Axe/Hatchet:
The axe/hatchet has been around for millions of years, from the days when early man realised through intelligent thought, and some ingenuity, that they could attach a sharp stone to a stick. This particular category of tools come in many shapes and sizes, from small belt hatchets weighing only a pound or so, to much larger, heavier tools weighing a couple of kiliogrammes. Blade shapes come in too many variations for me to mention, with single 'bit' and double 'bit' heads. In my mind, there are three absolutes: 1) The axe/hatchet is an indespensible tool for longer term woodland excursions. 2) The tool in all its forms is exceptionally dangerous, and many would agree the smaller the axe/hatchet, the increased liklihood of injury. 3) There will always be argument and debate over which one is 'best'!
I do not intend to show here all the different shapes and sizes, or to try and influence anyone over which is the 'best'. All I want to do here is show you the hatchet that I use and maybe explain a few things about why it works for me.
I do not intend to show here all the different shapes and sizes, or to try and influence anyone over which is the 'best'. All I want to do here is show you the hatchet that I use and maybe explain a few things about why it works for me.
The Husqvarna Hatchet:
Swedish made axes and hatchets are a Bushcrafters staple. Gransfors Bruks being probably the most commonly heard of brand, particulalry because of a certain TV presenters endorsement of what is ultimately, a very fine product indeed! There are other options however, such as Wetterlings for example, but my experience has shown these to be very pricey indeed. But these things dont have to be quite so expensive to achieve very high standards. One particular brand, and the one that I have gone for as my hatchet of choice, is from Husqvarna. Delivered to me for a price of just £35 including shipping and handling, I have what I feel is a hatchet that comes razor sharp, holds a good edge, doesnt need much maintenance and looks every bit the same as a GB. What it didnt come with was a great sheath, thats a bit of a downfall, but I wasnt put off by that, and had a custom sheath made for it by Lois Orford.
The head of the hatchet is hand forged in Sweden, single 'bit' with a nice poll, a cutting face of...
The head of the hatchet is hand forged in Sweden, single 'bit' with a nice poll, a cutting face of...