Great choice. Does it have the little "ribs" inside the eye? That's almost a dead giveaway. Kelly True Temper made MANY house brands. My favorite Kelly is labeled Belknap Bluegrass... which is cool for me because my late Grandpa used to collect the stuff. It's about a 3.5 lb jersey, thin bit, and I think it hung about 31" or so. It's worth the weight. Splits really good for a felling axe. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I have enjoyed mine.
@@mattfleming86 yes one double bit thats Red has the ridges inside. I was told it’s a Woodslasher, another double bit is a True Temper Kelly Perfect. It’s stamped into the axe with the number 3. It has the bevels like the felling axe
I'm a 58 year old homemaker, grandma, and love your instructional videos. I just learned about axes here for the first time in my life. Although I've split plenty of wood in my 20's and 30's, bearing and raising 6 children in a 1700 year old homestead, I never really had anyone critique my tools. They were already very old tools we would pick up at auctions during the 80's. They worked then, and now still, super well. Dependable, quality work horse tools. But to watch you detail - talk about tools is a new thing for me. And if I bought new tools, would definitely be details that I'd keep in mind. I'm in the mountains now, no longer on the homestead. I'm also far north in PA now also where winters are snowy and cold which I love. State forest surrounds my property. Black bears are my neighbors. We enjoy a slower pace life now, but really enjoy learning survival skills from your channel. Chopping wood is 9 months of the year's work here. We have a splitting maul for big stove firewood, and hatchet and hammer for small stove firewood, and sledge hammer and wedges for big snarly chunks and we bring dying and dead trees down with a chainsaw. My husband and I grew up in the outdoors and the woods and the streams every day of our lives, as kids growing up in the '60s and seventies you weren't allowed to be in the house your mother kicked you out so we literally spent all the seasons outside, even winter and in blizzards, and we had a great time! Truth! Life was good then. Life outdoors back then was safer for kids. So we could be over mile away from home as long as we were home for supper didn't matter where we were. It was like Little House on the Prairie days, I even walked a mile to school back then and back home all by myself, from age 5 years old and up. Now parents can't even let their kid out in the front yard by themselves without watching like a hawk cuz somebody could take them. So yes we agree with you get outside, play in the woods, walk in the woods explore the woods.. take it all in.. breathe the woods air and listen to the sounds everybody! 👍 Take care everyone.
Axe safety, axe-orientated ifak, injuries through tiredness from a too-heavy axe, stance, footwear, axe- maintenance, technique. Almost a whole channel bin itself right there. Thanks 👍
I agree of fatigue/use of tools/perfect form. Sounds like giving up of sorts, but if losing form, rest those muscle groups and dig into another task ya know you've to do and come back. It's not loss of time for the most part as said. Heck, the fun of chopping may even return with the rested muscle group. Yeah, Henry Ford did a job for a production line, but since you mentioned, I wonder how many injuries happened due to fatigue. lol, once upon while stacking two face cords dumped by some clown missing the mark and hit my driveway(winter). I walked away and tried to make a rock/stone carin (stack) out in the yard as art. I came back to the wood stacking with song in heart 'n head. Funny how some chit as works, if life isn't really on the line. ~~~ dayum squirrels/robins liked the rock stack. fook dat. (-:
Just looking at all the different patterns of axes (past and present) should be a clue that no single axe is going to excel at every task. Most, if not all can be used beyond the specific intent of their design, but at some cost of efficiency, ergonomics, control, precision, etc. Great info Dan, thanks!
I find carpenters axe works pretty well as long as you keep in mind what tree your hacking at. Yeah it can cost work for bigger trees but it can be done... or pick a different tree. And! lets face it, most people carry a knife of some sort with them too. If you knife is anywhere near worth it you should be able to baton out some firewood too. The axe doesn't have to do all the splitting.
This has got to be the best simplified "explanation" video on axes. It goes into the what, why and when of axes. I learned more here than at a survival class where they were trying to tell us that we all needed the same axe, theirs! Thank You! And I just subscribed!
Dan , I'm a recent subscriber, and I have to tell you...I like your video's more and more all the time...informative, humorous, all without being condescending or egotistic. Thank you. You covered handle length, bit or head weight, and bit thickness, One thing you did not cover is axe head style. tomahawk, hatchet, felling, splitting, double bit, tactical, as what is best or more practical overall for "bushcraft" . thanks again.
The axe head is going to determine a lot, I would recommend a forest axe. But it does depend on what exactly you are doing, you might need/want the size of a hatchet, but then be limited on what you can do. you may want a felling axe, but then have to lug that thing around, and be limited on what you can do. a 15-20inch forest axe is a good compromise of size, and weight, its not too small to do larger jobs, and its not too big to do finer carving. A forest axe, is not that different from a carpenters axe. and IMO the best choice for bush crafting, but everyone is different...Hatchets are nice...you might be 8 feet tall and think a firemans axe is perfect.....but you probably want a 15-20in forest axe if you are looking for an axe that's not too big, not too small, and heavy enough to get things done
Man your brutal truth is awesome! You come across as helpful, almost agitated to push back against dumb questions, but at the same time just being genuine and helpful.. you rock $500 Filson jackets over $15 Harbor Freight pants… that’s awesome. Most ‘tubers get famous and drop all of their “old” equipment in favor of the new “coolness” that ether given to them In exchange for being a shill… I leave those channels about that time… great job brother, keep it up! 🇺🇸
I recently started watching your videos. I like the way you simply and understandably explain things without talking down to people or making people feel stupid. Your videos are very informative and direct. Thank you.
Great summary on axes. Touched on everything I thought about when getting my first "bushcraft" (utility) axe. One thing I did as a newbie was to get a bit longer of a handle to make some of the camp chores a bit safer. I believe its a 23 inch. I want to downsize to about a 19-21 inch but just have not got there yet. You are making me think about going smaller now but I might just "need" to get a secondary trappers hatchet or something haha. As a personal choice I had to make sure it was a Hudson Bay style axehead as well. I like the aesthetics more and if you don't like your axe you will use it less. Also I like how the shape lets me choke up for finer tasks. Not sure if that curvature is made specifically to enable choking up but it sure seems like it is.
No harm having multiple tools. At home I have a maul for splitting firewood and a hatchet for a do all of sorts that works well for everything I use it for from putting points on sticks to splitting firewood into kindling. I wouldn’t want to be splitting a night’s supply of firewood with it though, need that maul for that. A friend moved and gave me a couple aces he was leaving behind but I have yet to use them for anything. I would guess a machete would get used more in my area than an axe would, not that there aren’t roles for axes just that an axe isn’t the best tool for carving a trail through dense undergrowth of shrubs, saplings and briars.
great video! One thing that can also play a role in deciding, is the weather. Most of the year i get by with either a hawk or a boys axe. But with where I live, in winter i carry a much more substantial axe. 6lb head on a 36 inch handle to deal with frozen trees and a 30 inch bow saw. For anyone wondering why such a beast of an axe, I've seen axes bounce off of frozen trees. So you want it heavy, and VERY sharp to bite into frozen wood. Just a tip from a northern woodscrafter. have a great day you all!
Taking your comments to heart, I’m looking for a for efficient fire prep as the first priority. Second is emergency shelter construction. Third is camp/cabin building. Emphasis is on efficiency first and portability second. My current choice (not purchased yet) is 2.5 lbs overall with 1.6 pounds of that being the head. The cutting edge is 3.25” and handle length is 23” total. The bit seems designed to help split but also has decent bite with a thin or narrow wedge profile. It generally is an all-around good compromise on paper. My pack has side pockets with “pass through” behind them. Straps top and bottom make it a great home for an axe of this size. Hoping to pick it up this summer and get some practice in with it
Ok, so I know you were mostly talking about backpacking. Since I am mostly out overlanding in my Jeep, I carry 3 axes. 1 hatchet for small work and tent pegs. 1 medium 24" handle with a fine thin 2 lb head for shaving feather sticks. 1 large 3.5 lb head 34" handle for splitting and chopping wood. Again only because I have a vehicle to carry them for me, I bring them all and usually use all 3 when making camp.
I have 4 main axes I just love and use all the time. My hatchet is a Snow & Nealley Outdoorsman belt axe and is great for out elk hunting and day trips. My Council Tool Woodcraft pack axe 24" is my most utility axe by far and is always on my backpack for excursions and I use it in the wood pile quite often. Next is my 3.5lb Our best from Snow & Neally with 30" handle. This is my truck axe and chainsaw companion axe. Last is my Council Tool 6lb Dayton that I use only for spitting rounds. As you may have noticed, only American made for me. The S & N do require a good sharpening out of the box, but I enjoy honing an edge to my liking. All fit different needs and all work really well when taken care of.
Its been a real joy to find your outstanding presentation on this subject! Your experience, expertise and clear, credible and concise analysis shone through and I was hugely impressed how you explained that only the user can determine which tool will be the best for them, and to ignore those that say, "this is the best hatchet/axe for you and is all you'll need". I read and watched multiple sources of information but my decision what to buy was arrived at after seeing just what the tool could accomplish in the hands of an expert and them explaining how he got the best from the tool (obviously, having the tool the expert used with phenomenal success does not accord me those same skills!). Old Jimbo showed what could be achieved with a GB Mini Hatchet (the tool I was interested in) and I ordered one. At first sight and handling I felt that this was perfect for my intended usage, something that no reviews, photos or videos could do (the videos could show what it could do, not whether it was right for me!). In time I've added a GB Wildlife Hatchet, and years later a GB Small Forest Axe (and a GB Neck Knife). Developing an understanding and appreciation of hatchets and axes took time and has been enjoyable and beneficial. Your presentation helps viewers to do so. Subdcribed.
When I was first shopping for a camping axe, someone told me either get a hatchet or go full length - if you miss, those full-length handles will be more likely to put the bit into the dirt than your shins.
I custom hung my own axe, 2lb head on a 25" handle, my primary use is fire making and shelter building with a secondary use of harvesting material for other primitive tool making, works perfectly for me, never step into the woods without it, long enough to chop, light enough to carry.
This was actually very helpful, it completely changed my perspective on what I should truly get. Granted there will be some level of trial and error but this truly minimized it.
In my younger days I learned most of this stuff by trial and error especially trying to split wood with the wrong axe! This video is 100% on point, and the best one I've seen regarding all aspects of axe craft for beginners and experienced folks alike thanks and keep up the great work.
some people disregard the tomahawk as a tool for cutting and chopping. it wasnt just a weapon or anything like that. if i were to get an axe, it would be a grandfors bruks or a crkt woods chogan, cause i wouldnt need to have a huge honkin thing of an axe to do any kind of big tasks if it's just me myself and i. or me with a friend. here in indiana we have some pretty decent sized trees but i wouldnt go out of my way to chop down a dead standing monster for just one camp night. the more i think bout it, the more i lean to the tomahawk cause of the fact that you can replace the handle in the field should something happen, but you cant with the grandfors. good video and im lucky to have come across this video, thank you :D
I personally respect Estwing's axes as survival tools. They're quite heavy and they're not the best performers overall, but they're reasonably priced and their dependability has been proven on more than one occasion. Thank you for the great video.
Hey brother...watched this video again. Axe or hatchet. Two handed axe. One handed hatchet. Yes I'm a collector of fine steel. I have hewing axes, splitting axes as well as roofing hatchets and hewing hatchets. I'm a big fan of Plumb steel. I use a different sharpening method in my shop. But your "in the field" demonstration is nice. I'll have to find myself a small stone like you're using. Very good video.
Went camping the other day. I always bring a bolo and knife but that day i also brought a constrution axe with crowbar on top and hammer on the other end. Man never thought that i will use that axe way more than the other and i loved using it. I'm now planning to buy a proper axe for my needs that's why I'm here. Thanks the advice.
My go-to is a tomahawk. The one I'm currently toting is a Cold Steel pipe-hawk. I love it. Modify the handle to your liking and a tomahawk is a very versatile axe type tool.
I'm subscribing because the man talks sense, is entertaining and NEVER once in my experience mentions an influencer page or Patreon or like myself, sometimes asks for viewers to buy me a beer (if they can and if they think my effort is worth it). You have integrity, you're honest in your videos and seem genuine. Something sadly lacking nowadays in a lot of the BIG subscriber channels.
Nice , never really thought about an ax and there different uses . I lived in the mountains at 9,000 feet for 34 years and heated our house with wood and would go through about 6 to 8 cords a year and got real good at wood processing for heating the house . Big heavy splitting maul was the ticket but when we camped it was not the best option so I ended up with something similar to your all purpose ax and know have 3 axes and use them accordingly. So I guess now that I think about it they do serve different purposes and your absolutely right they become very personal and if you take care of them they last a long time . Thanks for the video Happy Trails
I personally carry the cold steel pipe hawk. Light weight breaks down if needed most of what i do is light fire wood processing (no bigger than my wrist ideally) and care camp cooking items such as spatula works good for me
I'm the everything category. I use two Council Tool Axes, the Flying Fox on a 21" haft and Camp Carver on a 22" haft. They both weigh around 2 pounds each. One Convex and the other a Flat grind, cover just about any scenario. And I don't typically tackle anything bigger than 10" around.
Hey, this is the greatest video on axes I have seen. I have never been a fan of axes since I never really used them or I used one for an inappropriate task and it was too heavy so it didn't feel right. After this video it made me rethink axes quite a bit. Thanks.
I wish I would have watched this when it posted. That said I've purchased several axes over the years and my go to is the Hults-Bruk Torneo Felling axe. Not great for really small or really large tasks but a nice all round useful tool for the kinds of things I do in the Michigan woodlands.
Very very good video, I'm kinda new to this stuff just bought a new axe , felt I needed something fairly robust yet middle of the road,so got a nice 4lb head with a longer handle,30 something in. Luv it !! Thanks again for your insights friend!
Excellent video. The other thing I’d mention to consider would be how we are travelling. Are we hiking? Canoeing? A short to mid size handle, lighter weight head would be best. If I’m on the atv or in a side by side, I can take a bigger, heavier axe…or even a couple of axes! Weight isn’t as much of an issue.
Thanks Dan! I bought my GB Wildlife without knowing to consider any of this.. but after watching this awesome explanation, it seems I chose well and now I know why. Great vid!
Just get 6 or 7 or a few more and one will be your favorite. And sometimes one of the others is needed and you go , wow, I’m Glad I got this extra ax !
I have small (14”? I think?) and medium (20-22”-ish) Estwing camp axes, and small and large Fiskar’s splitting axes. They do all I could ever ask them to, didn’t cost so much that I’m afraid to use them hard, are all nearly indestructible, and will all take and retain a VERY sharp edge. All make decent hammers, too. They’re all in the extended cab of my truck in my camp gear box, but I’ll take one or two with me if I’m backpacking, kayak/bike camping, etc. If I had to choose just one, I think it’d be the larger Estwing. It does everything reasonably well, and doesn’t totally suck at anything. That big (like 36”+) Fiskar’s splitting axe is the most amazing firewood splitting tool I’ve ever used by a mile, and I’ve used them all. Hard, gnarled, knotty, eastern US hardwoods fly apart effortlessly, it just blows my mind. I have a huge old maul that I’ll get out for the most ridiculously twisted stuff, but these days I generally just use those pieces as center-of-the-fire all weekend pieces rather than killing myself trying to split them.
I am more of a beginner to camping and bush craft. I first got a swiss army surplus hatchet, then later got a cold steel tomahawk. When I go out on a trail to camp, I have found that I do not need a hatchet nearly as much as my knife, saw, and shovel. I use the shovel for digging a fire pit and prep camp site by digging up briers. I had to sharpen my hawk a lot before it was worth using. My main use for it is to debranch limbs, and maybe baton and make stakes. I also like using the back to hammer stakes.
Thank you much for this video. I watched you earlier about making a Glut, to split apart a large log using only an Axe. I wondered which axe you were using. Thanks again.
I'm probably about to catch all kinds of flack. I actually have a "half hatchet" that was my grandpa's. It's been mine for over 35 years now and I don't camp without it. I keep it sharp enough to shave with and HONE it lightly after each day of use. I also wrap the head in oil paper if it's not going to be used for a week or more. I also made the 13 3/4 in handle out of cypress. I know, odd choice of wood but I like the feel, besides the fact that I was in the woods when the old handle split due to misuse on my part. Didn't want to make it out of pine, so cypress won. Been on for about 10 yrs now..Great video.
Most certainly helped me to decide on the ax that best suits my needs. Great explanation of the ax itself. Really appreciate all these video gems. Totally upping my bushcraft game !!!! Got a knew subscriber 👍
As someone who appreciates utility, my personal choice is the CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk for a good all together utility axe design. I have used it to do everything from making curls for feathersticks, to dropping trees 6" or more and bucking them down to rounds for splitting. I also have a saw for that reason, but I wanted an axe that could do that as well if the saw ever broke. It's also a hand tool for scraping hides and other tasks as well as having a purpose built hammer poll for driving stakes, nails, and pegs. It has a 19" Tennessee Hickory handle that I intend to replace myself soon with some good hand picked 24" red or white oak. It has just over a 2lb head which helps in driving it into hard woods when splitting them out for firewood. It's also exceptionally well balanced currently for throwing which I greatly enjoy as a camp game along with knife throwing. There's certainly no "one to rule them all" axe out there for everyone, some people can just go to any local hardware store and pick up a basic axe like Husqvarna or Husky or Kobalt and be just fine and happily satisfied. Some people will have to get a custom length axe with a custom weight head and particular design profile and so much more. I say to each their own, I know what I like and what works for me. Someone else may not support the CRKT brand or have access to their products so they have to get what they can to start with. The one thing that never changes though is axe safety protocols. Axe are dangerous tools that can do a lot of damage to both hard material like bone and soft tissue like skin and muscle. Regardless of axe design, always maintain awareness when using any sharp and heavy tool.
You used a lot of terms consider; Force=mass x acceleration therefor the longer handle creates more acceleration. The head weight increases mass. I hope this helps. Great video!
Tomahawk does a little bit of everything for me, the hammer on the backside is a bonus for hammering in stakes, breaking rocks, killing attacking predators, whatever I happen to be up to. Ultimately, it's just a fun option. A broken handle is easier to replace in a pinch in the woods as well, so there's that.
As always, great break down. I went with the Snow & Nealley camp axe. Made in the USA, 24 inch, general purpose axe. Not to heavy, not to long, works great! I did have to spend some time getting the edge right. Ok out of the box but not to that "be careful with that" sharpness.
Good advise on axes. Myself I have an axe that was bought in a batch of broken handled axes for $10 dollars at a yard sale. Most of the axes were paper weights. Except for 1. It had a weight of 3.5 lbs and a splitter profile( getting wider quickly from the edge) After cleaning I took the wide portion and feathered it back from the edge about 1 inch and took some of the steepness down about an eighth of an inch. This dropped the weight down to 3lbs. It is still a good splitter and now has a slightly thinner profile further away from the edge. I hung ot on a 23 inch handle. Now it's a good all around pack axe and works well with my folding saw for me. I seem to find myself watching more of your vids. Your sense of haha and still getting good and sensible info out works for me. Thanks
Great vid! My middle of the road: my 13 inch blade khukri with over 1 cm blade stock. Carving I do with my knives. So an axe should be a good splitter for me...
That was great!! Thank you. I've been looking at axes and what I need and that was so helpful. I have one at home for sitting wood for the fireplace and 2 others I don't use and nor would I ever hike in someplace with them. Thank you!
He's wearing a flannel shirt. Instant credibility
Sweet
Thank you
Don't forget the beard which authenticates the flannels source material.
I keep my "survival" axe in the survival toolbox in the bed of my survival truck parked in my survival garage.
Haha! I think you will survive!
Careful man pm101 might rob you. He is obsessed with hoarding survival s***.
Damn that’s next level survival.
On your survival property in your survival community. If you are going to beat a dead horse you may as well get some hide, meat and bone out of it.
Ha hahaha what if youre not in youre truck? What if your outta town. Dude u screded.
Years ago I read the novel “Danger West” and a company was hiring to create a trail through a stream bottom. The interview was to tell the candidates to choose an axe in a hardware store. Those that got hired were the ones that asked if they could bring their personal axes.
That's a good way to hire capable people, and an even better way to save tool cost for the contractor
@@Piekosz518 Or to hire the people too timid to raise a stink when you work 'em to death.
So, they hired gullible fools with egos. It’s the duty of the employer to provide all tools. Time this got codified.
@@talisikid1618 not so, those that got hired were those that knew that slight differences in weight, length and balance make a difference when working in tight spaces.
@@talisikid1618 don’t think you understand the point
I recently went canoe camping for the first time with friends in Algonquin and everyone chuckled when they saw me bring my full length axe (Cold Steel Trail Boss) because we already had a folding saw and hatchets. Buuuuuuuut lo and behold, the bulk of viable wood we found were relatively wide diameter trees. With the rain, we needed a hot, slow burning fire and plenty of fuel.
Fortunately, my axe did what their hatchets could not do easily: blast through thick logs like nothing. The long handle makes it a bit awkward for fine detailed work, but it did just fine making shavings. It holds an edge really well and is easy to sharpen with a simple sharpening stone (brought that too just in case). Used it to hammer our new tent stakes too and made a few wedges with it to split a particularly resistant log.
The full axe is relatively light and honestly it straps on pretty easily. The most important thing I think regarding axes is learning how to actually use them and being confident about the swing. I cringe when I see someone about to take a huge swing and I see, just inches away, a large stone in the ground. Like bro, just cut it AWAY from the rock! Little things like that make a difference between a good axe-user and a dangerous one. While the full length axe is more cumbersome than a hatchet or shorter handle axe, I find one simple truth: the large axe can do pretty much everything a small axe can, but a small axe cannot do everything a large axe can.
Great videos! Subbed :)
Underrated comment!
I WHOLEHEARTEDLY agree. If i'm just visiting, or only staying a short time, I at least want something about the size of a SFA (mine is a merit mark boys axe head on about an 18-19" handle)
My real axe is a Kelly perfect jersey hung on a 32". Holy crap that is an axe. Even when I hunt and hike and have NO intention on processing a single stick, I carry a hatchet. A few years after starting that, I keep being surprised how much I use it AND how it is almost equal to a knife for processing game. I like it so much that it lives full time in the kitchen...
@@mattfleming86 I just restores a felling axe , possibly a True Temper. It weighs 6 pounds and has a 36” handle. It pretty much is my do anything and everything axe
@@davidvines6498 Great choice. Does it have the little "ribs" inside the eye? That's almost a dead giveaway. Kelly True Temper made MANY house brands. My favorite Kelly is labeled Belknap Bluegrass... which is cool for me because my late Grandpa used to collect the stuff. It's about a 3.5 lb jersey, thin bit, and I think it hung about 31" or so. It's worth the weight. Splits really good for a felling axe. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I have enjoyed mine.
@@mattfleming86 yes one double bit thats Red has the ridges inside. I was told it’s a Woodslasher, another double bit is a True Temper Kelly Perfect. It’s stamped into the axe with the number 3. It has the bevels like the felling axe
The Alton Brown of bushcraft. So glad I have found this channel. This is helping get my 8 year old son involved
Now I wanna see these two go on a camping trip and make a meal over a fire.
👌🏼😂
with axes??
I'm a 58 year old homemaker, grandma, and love your instructional videos. I just learned about axes here for the first time in my life. Although I've split plenty of wood in my 20's and 30's, bearing and raising 6 children in a 1700 year old homestead, I never really had anyone critique my tools. They were already very old tools we would pick up at auctions during the 80's. They worked then, and now still, super well. Dependable, quality work horse tools. But to watch you detail - talk about tools is a new thing for me. And if I bought new tools, would definitely be details that I'd keep in mind. I'm in the mountains now, no longer on the homestead. I'm also far north in PA now also where winters are snowy and cold which I love. State forest surrounds my property. Black bears are my neighbors. We enjoy a slower pace life now, but really enjoy learning survival skills from your channel. Chopping wood is 9 months of the year's work here. We have a splitting maul for big stove firewood, and hatchet and hammer for small stove firewood, and sledge hammer and wedges for big snarly chunks and we bring dying and dead trees down with a chainsaw. My husband and I grew up in the outdoors and the woods and the streams every day of our lives, as kids growing up in the '60s and seventies you weren't allowed to be in the house your mother kicked you out so we literally spent all the seasons outside, even winter and in blizzards, and we had a great time! Truth! Life was good then. Life outdoors back then was safer for kids. So we could be over mile away from home as long as we were home for supper didn't matter where we were. It was like Little House on the Prairie days, I even walked a mile to school back then and back home all by myself, from age 5 years old and up. Now parents can't even let their kid out in the front yard by themselves without watching like a hawk cuz somebody could take them. So yes we agree with you get outside, play in the woods, walk in the woods explore the woods.. take it all in.. breathe the woods air and listen to the sounds everybody! 👍 Take care everyone.
Axe safety, axe-orientated ifak, injuries through tiredness from a too-heavy axe, stance, footwear, axe- maintenance, technique. Almost a whole channel bin itself right there. Thanks 👍
I agree of fatigue/use of tools/perfect form.
Sounds like giving up of sorts, but if losing form, rest those muscle groups and dig into another task ya know you've to do and come back. It's not loss of time for the most part as said. Heck, the fun of chopping may even return with the rested muscle group.
Yeah, Henry Ford did a job for a production line, but since you mentioned, I wonder how many injuries happened due to fatigue.
lol, once upon while stacking two face cords dumped by some clown missing the mark and hit my driveway(winter).
I walked away and tried to make a rock/stone carin (stack) out in the yard as art. I came back to the wood stacking with song in heart 'n head. Funny how some chit as works, if life isn't really on the line.
~~~ dayum squirrels/robins liked the rock stack. fook dat. (-:
Great class! I'm 66 years old and have 7 various axes and I still fumble through the finding the right ax for the job. Not any more. Thanks Dan!
I use an old roofers hatchet from the 1950’s. It’s never failed me.
I just came across an old head for one I'd forgotten about. I think I'll fix it up with a longer handle for a gp camp axe.
We call them carpenter hatchets here.
Tyler Boliver I’m not there. I’m here. TOE MAY TOE, TOE MAH TOE. 😐
I just found a carpenter's axe last week. Got it razor sharp now with my kme axe sharpener. It's perfect now
Dual purpose too: Assume you're in a position of having to make a shelter?
You can now make shingles for your roof too
I really like watching this guy. Humorous while giving valuable information. So enjoyable! 🙂
Just looking at all the different patterns of axes (past and present) should be a clue that no single axe is going to excel at every task. Most, if not all can be used beyond the specific intent of their design, but at some cost of efficiency, ergonomics, control, precision, etc. Great info Dan, thanks!
I find carpenters axe works pretty well as long as you keep in mind what tree your hacking at. Yeah it can cost work for bigger trees but it can be done... or pick a different tree. And! lets face it, most people carry a knife of some sort with them too. If you knife is anywhere near worth it you should be able to baton out some firewood too. The axe doesn't have to do all the splitting.
MmmmMm@@defechan7486 m
Litterly
This has got to be the best simplified "explanation" video on axes. It goes into the what, why and when of axes. I learned more here than at a survival class where they were trying to tell us that we all needed the same axe, theirs!
Thank You! And I just subscribed!
Thanks for a very informative video. You're a naturally good teacher, who knows hold the attention of the student. Be well & safe. Cheers.
CCB, you have a good manner about you and a good teaching style. I appreciate you.
Articulate, experienced, genuine - - - you're doing a fine job, Dan! 🤠
You just answered a lot of questions I've recently had - brilliant vid, sir.
You have a true gift for explaining things in ways we can all understand. Thanks a lot - much appreciated…
Love my Estwing 26” axe. Comfortable and indestructible.
I’ve had the same estwing for years and I’ve beat the crap out of it. Love that thing
Dan , I'm a recent subscriber, and I have to tell you...I like your video's more and more all the time...informative, humorous, all without being condescending or egotistic. Thank you. You covered handle length, bit or head weight, and bit thickness, One thing you did not cover is axe head style. tomahawk, hatchet, felling, splitting, double bit, tactical, as what is best or more practical overall for "bushcraft" . thanks again.
The axe head is going to determine a lot, I would recommend a forest axe. But it does depend on what exactly you are doing, you might need/want the size of a hatchet, but then be limited on what you can do. you may want a felling axe, but then have to lug that thing around, and be limited on what you can do. a 15-20inch forest axe is a good compromise of size, and weight, its not too small to do larger jobs, and its not too big to do finer carving. A forest axe, is not that different from a carpenters axe. and IMO the best choice for bush crafting, but everyone is different...Hatchets are nice...you might be 8 feet tall and think a firemans axe is perfect.....but you probably want a 15-20in forest axe if you are looking for an axe that's not too big, not too small, and heavy enough to get things done
Really enjoyed this video man, you’re not arrogant or cocky. It made listening to you educational and enjoyable, thanks man.
Man your brutal truth is awesome! You come across as helpful, almost agitated to push back against dumb questions, but at the same time just being genuine and helpful.. you rock $500 Filson jackets over $15 Harbor Freight pants… that’s awesome. Most ‘tubers get famous and drop all of their “old” equipment in favor of the new “coolness” that ether given to them In exchange for being a shill… I leave those channels about that time… great job brother, keep it up! 🇺🇸
What great timing for this video! I was just gonna axe you about this subject.
As a dad I approve this comment.
🤣
Beat me to it ! 😂
Erik Deran I hope you axeually got a handle on the subject..
@@umutkarakurt6017 I don't always tell dad jokes but he always laughs when I do!
I recently started watching your videos. I like the way you simply and understandably explain things without talking down to people or making people feel stupid. Your videos are very informative and direct. Thank you.
Great summary on axes. Touched on everything I thought about when getting my first "bushcraft" (utility) axe.
One thing I did as a newbie was to get a bit longer of a handle to make some of the camp chores a bit safer. I believe its a 23 inch. I want to downsize to about a 19-21 inch but just have not got there yet. You are making me think about going smaller now but I might just "need" to get a secondary trappers hatchet or something haha.
As a personal choice I had to make sure it was a Hudson Bay style axehead as well. I like the aesthetics more and if you don't like your axe you will use it less. Also I like how the shape lets me choke up for finer tasks. Not sure if that curvature is made specifically to enable choking up but it sure seems like it is.
No harm having multiple tools. At home I have a maul for splitting firewood and a hatchet for a do all of sorts that works well for everything I use it for from putting points on sticks to splitting firewood into kindling. I wouldn’t want to be splitting a night’s supply of firewood with it though, need that maul for that. A friend moved and gave me a couple aces he was leaving behind but I have yet to use them for anything. I would guess a machete would get used more in my area than an axe would, not that there aren’t roles for axes just that an axe isn’t the best tool for carving a trail through dense undergrowth of shrubs, saplings and briars.
You and Dave Canterbury are my go to Bushcrafters. I really enjoy your humor, knowledge and tutorials.
great video! One thing that can also play a role in deciding, is the weather. Most of the year i get by with either a hawk or a boys axe. But with where I live, in winter i carry a much more substantial axe. 6lb head on a 36 inch handle to deal with frozen trees and a 30 inch bow saw. For anyone wondering why such a beast of an axe, I've seen axes bounce off of frozen trees. So you want it heavy, and VERY sharp to bite into frozen wood. Just a tip from a northern woodscrafter. have a great day you all!
i'm impressed how spontaneous your vids are. i believe these tips are mandatory viewing for every survivalist, and you make it fun and engaging.
Taking your comments to heart, I’m looking for a for efficient fire prep as the first priority. Second is emergency shelter construction. Third is camp/cabin building. Emphasis is on efficiency first and portability second. My current choice (not purchased yet) is 2.5 lbs overall with 1.6 pounds of that being the head. The cutting edge is 3.25” and handle length is 23” total. The bit seems designed to help split but also has decent bite with a thin or narrow wedge profile. It generally is an all-around good compromise on paper. My pack has side pockets with “pass through” behind them. Straps top and bottom make it a great home for an axe of this size. Hoping to pick it up this summer and get some practice in with it
As another woodsman the videos I've watch are common sense and very informative
Love and Power to the working class! We need to be teaching this and other useful skills in schools.
The video quality is unbelievably good! And the content was really good too.
Ok, so I know you were mostly talking about backpacking. Since I am mostly out overlanding in my Jeep, I carry 3 axes. 1 hatchet for small work and tent pegs. 1 medium 24" handle with a fine thin 2 lb head for shaving feather sticks. 1 large 3.5 lb head 34" handle for splitting and chopping wood. Again only because I have a vehicle to carry them for me, I bring them all and usually use all 3 when making camp.
Thee BEST and most BASIC (in a good way) axe video on RUclips. You’ve totally helped me out. I’m going for a 19inch! Cheers my man!
I have 4 main axes I just love and use all the time. My hatchet is a Snow & Nealley Outdoorsman belt axe and is great for out elk hunting and day trips. My Council Tool Woodcraft pack axe 24" is my most utility axe by far and is always on my backpack for excursions and I use it in the wood pile quite often. Next is my 3.5lb Our best from Snow & Neally with 30" handle. This is my truck axe and chainsaw companion axe. Last is my Council Tool 6lb Dayton that I use only for spitting rounds. As you may have noticed, only American made for me. The S & N do require a good sharpening out of the box, but I enjoy honing an edge to my liking. All fit different needs and all work really well when taken care of.
Its been a real joy to find your outstanding presentation on this subject!
Your experience, expertise and clear, credible and concise analysis shone through and I was hugely impressed how you explained that only the user can determine which tool will be the best for them, and to ignore those that say, "this is the best hatchet/axe for you and is all you'll need".
I read and watched multiple sources of information but my decision what to buy was arrived at after seeing just what the tool could accomplish in the hands of an expert and them explaining how he got the best from the tool (obviously, having the tool the expert used with phenomenal success does not accord me those same skills!).
Old Jimbo showed what could be achieved with a GB Mini Hatchet (the tool I was interested in) and I ordered one.
At first sight and handling I felt that this was perfect for my intended usage, something that no reviews, photos or videos could do (the videos could show what it could do, not whether it was right for me!).
In time I've added a GB Wildlife Hatchet, and years later a GB Small Forest Axe (and a GB Neck Knife).
Developing an understanding and appreciation of hatchets and axes took time and has been enjoyable and beneficial.
Your presentation helps viewers to do so. Subdcribed.
The best advice delivered with enthusiasm and character. 👍🏻
When I was first shopping for a camping axe, someone told me either get a hatchet or go full length - if you miss, those full-length handles will be more likely to put the bit into the dirt than your shins.
@some goon Yes - this is what I learned as well.
I custom hung my own axe, 2lb head on a 25" handle, my primary use is fire making and shelter building with a secondary use of harvesting material for other primitive tool making, works perfectly for me, never step into the woods without it, long enough to chop, light enough to carry.
I have similar needs and am a smaller guy i use a ray mears axe forget the model but one he made with 24 inch handle and .8 kg head
@@superdave6415wilderness axe.
I really love how educational your page is great for any person wanting to start their own bushcraft hobby. Thank you
I really appreciate how you explain things, thoughtful with no BS! Count me subscribed!
This was actually very helpful, it completely changed my perspective on what I should truly get. Granted there will be some level of trial and error but this truly minimized it.
In my younger days I learned most of this stuff by trial and error especially trying to split wood with the wrong axe! This video is 100% on point, and the best one I've seen regarding all aspects of axe craft for beginners and experienced folks alike thanks and keep up the great work.
some people disregard the tomahawk as a tool for cutting and chopping. it wasnt just a weapon or anything like that. if i were to get an axe, it would be a grandfors bruks or a crkt woods chogan, cause i wouldnt need to have a huge honkin thing of an axe to do any kind of big tasks if it's just me myself and i. or me with a friend. here in indiana we have some pretty decent sized trees but i wouldnt go out of my way to chop down a dead standing monster for just one camp night. the more i think bout it, the more i lean to the tomahawk cause of the fact that you can replace the handle in the field should something happen, but you cant with the grandfors. good video and im lucky to have come across this video, thank you :D
I personally respect Estwing's axes as survival tools. They're quite heavy and they're not the best performers overall, but they're reasonably priced and their dependability has been proven on more than one occasion. Thank you for the great video.
Hey brother...watched this video again. Axe or hatchet. Two handed axe. One handed hatchet. Yes I'm a collector of fine steel. I have hewing axes, splitting axes as well as roofing hatchets and hewing hatchets. I'm a big fan of Plumb steel. I use a different sharpening method in my shop. But your "in the field" demonstration is nice. I'll have to find myself a small stone like you're using. Very good video.
OG coalcracker here.Very informative in a clear and concise manner. You are a very good teacher! Continue to wish the best for you and your family.
Went camping the other day. I always bring a bolo and knife but that day i also brought a constrution axe with crowbar on top and hammer on the other end. Man never thought that i will use that axe way more than the other and i loved using it. I'm now planning to buy a proper axe for my needs that's why I'm here. Thanks the advice.
I have to say this is the best video i have ever watched & learned something from
VERY VERY informative for a nubie like myself. Thank you for the insight. ...Alan (in Texas)
My go-to is a tomahawk. The one I'm currently toting is a Cold Steel pipe-hawk. I love it. Modify the handle to your liking and a tomahawk is a very versatile axe type tool.
Really well researched and communicated vid. One of the best "axe" vids I've seen, because "No product" fits all.
You are a fantastic communicator/teacher.
Awesome basic 101 explanation in a clear and understandable format.
I love hearing the UP call out. Such beautiful territory.
Maine wedge(E&S), 2.5lbs and 28" skinny handle. I love that thing. I also carry a light hawk for fine fire prep, clearing brush and crafting.
Love your simple and straightforward explanations
Nicely done! I say own every Axe you can afford!
Like your three categories. The categories not only help with selecting an axe, but also deciding what sharpening gear to carry
Thanks!
I'm subscribing because the man talks sense, is entertaining and NEVER once in my experience mentions an influencer page or Patreon or like myself, sometimes asks for viewers to buy me a beer (if they can and if they think my effort is worth it). You have integrity, you're honest in your videos and seem genuine. Something sadly lacking nowadays in a lot of the BIG subscriber channels.
Thanks. I was research from an EDC/ multipurpose perspective. This helps.
Great advice, Dan.. Lots of choices and opinions in the ax world. Stay safe and stay warm.
Nice , never really thought about an ax and there different uses . I lived in the mountains at 9,000 feet for 34 years and heated our house with wood and would go through about 6 to 8 cords a year and got real good at wood processing for heating the house . Big heavy splitting maul was the ticket but when we camped it was not the best option so I ended up with something similar to your all purpose ax and know have 3 axes and use them accordingly. So I guess now that I think about it they do serve different purposes and your absolutely right they become very personal and if you take care of them they last a long time . Thanks for the video
Happy Trails
I personally carry the cold steel pipe hawk. Light weight breaks down if needed most of what i do is light fire wood processing (no bigger than my wrist ideally) and care camp cooking items such as spatula works good for me
I'm the everything category. I use two Council Tool Axes, the Flying Fox on a 21" haft and Camp Carver on a 22" haft. They both weigh around 2 pounds each. One Convex and the other a Flat grind, cover just about any scenario. And I don't typically tackle anything bigger than 10" around.
And aswell long handled axes are safer.. They go in the ground when you miss... the shorter ones will go in your legs ;). Very nice video
Hey, this is the greatest video on axes I have seen. I have never been a fan of axes since I never really used them or I used one for an inappropriate task and it was too heavy so it didn't feel right. After this video it made me rethink axes quite a bit. Thanks.
I wish I would have watched this when it posted. That said I've purchased several axes over the years and my go to is the Hults-Bruk Torneo Felling axe. Not great for really small or really large tasks but a nice all round useful tool for the kinds of things I do in the Michigan woodlands.
Very very good video, I'm kinda new to this stuff just bought a new axe , felt I needed something fairly robust yet middle of the road,so got a nice 4lb head with a longer handle,30 something in. Luv it !! Thanks again for your insights friend!
Excellent explanation of a seemingly easy subject. I learnt a lot. Thanks.
Excellent video. The other thing I’d mention to consider would be how we are travelling. Are we hiking? Canoeing? A short to mid size handle, lighter weight head would be best. If I’m on the atv or in a side by side, I can take a bigger, heavier axe…or even a couple of axes! Weight isn’t as much of an issue.
Thanks Dan! I bought my GB Wildlife without knowing to consider any of this.. but after watching this awesome explanation, it seems I chose well and now I know why. Great vid!
Just get 6 or 7 or a few more and one will be your favorite. And sometimes one of the others is needed and you go , wow, I’m Glad I got this extra ax !
Thank you Thank You .. omg I have learned more in 12:21 then any other video ive seen to date !! Brother your the best man !!!
Took me for ever to find this explanation omg he's a hero
I'm looking into the Estwing, full tang axe. Seems the best deal concerning survival. No worry of the handle snapping like wood can.
I have small (14”? I think?) and medium (20-22”-ish) Estwing camp axes, and small and large Fiskar’s splitting axes. They do all I could ever ask them to, didn’t cost so much that I’m afraid to use them hard, are all nearly indestructible, and will all take and retain a VERY sharp edge. All make decent hammers, too. They’re all in the extended cab of my truck in my camp gear box, but I’ll take one or two with me if I’m backpacking, kayak/bike camping, etc.
If I had to choose just one, I think it’d be the larger Estwing. It does everything reasonably well, and doesn’t totally suck at anything. That big (like 36”+) Fiskar’s splitting axe is the most amazing firewood splitting tool I’ve ever used by a mile, and I’ve used them all. Hard, gnarled, knotty, eastern US hardwoods fly apart effortlessly, it just blows my mind. I have a huge old maul that I’ll get out for the most ridiculously twisted stuff, but these days I generally just use those pieces as center-of-the-fire all weekend pieces rather than killing myself trying to split them.
I am more of a beginner to camping and bush craft. I first got a swiss army surplus hatchet, then later got a cold steel tomahawk. When I go out on a trail to camp, I have found that I do not need a hatchet nearly as much as my knife, saw, and shovel. I use the shovel for digging a fire pit and prep camp site by digging up briers. I had to sharpen my hawk a lot before it was worth using. My main use for it is to debranch limbs, and maybe baton and make stakes. I also like using the back to hammer stakes.
Great video! Love seeing you getting pumped to go play with axes in the woods.
Thank you much for this video. I watched you earlier about making a Glut, to split apart a large log using only an Axe. I wondered which axe you were using. Thanks again.
Very informative and well spoken ,thanks. You're a wealth of knowledge.
I'm probably about to catch all kinds of flack. I actually have a "half hatchet" that was my grandpa's. It's been mine for over 35 years now and I don't camp without it. I keep it sharp enough to shave with and HONE it lightly after each day of use. I also wrap the head in oil paper if it's not going to be used for a week or more. I also made the 13 3/4 in handle out of cypress. I know, odd choice of wood but I like the feel, besides the fact that I was in the woods when the old handle split due to misuse on my part. Didn't want to make it out of pine, so cypress won. Been on for about 10 yrs now..Great video.
Reminds me of that old joke: "This was my great-grandfather's axe; we've replace the handle three times, and the head twice."
Most certainly helped me to decide on the ax that best suits my needs. Great explanation of the ax itself. Really appreciate all these video gems. Totally upping my bushcraft game !!!!
Got a knew subscriber 👍
My wild is the Arizona desert. Really cool learning from the temperate woodland guys.
As someone who appreciates utility, my personal choice is the CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk for a good all together utility axe design. I have used it to do everything from making curls for feathersticks, to dropping trees 6" or more and bucking them down to rounds for splitting. I also have a saw for that reason, but I wanted an axe that could do that as well if the saw ever broke. It's also a hand tool for scraping hides and other tasks as well as having a purpose built hammer poll for driving stakes, nails, and pegs. It has a 19" Tennessee Hickory handle that I intend to replace myself soon with some good hand picked 24" red or white oak. It has just over a 2lb head which helps in driving it into hard woods when splitting them out for firewood. It's also exceptionally well balanced currently for throwing which I greatly enjoy as a camp game along with knife throwing. There's certainly no "one to rule them all" axe out there for everyone, some people can just go to any local hardware store and pick up a basic axe like Husqvarna or Husky or Kobalt and be just fine and happily satisfied. Some people will have to get a custom length axe with a custom weight head and particular design profile and so much more. I say to each their own, I know what I like and what works for me. Someone else may not support the CRKT brand or have access to their products so they have to get what they can to start with. The one thing that never changes though is axe safety protocols. Axe are dangerous tools that can do a lot of damage to both hard material like bone and soft tissue like skin and muscle. Regardless of axe design, always maintain awareness when using any sharp and heavy tool.
You used a lot of terms consider; Force=mass x acceleration therefor the longer handle creates more acceleration. The head weight increases mass. I hope this helps. Great video!
Tomahawk does a little bit of everything for me, the hammer on the backside is a bonus for hammering in stakes, breaking rocks, killing attacking predators, whatever I happen to be up to. Ultimately, it's just a fun option. A broken handle is easier to replace in a pinch in the woods as well, so there's that.
This was actually a great breakdown on what to think about when you're buying an axe: what is it going to be used for! Great video!
As always, great break down. I went with the Snow & Nealley camp axe. Made in the USA, 24 inch, general purpose axe. Not to heavy, not to long, works great! I did have to spend some time getting the edge right. Ok out of the box but not to that "be careful with that" sharpness.
Good advise on axes. Myself I have an axe that was bought in a batch of broken handled axes for $10 dollars at a yard sale. Most of the axes were paper weights. Except for 1. It had a weight of 3.5 lbs and a splitter profile( getting wider quickly from the edge) After cleaning I took the wide portion and feathered it back from the edge about 1 inch and took some of the steepness down about an eighth of an inch. This dropped the weight down to 3lbs. It is still a good splitter and now has a slightly thinner profile further away from the edge. I hung ot on a 23 inch handle. Now it's a good all around pack axe and works well with my folding saw for me. I seem to find myself watching more of your vids. Your sense of haha and still getting good and sensible info out works for me. Thanks
Great beginner's guide for sure, Dan. Thank you.
Thanks for making this Dan, very helpful!
Great info! The best info is to know how to use any ax you have to use!
Great vid!
My middle of the road: my 13 inch blade khukri with over 1 cm blade stock.
Carving I do with my knives.
So an axe should be a good splitter for me...
That was great!! Thank you. I've been looking at axes and what I need and that was so helpful. I have one at home for sitting wood for the fireplace and 2 others I don't use and nor would I ever hike in someplace with them. Thank you!
I bought an ax that felt comfortable
Thank you for the affirmation
That was both entertaining and really educational. Thanks !
Thanks Tons Dan! I learned a whole lot. I like your smaller axis. Hopefully I can find 1 like that.
Love how all the axes are gransfors bruk. Amazing axes. Pricey, but so worth it!
You should have your own survival show on tv you know a lot and I learn from you thanx