Bushcraft Perfect

Why a Good Bushcraft Hatchet Matters

A bushcraft hatchet is more than just a tool for chopping wood. It’s your go-to for most of the work you’ll do in the wild.

Whether it’s building a shelter, splitting firewood, or making feather sticks to get your fire going, a reliable hatchet is one of the most important tools in your pack.

When you’re out there, you don’t have room for gear that’s going to fail on you. A good hatchet handles the jobs that require precision and power without becoming dead weight on your back.

Some people think they can get by with a cheap hatchet, but that’s a mistake you don’t want to make. Cheap ones often have poorly made heads that don’t hold an edge or handles that break with the first hard swing.

A quality hatchet, on the other hand, makes your life in the bush easier and safer. It’s a tool you’ll rely on over and over again, so getting the right one is key.

What to Look for in a Bushcraft Hatchet

There are three main things to consider when choosing a bushcraft hatchet: durability, balance, and sharpness.

Durability is obvious—you don’t want something that’s going to crack or chip after a few uses. This comes down to the materials used.

A solid steel head is a must, and the steel should be of high quality, like carbon steel or tool steel, which can hold up to heavy use and still take an edge.

Balance is a bit more personal, but it’s just as important. A well-balanced hatchet will feel natural in your hand. You should be able to swing it comfortably without straining your wrist or arm.

The weight of the head and the length of the handle need to work together to give you control. If the head is too heavy for the handle, you’ll struggle to use it accurately. If it’s too light, you’ll waste effort trying to get enough power behind your swings.

Sharpness is where you can’t compromise. A dull hatchet is dangerous because it requires more force to do the same work, which leads to mistakes.

You need a hatchet that holds its edge for a long time, so you’re not constantly sharpening it in the field. The shape of the blade matters too—a good bushcraft hatchet will have a thin, curved blade that’s sharp enough for detailed work but strong enough for splitting wood.

How to Pick the Right Size and Weight

Size and weight can make or break your experience with a hatchet. If it’s too big, it’s going to feel clumsy, and if it’s too small, it won’t have enough power behind it.

The sweet spot is usually a hatchet that’s between 12 to 16 inches in length and weighs around 1.5 to 2 pounds. This gives you a tool that’s easy to carry but still heavy enough to get the job done.

If you’re planning on doing a lot of chopping or splitting, you might want something slightly heavier, like a small axe, but keep in mind that carrying a heavier tool over long distances adds to your fatigue.

On the other hand, ultralight hatchets can be convenient to carry but often don’t perform well in tough conditions. They lack the weight to split wood efficiently and can be less durable due to lighter materials.

In bushcraft, you’re looking for versatility. A medium-sized hatchet can handle most tasks without weighing you down. You can still chop, split, carve, and hammer with it, but it won’t be too cumbersome when attached to your pack.

If you can, test a few sizes before settling on one that feels right for you.

Top Picks for the Best Bushcraft Hatchets

One of the best all-around bushcraft hatchets is the Gränsfors Bruk Wildlife Hatchet.

It’s known for its balance and sharpness, thanks to its hand-forged steel head. The handle is hickory, which gives it the right amount of flex without breaking.

At about 13.5 inches long and weighing just over a pound, it’s the perfect size for most bushcraft tasks. It’s easy to carry but still powerful enough for splitting small logs.

Another solid option is the Hults Bruk Almike Hatchet. Similar in size to the Gränsfors, it offers great performance with a razor-sharp edge right out of the box.

The Swedish steel holds its edge for a long time, and the hand-carved hickory handle gives it a classic feel with excellent durability.

It’s a bit on the pricier side, but like the Gränsfors, you’re paying for quality that will last for years.

For those looking for a budget-friendly but reliable option, the Estwing Sportsman’s Axe is a good choice.

Made from a single piece of forged steel, it’s nearly indestructible. The handle is wrapped in leather, which gives it a comfortable grip, though it lacks the natural shock absorption you get from a wooden handle.

It’s not as lightweight as the others, but it’s built to last and still performs well in the field.

Finally, if you need something slightly larger, the Fiskars X7 Hatchet offers a lot of power in a compact package.

The head is made from hardened steel, and the handle is fiberglass, which is nearly impossible to break.

It’s less traditional than the wood-handled hatchets, but if you’re after something durable and easy to maintain, the Fiskars X7 is a solid option at a lower price point.

Taking Care of Your Hatchet: Maintenance Tips

Once you’ve got your hatchet, it’s important to take care of it.

A poorly maintained hatchet is more likely to fail when you need it, and that can be dangerous. Keep your blade sharp. A dull hatchet not only makes your work harder but also increases the chances of injury since it forces you to use more force than necessary.

Regular sharpening is key, and you can do this with a simple sharpening stone. Start with a coarse stone to remove any nicks or dull spots, and then switch to a finer stone to put a smooth, sharp edge back on the blade.

After sharpening, wipe the blade down and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust, especially if your hatchet has a carbon steel head.

Take care of the handle too. Wooden handles should be oiled occasionally to keep them from drying out and cracking. Linseed oil works well for this.

If you’ve got a fiberglass handle, maintenance is easier, but still check for cracks or wear, especially where the handle meets the head.

Lastly, store your hatchet properly. Don’t leave it outside or in damp conditions, as moisture can damage both the blade and the handle over time. Keep it in a dry place and cover the blade with a sheath when it’s not in use.

In the bush, your hatchet is one of your most important tools. Take care of it, and it’ll take care of you.