How to Choose a Camping Axe
The range of axes is vast, and the main task is to find a balance between weight and functionality. An axe that is too large will be a burden to carry, while one that is too small will be less effective and safe to use.
Size and Weight
A common piece of advice is that when you stand the axe on the ground with the handle parallel to your outstretched arm, the head should reach your armpit. However, such a tool might seem cumbersome. A compact hatchet weighing 500–1000 grams is considered a universal choice for camping. It won't fell a large tree, but it excels at gathering kindling for a campfire. Remember: the smaller the axe, the higher the risk of injury, as the blade is closer to your hands.
Blade Profile: Which is Best?
The blade is the primary working part. There are three main profile types, each with its own strengths:
• Convex: Ideal for splitting logs. However, a strongly convex profile prevents the blade from biting deeply into wood, requiring more effort.
• Concave: Excellent for chopping off branches. The downside is that a deeply concave blade can be difficult to extract from a deep cut.
• Flat: Does not slip off the surface, making it the best choice for carpentry work, such as building a shelter.
The shape of the cutting edge is also crucial:
• Rounded: Resembles a knife's point. It penetrates wood easily and deeply, providing a clean cut. This type of axe is preferable for most camping tasks.
• Straight: Less versatile for field use.
The most practical option is often a "half-axe" or a small forest axe with a slightly concave blade and a rounded cutting edge.
The Art of Sharpening: Restoring the Edge
A dull axe is nothing more than a useless weight. Only a sharp blade will be your reliable helper. The sharpening process is similar to that for a knife, with one key difference: you move the sharpening stone, not the axe itself. This is a fundamental safety rule.
Important! Always secure the axe firmly in place (on a workbench or, when camping, on a log). Never rest it on your knees—this is dangerous due to the proximity of major arteries. Always wear gloves.
For proper sharpening, you may need a set of tools: a file, a diamond file, and a dual-sided sharpening stone (with coarse and fine grit). The process consists of four steps:
1. Profiling (Coarse Grinding). Used if the blade has nicks or chips. Move the file away from you along the cutting edge at a 45° angle. Work both sides equally until you remove all damage. Do not overuse this procedure, as it removes a significant amount of metal.
2. Fine Sharpening. Take a diamond file and repeat the same motions, but this time towards yourself. This step can be skipped if the blade is in good condition.
3. Honing. Moisten the coarse side of the sharpening stone. Using gentle, circular, clockwise motions (left to right), work on the blade. Do not wipe away the metal dust (swarf)—it aids in the process. Flip the axe over and repeat on the other side. Continue until the blade is sharp.
4. Polishing (Final Stropping). Use the fine-grit side of the stone. Make circular counter-clockwise motions (right to left) to remove the micro-burr and achieve a razor-sharp edge.
Safety and Proper Storage
Using the Axe:
• Choose Your Site: Ensure no one is nearby and there are no overhanging branches above you. You need ample space for a clear, unimpeded swing.
• Use the Right Tool for the Job: Do not try to chop thick logs (over 8 cm in diameter) with a small hatchet—a saw is better suited for this.
• Dress Appropriately: Avoid long, loose clothing. Wear sturdy boots.
• Inspect Your Tool: Make sure the handle is not damaged and the head is securely fastened.
• Proper Chopping Technique: Hold the branch you are processing with your free hand yourself (don't ask someone else to do it!). Place it on a solid base (like a tree stump). Don't chop at a right angle; instead, make V-shaped notches at 45-degree angles from both sides.
• Take Breaks: Fatigue is a primary cause of accidents.
Carrying and Storage:
• On the Trail: Carry the axe with the poll under your arm, blade facing down. This way, if you fall, it will stick into the ground.
• Handing Over: When passing the axe to someone, stand beside them, facing the same direction, and pass it poll-first. • In Camp: Never leave an axe lying on the ground. Stick it into a log or lean it against a tree with the poll down. The ideal solution is to store it in a dedicated equipment tent.
• Using a Sheath: Even in a leather sheath, a sharp axe can cut through it, so always handle with care.
• Long-Term Storage: Store the axe in a dry, cool place. Before storing it away, wipe the blade completely dry and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
Pro Tip: To improve your striking accuracy, practice at home. Mark a line on a log with chalk and practice striking it with the blade. And when chopping wood, don't throw away the wood chips—they are perfect for starting a campfire.
When handled correctly, this tool will become your reliable friend, helping you set up a comfortable and cozy camp on any journey.
Next guide: A Saw on a Camping Trip: Selection, Use, and Care Previous guide: How to Choose, Use, and Maintain a Camping Knife You can view the full list here: Survival Guides for the Mountains
