Bushcraft axes: compact axes for all your bushcraft activities

Features of bushcraft axes

These axes are generally compact, making it easy to carry them inside your backpack or attached to any MOLLE webbing. Still, bushcraft axes pack enough power to split wood or fell a small tree. Thanks to the ergonomically-shaped handles you can use your bushcraft axe for hours at a time without fatigue. Oftentimes, the handles are made of wood. This allows you to replace the handle even when you're out in nature, if necessary. Another fun bushcraft project!

How to choose the best bushcraft axe

When you're choosing a bushcraft axe, it makes sense to consider the tasks you're planning to carry out most often. Will you be felling trees for a shelter? Or splitting wood for the campfire in cold climates? You're probably looking for an axe with a longer handle, think 60 cm or longer. This will increase the power of impact, and a slightly heavier axe head will contribute to this as well. If you are looking for an axe to do some woodworking, or to make kindling, we recommend choosing a smaller axe of approx. 40 cm. A smaller axe is easier to carry and easier to use for precision work. If you plan to use the axe for both purposes, we recommend choosing a happy medium at approx. 50 cm in handle length.

How do I maintain my bushcraft axe?

Maintenance is key if you want to enjoy your new axe for a long time. It's important to apply a coat of oil to a wooden handle every once in a while. Most axe heads are made from carbon steel, which means they're very strong, but not very corrosion resistant. Make sure the axe head is dry before you store it, and you can also apply some ballistol oil the axe head from time to time. Sharpening an axe is a little different than sharpening a knife. Learn more about this by reading our topic; how to maintain your axe.