Small axes come in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and purposes that make them essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, craftspeople, and homeowners alike. Whether you’re camping in the wilderness, maintaining your property, or engaging in bushcraft activities, understanding the different types of small axes can help you select the perfect tool for your needs. This comprehensive guide explores the various names, types, specifications, and uses of small axes to help you navigate this versatile category of cutting implements.
The Fascinating World of Small Axes: Types and Terminology
Small axes go by several names, each reflecting their specific design, intended purpose, or historical origin. Let’s explore the most common types you’ll encounter:
Hatchet
The hatchet is perhaps the most recognized and widely used small axe. Featuring a compact design with a short handle and a relatively small head, the hatchet is a versatile all-purpose tool that excels in various tasks.
Characteristics of a typical hatchet include:
- Handle length: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
- Head weight: 1-2 pounds (0.45-0.9 kg)
- Overall weight: 1.5-2.5 pounds (0.7-1.1 kg)
- Head length: 5-7 inches (12.7-17.8 cm)
The hatchet’s balanced feel and manageable size make it ideal for one-handed use, perfect for camping trips, backyard work, and emergency kits. As one source notes, “Hatchets are a good, light, ‘all-round’ choice when going camping. You can split firewood, chop down small trees and remove their limbs, and clear an area of brush and branches with a hatchet” (AwesomeAxes.com).
Tomahawk
The tomahawk has a rich historical background, originating in North America where it was used by Native Americans. While similar to a hatchet in some ways, tomahawks have distinct characteristics that set them apart:
- Straight handle (unlike many hatchets with curved handles)
- Lighter weight than comparable hatchets
- Often friction-fitted head (inserted from the bottom up)
- Traditionally designed for throwing and combat as well as utility purposes
- Handle length: 14-20 inches (35-50 cm)
- Head weight: Varies significantly, but generally lighter than hatchets
The design of tomahawks makes them excellent for throwing competitions, but they’re also valued by hikers and bushcraft enthusiasts for their lightweight nature and versatility. “A tomahawk is a type of single-handed axe used by the many Indian peoples and nations of North America. It traditionally resembles a hatchet with a straight shaft” (Wikipedia).
Hand Axe/Camp Axe
Hand axes or camp axes occupy a middle ground between hatchets and larger forest axes. They’re designed to be compact enough for portability while providing enough leverage for more demanding tasks than a hatchet can handle.
Key specifications include:
- Handle length: 16-24 inches (40-60 cm)
- Head weight: 1.25-2 pounds (0.57-0.9 kg)
- Can typically be used one or two-handed
Hand axes are particularly popular among campers and hikers who need a more substantial tool than a hatchet but can’t carry a full-sized axe. They excel at tasks like preparing firewood, clearing small trails, and basic shelter building.
Small Forest Axe
The small forest axe represents another step up in size, designed to bridge the gap between hand axes and full-sized felling axes. This versatile tool offers greater chopping power while remaining portable enough for woodland expeditions.
Typical small forest axe specifications:
- Handle length: 19-25 inches (48-63 cm)
- Head weight: 1.5-2 pounds (0.7-0.9 kg)
- Overall length: 23-28 inches (58-71 cm)
Small forest axes are often considered the most versatile bushcraft axes, capable of felling small trees (up to about 4 inches in diameter), limbing, and processing firewood. As one expert notes, “They are a compromise, a jack of all trades, but expert at none” (WoodTrekker).
Boy’s Axe
Despite its name, the boy’s axe is not just for younger users but is an excellent option for adults seeking a versatile, medium-sized tool. With a typical handle length of 26-28 inches (66-71 cm) and a head weight of 2-2.5 pounds (0.9-1.1 kg), it’s substantial enough for serious work while remaining manageable.
“Despite the name, its 28″ length is appropriate and even ideal for the average grown man. Sure, the boy’s ax doesn’t have the same ‘oomph’ as its full-sized brother, but for most chores a suburban man would do around his home or out in the woods camping, it will get the job done” (Art of Manliness).
Hudson Bay Axe
The Hudson Bay axe is a historically significant design that emerged from the Canadian fur trade. Created for trappers who needed a reliable all-purpose tool during extended trips in the wilderness, it features:
- Handle length: 20-28 inches (50-71 cm)
- Head weight: Around 1.75-2 pounds (0.8-0.9 kg)
- Size between a hatchet and a full-sized felling axe
The Hudson Bay axe can be used with one or two hands, making it adaptable to various situations. It’s excellent for smaller chopping and splitting jobs, though not ideal for larger trees.
Comparing Small Axe Characteristics
To help you better understand the differences between these small axe types, let’s compare their key features:
| Axe Type | Handle Length | Head Weight | Primary Uses | Grip Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchet | 12-18 inches | 1-2 pounds | Camping, kindling, small cutting tasks | One-handed |
| Tomahawk | 14-20 inches | Varies, typically lighter | Throwing, combat, bushcraft | One-handed |
| Hand/Camp Axe | 16-24 inches | 1.25-2 pounds | Camping, trail clearing, fire preparation | One or two-handed |
| Small Forest Axe | 19-25 inches | 1.5-2 pounds | Tree felling (up to 4″), limbing, firewood | One or two-handed |
| Boy’s Axe | 26-28 inches | 2-2.5 pounds | General woodcutting, yard work | Two-handed (primarily) |
| Hudson Bay Axe | 20-28 inches | 1.75-2 pounds | All-purpose wilderness tool | One or two-handed |
Understanding Small Axe Design Elements
Several design elements contribute to how a small axe performs, feels, and functions:
Head Design
The head of a small axe consists of several components:
- Bit or blade: The cutting edge of the axe
- Eye: The hole where the handle fits
- Poll: The back of the axe head, opposite the blade
- Cheeks: The sides of the axe head
Different small axes feature varied head designs:
- Hatchets often have a flared shape with a sharp-tipped blade
- Tomahawks typically have a narrower head profile
- Splitting-focused axes have wider, wedge-shaped heads
- Carving or precision axes feature thinner blades
Handle Design
Small axe handles can vary in several ways:
- Length: From very short (12 inches) to medium (28 inches)
- Material: Traditionally wood (especially hickory), but also modern materials like fiberglass or composite
- Shape: Straight or curved, depending on intended use
- Grip: Some feature ergonomic designs, rubber grips, or traditional wood finishing
Handle design significantly impacts how an axe feels and performs. As one expert explains, “A shorter handle, like those on hatchets, offers more control for detailed work, while longer handles on axes provide increased leverage for heavier tasks” (BeaverCraft Tools).
Head-to-Handle Fit
Small axes employ different methods to secure the head to the handle:
- Wedged fit: The handle is inserted from the top and secured with a wedge (common in hatchets and traditional axes)
- Friction fit: The handle passes through from the bottom and is held by friction (common in tomahawks)
- One-piece construction: Some modern designs feature a single piece of metal for both head and handle
Choosing the Right Small Axe for Your Needs
Selecting the perfect small axe depends on several factors:
Consider Your Primary Use
- Camping and hiking: Lightweight options like hatchets or camp axes
- Bushcraft and wilderness living: Small forest axes or Hudson Bay axes
- Yard work and property maintenance: Boy’s axes or larger hand axes
- Competitive throwing: Tomahawks or specialized throwing axes
- Emergency preparedness: Compact, multi-functional designs
Evaluate Physical Factors
- Your height and arm length: Taller individuals may prefer slightly longer handles
- Upper body strength: Lighter heads for those with less strength, heavier for more power
- Experience level: Beginners might start with lighter, more manageable tools
Quality Considerations
When shopping for a small axe, look for:
- Steel quality: High-carbon steel holds an edge well
- Handle materials: Hickory is traditional, but modern composites offer durability
- Head forge: Hand-forged heads from reputable manufacturers tend to offer superior performance
- Balance: A well-balanced axe feels natural in hand and swings effectively
Popular Brands and Models
Several manufacturers are known for producing high-quality small axes:
Premium/Traditional Brands
- Gränsfors Bruk: Swedish manufacturer known for hand-forged axes (Wildlife Hatchet, Small Forest Axe)
- Hults Bruk/Hultafors: Another Swedish company with centuries of axe-making heritage
- Council Tool: American-made axes with traditional designs and modern manufacturing
Mid-Range Options
- Husqvarna: Quality axes at more accessible price points
- Fiskars: Known for innovative designs with composite handles
Budget-Friendly Choices
- Cold Steel: Affordable options with decent performance
- Gerber: Accessible axes with modern designs
Care and Maintenance of Small Axes
To keep your small axe in optimal condition:
Edge Maintenance
- Regularly sharpen using files, whetstones, or sharpening systems
- Maintain the original bevel angle for best performance
Handle Care
- Apply linseed oil to wooden handles periodically
- Check for cracks or looseness regularly
Storage
- Keep your axe in a dry environment
- Use a sheath to protect the edge and prevent accidents
- Hang axes rather than storing them with the blade contacting hard surfaces
Safety Considerations
Using small axes safely is paramount:
- Maintain a clear area with no bystanders within at least 10 yards
- Learn proper swinging technique before attempting challenging cuts
- When using small axes like hatchets, work from a kneeling position when possible
- Always cut away from your body
- Use a chopping block for splitting tasks
- Transport with a sheath covering the blade
Small Axe Applications
Small axes excel in various settings:
Outdoor and Wilderness Uses
- Processing firewood at campsites
- Creating emergency shelters
- Clearing light trails
- Harvesting materials for bushcraft projects
- Food preparation (game processing, etc.)
Homestead and Property Applications
- Splitting kindling
- Pruning small trees
- Clearing brush
- General yard maintenance
Recreational and Sport Applications
- Axe throwing competitions
- Historical reenactments
- Bushcraft skill development
FAQs About Small Axes
What is the difference between a hatchet and a tomahawk?
While both are small, one-handed axes, tomahawks typically feature straight handles (versus the often curved handles of hatchets), are lighter in weight, and have heads that are friction-fitted from the bottom rather than wedged from the top. Historically, tomahawks were also designed for combat and throwing, while hatchets were primarily utility tools.
What size axe is best for beginners?
For most beginners, a quality hatchet or small hand axe provides the best balance of versatility, manageable weight, and ease of use. These smaller tools are less intimidating and allow users to develop proper technique before moving to larger axes.
How heavy should a camping axe be?
A good camping axe typically weighs between 1.5-2.5 pounds total (including both head and handle). This provides enough weight for effective cutting while remaining portable enough for backpacking or hiking.
What is the best small axe for splitting kindling?
Hatchets with wedge-shaped heads work well for kindling, though specialized splitting hatchets with wider cheeks excel at this task. The Fiskars X7 and similar models are popular choices for this specific purpose.
How do I sharpen a small axe properly?
Start with a file to establish the edge profile, then progress to increasingly fine stones to refine the edge. Maintain the original bevel angle, and consider using a strop for final polishing. Many experts recommend a slightly convex edge for durability.
Conclusion
Small axes represent a fascinating category of tools that bridge ancient technology with modern needs. Whether you call it a hatchet, tomahawk, hand axe, or any other name, these compact cutting tools continue to serve valuable functions in our lives despite the advent of power tools. By understanding the differences between various small axe types, you can select the perfect tool for your specific needs—whether that’s processing firewood at camp, maintaining your property, or developing wilderness skills.
The right small axe becomes an extension of its user, serving faithfully for generations when properly selected, used, and maintained. As you explore this world of compact cutting tools, you’ll discover that each design represents centuries of evolution tailored to specific tasks and conditions, resulting in the remarkable diversity of options available today.
