Best Type of Axe

Hi all,

I'm slowly building my off-road gear and looking at getting a Fiskars axe. But I'm wondering if a chopping blade is better than a splitting blade. The X15 is what caught my eye, as it's not too bulky but could also be used for heavy applications if needed. (https://www.fiskars.com/en-us/garde...and-machetes/x15-chopping-axe-235-378571-1004)

Any other recommendations/companies/models I should look at?

Thanks!

 

I have an x25. It doesn't get a lot of use but it's well made and is holding up great so far.

Others may disagree with me but I have no plans on chopping down anything big. I would prefer a saw for that anyway. Splitting is my preferred.

Also you should consider getting a maul instead of an axe. I can think of all kinds ways to abuse a mini sledgehammer when off road.

 

I recently purchased a Fiskars 14" hatchet to leave in the truck all the time. I have a full size ax I throw in the truck when I go camping. I haven't used the Fiskars hatchet yet but it feels great in the hand and seems well built. I have a bow saw also that will rip through wood.

 

Get something that chops, a splitting axe won't help much getting through a downed tree. But not something expensive cuz you might be chopping in the dirt. Look at it as an all around tool not just for cutting trees.

 

A saw is far more useful for recovery in most circumstances.

 

I've been an Estwing fan since college. It's my go-to for a quality camp tool. Ive broken a lot of hammers and Axes over the years from doing stupid stuff, but never one from that brand.

26" Camper's axe for light chopping, "Fireside friend" for light splitting. Rock hammer for pinning/pulling stakes, and also for finding interesting rocks.

Saw for moderate woodwork.

 

I own and love that same eastwing 26 inch axe, it lives in my truck and I've used it many times cleaning up trees. I do bring my full size double bit on camping trips though.

 

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I had a little Estwing I put to good use a handful of times but the mud eventually ruined the nice glazed leather handle and it started to rust in the tang, replaced it with a similarly sized Fiskars with nice parkerizing and a synthetic handle and have been quite satisfied with it.

A folding or bow saw is better for limbing though.

If you know, or there's a very real probability you're going to be encountering downed trees and no way to turn around nothing beats a little gas chainsaw.

 

Yes, Michael go with the Fiskars. I own many products made by them (scissors, machete's, etc.) & still do. If you find one made in Finland, that's the best quality. Just don't go chopping rocks with it, lol

 

With the low cost of battery powered chain saws all you really need is a 24" splitting axe. I've had the same Fiskars in my past 3 trucks.

 

A Silky saw and a splitting axe will handle most jobs.

 

I agree with this ^. Chopping axe for downed trees, splitting axe for making firewood.

But a saw in most cases probably is faster and easier.

I have the same axe you listed and it has been great.

 

I have a few axes. I love my traditional, wood handled axes (Husqvarna and Council Tool); however, From Fiskars, I own an X25 and the 1001 28-inch chopping axe. I recently acquired the 28-inch chopping axe through Tractor Supply and haven't used it much. The X25 is very versatile. It is not a heavy splitting maul, and it can be used for chopping. I use it for limbing trees, barking, splitting, and light chopping. They are easy to sharpen. And a packable bow saw, or folding saw and you will have some good tools. I have a folding saw and a 21-inch Sven Saw. Once you get used to the Sven, it is a great tool. My .02.

 

Another +1 for the 26" Camper's Axe from Estwing.

Oh, and the Council Tool Boy's Axe

 

Just bought this because it's made USA and black. Should do the job, if I ever use it.

 

Synthetic handled Fiskars axe is not a bad choice for just in case use. When I go out for a load of firewood, I bring a Gransfors Bruks axe.

 

Axes are only useful for cutting down trees and splitting firewood. Use a chainsaw or bow saw for everything else.

 

I just got my conservationist axe in purple with a 27” handle with guard and wow its the nicest one i have ever seen or owned!

 

+1 silky saw and fiskars ax