When venturing into the great outdoors, whether for camping, hiking, or emergency preparedness, having the right tools is crucial. A survival hatchet can be one of the most versatile and essential items in your gear. It can help you chop wood for a fire, build shelter, or defend yourself in an emergency. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best survival hatchet?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about survival hatchets, from their key features to the top 5 bestselling models on Amazon.
What is a Survival Hatchet?
A survival hatchet is a small axe that is designed for outdoor use. It combines the cutting power of an axe with the portability of a compact tool. Typically, a survival hatchet has a sharp, strong blade and a sturdy handle, making it ideal for chopping wood, preparing firewood, or even as a self-defense tool in extreme situations. A survival hatchet is lighter and more portable than a full-sized axe, which makes it an excellent choice for survival kits or camping trips.
Key Features of a Survival Hatchet
Before we dive into the top hatchet recommendations, let’s look at the important features you should consider when selecting one:
- Blade Material: High-carbon steel is the most durable and sharpest material for survival hatchets.
- Handle Material: A strong, comfortable handle made from wood, fiberglass, or steel ensures durability and comfort during use.
- Weight: A balanced hatchet will allow for easy use, while still being heavy enough to perform cutting tasks efficiently.
- Size and Portability: Look for a hatchet that fits comfortably in your hand and is easy to store or carry.
- Versatility: Some survival hatchets come with additional features, such as a hammer on the back or a fire starter.
Top 5 Best Survival Hatchets
Now that we understand what makes a great survival hatchet, let’s take a look at the top five bestselling survival hatchets on Amazon. These picks are based on sales, user reviews, and expert recommendations.
1. Estwing Sportsman’s Axe
- OUTDOOR VERSATILITY – This hatchet is perfect for chopping limbs, small trees, branches, or splitting firewood and kindl…
- GENUINE LEATHER GRIP – Hand sanded and lacquered for a durable yet comfortable finish is designed for extended use while…
- FORGED IN ONE PIECE – Crafted from a single piece of solid American steel, the design of this backpacking hatchet elimin…
Weight: 1.86 Pounds
Blade Length: 10.75 Inches
Ideal for: Campers, hunters, hikers, and those needing a reliable outdoor tool.
The Estwing Sportsman’s Axe is a top-rated survival hatchet known for its durability and performance. The full-tang steel construction makes this tool virtually indestructible, while its leather handle provides comfort during use. The 10.75-inch blade is ideal for chopping firewood, clearing brush, and other outdoor tasks.
Why You Should Choose It: The Estwing hatchet is built to last a lifetime, providing excellent value for money. Its compact design makes it easy to carry.
Ideal User Group: This hatchet is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable, reliable, and versatile tool.
2. Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Hatchet
- DURABLE OUTDOOR GEAR: The Gerber Pack camping hatchet features a 3.5″ corrosion-resistant black oxide coating steel blad…
- COMPACT AND CONVENIENT: Compact and portable with 9.46″ overall length and 20.8 oz weight make it perfect for camping, h…
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: The Pack camping axe includes a lanyard hole for secure storage and a removable nylon hatchet sheath …
Weight: 1 lb 3.6 oz
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
Ideal for: Survivalists, backpackers, and anyone focused on lightweight, multi-use tools.
Gerber’s Bear Grylls Survival Hatchet is a lightweight, durable tool designed for all kinds of outdoor activities. It has a full tang steel blade that delivers reliable cutting performance. The textured rubber handle ensures a comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. Additionally, the hatchet features a lanyard hole for added portability.
Why You Should Choose It: This hatchet is designed with survival situations in mind, with an emphasis on portability and ease of use.
Ideal User Group: Great for minimalist backpackers and survivalists who need a compact, multi-functional tool.
3. Cold Steel Trench Hawk
- TACTICAL SURVIVAL AXE: Tactical axe designed for cutting, splitting, and throwing with sharp cutting edge and wedge-styl…
- PROTECTIVE SHEATH: Comes with durable Secure-Ex sheath for safe and secure transport and storage
- STRONG CONSTRUCTION: Great for camping, axe throwing, carpentry, and wood cutting with carbon steel blade and polypropyl…
Weight: 0.7 Kilograms
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
Ideal for: Tactical use, outdoor survival, and self-defense.
The Cold Steel Trench Hawk is a tactical survival hatchet that combines rugged durability with an aggressive design. It features a 3.5-inch steel blade and a balanced, ergonomic handle. The head is slightly angled, which improves the cutting motion. The handle also includes a steel insert for added strength.
Why You Should Choose It: The Cold Steel Trench Hawk offers both a practical hatchet and a tool for self-defense.
Ideal User Group: Military personnel, preppers, or anyone who needs a versatile tool for both survival and self-defense situations.
4. SOG FastHawk- Lighter, Faster, Agile Throwing Hatchet
- SOG HAWKS WITH BITE: At 12.5 inches, these hatchets and hawks are built to swing fast and true; these axes feature a raz…
- 19 OUNCE TACTICAL HAWK: Lightweight yet heavy-duty, FastHawk hatchets are superb backpacking, hiking and survival axes t…
- HAWK HATCHET WITH SHEATH: Light, fast, and agile tactical hawk snaps securely in its ballistic nylon sheath; competition…
Weight: 19 Ounces
Blade Length: 1.5 Inches
Ideal for: EDC (Everyday Carry), tactical enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a compact, versatile tool.
SOG FastHawk- Lighter, Faster, Agile Throwing Hatchet is an impressive blend of compactness and performance. It features a 2.75-inch blade that can handle a wide variety of cutting tasks. Despite its smaller size, it offers excellent balance and cutting power. The strong, ergonomic handle ensures comfort and control during extended use.
Why You Should Choose It: This hatchet offers great portability without sacrificing performance, making it ideal for everyday carry.
Ideal User Group: Ideal for those who need a compact, tactical tool for everyday carry or survival situations.
5. Husqvarna 13″ Hatchet
- Small, light axe that can be used for cutting branches or splitting small camp fire wood
- Head is attached to the hickory shaft using both a wooden and steel wedge to secure fastening
- Comes with a leather edge cover
Weight: 2.2 Pounds
Blade Length: 8 Centimeters
Ideal for: Those looking for a reliable, high-quality hatchet for wood cutting.
Husqvarna is known for producing high-quality outdoor tools, and their 13″ Hatchet is no exception. This lightweight hatchet features a carbon steel blade that holds its edge well, and the handle is made from durable hickory wood. It is well-suited for chopping smaller pieces of firewood or clearing brush.
Why You Should Choose It: Husqvarna’s 13″ Hatchet is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable tool for cutting wood or preparing kindling.
Ideal User Group: Best for campers, woodworkers, and those who need a reliable hatchet for everyday tasks.
Comparison Table: Key Features of Top Survival Hatchets
| Brand | Weight | Blade Length | Ideal Use | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estwing Sportsman’s Axe | 1.86 Pounds | 10.75 Inches | Camping, Hiking | Full-tang, Leather handle |
| Gerber Bear Grylls Hatchet | 1.23 lbs | 3.5 inches | Survival, Backpacking | Rubber handle, Lanyard hole |
| Cold Steel Trench Hawk | 0.7 Kilograms | 3.5 inches | Tactical, Survival | Aggressive design, Ergonomic |
| SOG FastHawk- Lighter, Faster, Agile Throwing Hatchet | 19 Ounces | 1.5 Inches | EDC, Tactical | Compact, Ergonomic handle |
| Husqvarna 13″ Hatchet | 2.2 Pounds | 8 Centimeters | Wood cutting, Camping | Carbon steel, Hickory handle |
How to Choose the Best Survival Hatchet for You
Choosing the right survival hatchet depends on your needs and intended use. Consider these factors before purchasing:
- Weight and Portability: If you plan to carry the hatchet in a survival kit or backpack, lightweight models like the Gerber Bear Grylls or SOG Voodoo Hawk Mini are ideal.
- Durability: For tough outdoor tasks, a full-tang hatchet like the Estwing Sportsman’s Axe or Cold Steel Trench Hawk is your best bet.
- Versatility: Some hatchets offer extra features like tactical uses or multi-functionality, so choose based on your specific needs.
- Ease of Use: Ensure that the hatchet has an ergonomic design and a comfortable handle to reduce hand fatigue.
Final Thoughts: The Best Survival Hatchet for Your Needs
Survival hatchets are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, preppers, and those who love the outdoors. The right hatchet can help you chop wood, build shelter, and perform numerous other tasks. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight option for backpacking or a heavy-duty tool for tough jobs, there’s a survival hatchet for you.
The top 5 hatchets we’ve covered in this guide are all fantastic choices. Whether you choose the durability of Estwing, the versatility of Gerber, or the tactical design of Cold Steel, any of these hatchets will serve you well in an emergency or outdoor setting.
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