The Best Hatchets
Hatchets are one of the most useful tools for any outdoor scenario. They're excellent for splitting wood, pounding down stakes, pruning branches, and much more. Some hatchets are hefty for maximum force, while others are made with shorter handles for compact convenience. But no matter what you're planning to do out in the woods or the yard, a solid hatchet should be on your must-have list. To help you find the best one for you, we've done the research and compiled a list of our favorite hatchets on the market today.
WilFiks Camping Outdoor Hatchet
Well-balanced hatchet
This lightweight chopping hatchet is crafted for easy splitting of wood, branches, and kindling. The blade has been specifically optimized for max efficiency when chopping, so you can achieve more one-strike splits. This hatchet comes with a 15-inch handle and is also great for clearing debris, pounding down tent stakes, and gardening. The forged carbon steel heat-treated blade improves density and durability, while the ergonomic design of the handle features an anti-slip grip and shock-absorbing material. Easily resharpen the blade with a file and use the rubber protective sheath for safe storage and transport. Well-balanced and with convenient features, we’d highly recommend this hatchet.
Pros:
- Ergonomic handle
- Able to resharpen the blade
- Offered in two different sizes
Cons:
- Although you are able to resharpen the blade, it may dull after a few uses
Fiskar X7 Hatchet
Get that campfire going
Great for camping and zombie defense, this hatchet was made for outdoor enthusiasts. Light but strong, it’s great for chopping small to medium-sized logs. It also features an ultra-sharp edge with a low-friction coating and is virtually unbreakable. The perfectly distributed weight means you’ll experience optimal power so chopping firewood and kindling couldn’t get any easier. Plus, the stronger-than-steel FiberComp handle and insert-molded heads are built to last. We also like how the compact design makes it a breeze to carry to walk-in campsites. Chop more wood in less time, with less effort, with this hatchet ideal for camping.
Pros:
- Ultra-sharp blade
- Extremely durable
- Low-friction blade coating
Cons:
- Not ideal for chopping large-sized logs
Mossy Oak 12 Piece Camping Tool Set
The dependable set
This set has everything you need for a successful and safe trek in the wilderness. The kit includes a small hatchet, a hunting knife with a sheath, a 10-inch machete, a mini flashlight with batteries inside, a knife stone sharpener, 50 feet of paracord, a flint stick, and five carabiners. The hatchet and knife are both wrapped in strong paracord which can be removed and used in case of an emergency. The hatchet features three hexagonal holes that can be used as a wrench and it also has an integrated forged blade for heavy-duty use. The hunting knife offers a serrated edge at the bottom of the blade, while the handle of the machete is made of soft rubber material with anti-skid grooves. Throw this set in your pack and you can tackle anything.
Pros:
- 12-piece set
- Hatchet doubles as a wrench
- All sharp tools come with their own sheaths
Cons:
- We wish it came with a carrying pouch to keep all the items together
NedFoss 9-Inch Hatchet Warthog
Small yet mighty
If you’re looking for something compact to strap to your waist or pack during long hikes, this is it. This hatch is crafted with a premium 440 stainless steel and heat-treated blade. The ergonomic handle is made with natural wood and etched with a warthog design, making it functional and just plain awesome. This hatchet is great for self-defense in the backcountry trails or at camp. It is also suitable for home DIY projects and can be useful around the ranch. Plus, it comes with a nylon sheath to protect the hand-sharpened edge. This versatile little hatchet features a durable, full tong blade and is almost indestructible.
Pros:
- Warthog etching
- Corrosion-resistant materials
- Compact design for portability
Cons:
- Not designed to split wood
Efficere 14-Inch Outdoor Survival Hatchet
High quality, low price
You won’t have to comprise functionality with this inexpensive hatchet. This tool is ideal for chopping small and medium logs, kindling, shaving thorns, hammering, and more. The expertly engineered head and handle are perfectly balanced and offer a power-to-weight ratio that increases swing speed and chopping power. The forged alloy steel head features a fully polished finish with a rust-preventative coating, making this hatchet super durable. The handle has an anti-shock and anti-skip fiberglass grip for better control.
Pros:
- Excellent for throwing
- Great value for the price
- Anti-shock fiberglass handle
Cons:
- The edge is a bit blunt making it difficult to resharpen
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use my hatchet for?
Hatchets are typically used to chop wood, make kindling, cut branches, and clear debris. They can also be used for breaking through doors and windows in emergencies, cutting wiring, DIY projects around the house and yard, and hammering down tent stakes. The uses of a hatchet are endless when you start getting creative. Plus, their smaller size makes them great for travel and storage.
What’s the difference between a hatchet and an axe?
A hatchet is basically a smaller version of an axe. Hatchets only require one hand to be used while axes generally require both hands. Also, hatchets usually can only split small pieces of wood while axes can handle larger logs and trees.
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