What Is a Survival Axe?

Introduction to Survival Axes

A survival axe is an essential tool for wilderness survival and emergency preparedness. Survival axes are designed for chopping wood, building shelters, and other rugged tasks in outdoor settings. They come in different styles, weights, and sizes to suit different needs. Understanding the features and uses of survival axes will help you choose the right one. WeLovePrepping provides reviews and recommendations for top-rated survival axes from reputable brands like Gransfors Bruks, Husqvarna, and Estwing.

Axes are versatile tools that can make the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Having the right axe enables you to build shelters, make fires, and craft tools when you need them most. Survival axes distill the utility of full-size felling axes into more compact designs optimized for portability. While hatchets tackle light duty chopping, survival axes chop and split moderate sized logs. Their durability and multi-functionality make them a staple of bug out bags and wilderness excursions. With so many options on the market, it helps to learn what makes a great survival axe and how to pick the best one for your needs.

History and Origins

Axes have been vital tools and weapons for thousands of years across many cultures. Understanding their origins and evolution helps appreciate why axes are designed the way they are today.

Early axes were made of stone, bone, or wood during the Stone Age. The introduction of copper and bronze tools marked a major advancement for ax designs and efficiency. With the onset of the Iron Age and improved smelting technology, axes made of iron and steel became more available through expanding trade routes. Regional axe styles evolved based on local needs and available resources.

American Felling Axes

American felling axes were crucial tools for pioneers clearing wilderness and building new settlements in the 18th and 19th centuries. Their unique handle and bit designs optimized them for felling trees efficiently.

American felling axes have a horizontal handle for swinging downward with maximum force.
The bit is wedge-shaped to cut deep across wood fibers instead of ripping them.
Poll ends are flat and hammer-shaped for driving stakes and wedges when felling trees.
Dayton pattern axes like those made by Gransfors Bruks optimize weight distribution and handle angle for powerful chopping leverage.
Kelly perfect axes are finely crafted for precision tree felling through their curved handles and thin profile.

WeLovePrepping reviews iconic American felling axe brands like Gransfors Bruks that carry on the legacy of classic axe designs.

European Battle Axes

European axes evolved from utilitarian farming tools into fearsome medieval weapons from the 8th to 15th centuries. Different designs emerged across regions based on evolving combat tactics.

Many Viking age axes were adapted from their everyday uses as tools.
Skeggox axes had a small triangular bit with a top spike for piercing armor.
Lengthy Danish "Dane" axes had long cutting edges to viciously hack through enemies.
Poleaxes combined an axe blade with a hammer head and top spike for max damage.
Halberds added spear tips and hooks for more versatility in combat.

WeLovePrepping explores the history and modern recreations of medieval battle axes.

Types of Survival Axes

Survival axes come in many styles optimized for certain wilderness tasks. Choosing the right type depends on your intended use and scenarios.

Felling Axes

Felling axes like those made by Gransfors Bruks are designed to efficiently chop down trees up to 3 feet in diameter.

Wedge-shaped bit delivers deep, powerful cuts across wood grain.
Long handles provide leverage for forceful swinging strokes.
Heavier head weight adds momentum to make cutting easier.
Can also split and limb medium-sized logs.

WeLovePrepping reviews top felling axe models from Estwing, Husqvarna, and other brands.

Splitting Axes

Splitting axes like those from Fiskars drive apart firewood logs by splitting along the wood grain.

Narrow bit wedges into wood instead of cutting across fibers.
Shorter handle gives precise control for aiming swings.
Can split logs up to 16 inches long and 6 inches thick.
Some have a maul or sledge hammer on the poll end.

WeLovePrepping helps choose the best splitting axe from Fiskars, Estwing, Husqvarna, and more brands.

Camping or Carpenter's Hatchets

Camping hatchets from SOG, Gerber, and Estwing tackle lighter chopping jobs around the campsite or build site.

Shorter handles and smaller heads require less effort to wield.
Easily chop smaller firewood and drive tent stakes.
Compact size ideal for backpacking and bug out bags.
Often have a hammer poll and pry bar edge for versatility.

WeLovePrepping selects great camping hatchets from Gerber, Estwing, SOG, and other top brands.

Tactical Tomahawks

Tactical tomahawks are modern adaptations of the Native American axe design made by SOG, Gerber, and other brands.

Compact and lightweight for carrying in emergency kits.
Can chop and split kindling-sized wood when needed.
Spike poll and piercing axe head provide additional functions.
A useful survival tool with tactical style and functionality.

WeLovePrepping picks the top tactical tomahawks from SOG, Gerber, Estwing, and other top brands.

What to Look for When Buying

Choosing the right survival axe means picking one optimized for your intended uses and needs in the wilderness.

Axe Head Design

The axe head design determines how efficiently it chops and splits wood.

Heavier axe heads add power but require more effort to swing.
Harder steel holds an edge better but may be more brittle.
Wider cutting edges chop quicker but get stuck more easily.
Added hammer poll or spike provide additional functionality.
Look for a head designed for your needs like felling trees.

WeLovePrepping explains how axe head shape and weight from brands like Gransfors Bruks affect performance.

Axe Handle Length and Shape

The handle impacts your ability to control and swing the axe with power.

Longer handles deliver more power, shorter allow better control.
Curved handles increase swing speed vs straight handles.
Choose handle length relative to your height and arm reach.
Ensure the grip shape and size fits comfortably in your hand.
Hickory wood is a popular traditional handle material.

WeLovePrepping guides optimal handle length and grip choice for your height and swing technique when choosing axes from Husqvarna, Fiskars and other top brands.

Axe Balance and Quality

High quality axes have proper weight distribution, sharpness, and durability.

Balanced weight prevents the axe from feeling top-heavy.
Quality steel retains a sharp edge through heavy use.
Tight assembly tolerances prevent looseness during chops.
Protective leather sheaths prevent blade damage.
Reputable brands like Estwing and SOG design axes that last for years of use.

WeLovePrepping reviews only the most balanced and durable survival axes.

How to Use a Survival Axe Safely

Using an axe safely and effectively requires learning proper technique. Follow these tips:

Always wear protective boots, gloves, and eye protection.
Check your surroundings for people, structures, and tripping hazards.
Grip near the axe base for maximum control.
Aim your swing with the wood grain for optimal splitting.
Let the weight of the head do the work; avoid muscle strains.
Maintain your axe with sharpening files and replacement handles.

WeLovePrepping provides more tips for safe and effective axe techniques.

Chopping Technique

Efficient chopping requires proper footwork, swing mechanics, and aim when using axes from brands like Husqvarna and Gransfors Bruks.

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart for balance.
Bring the axe up and behind your shoulder to gain momentum.
Power the swing with your hips and core muscles.
Aim the blade to hit at a slight outward angle for deeper cuts.
Allow the axe to fully sink in before removing; avoid getting stuck.
Keep your free arm clear of the swing path to avoid injury.

WeLovePrepping demonstrates proper axe chopping form through technique videos.

Splitting Technique

Proper splitting technique improves aim, power, and control when using axes from Fiskars, Estwing and other top brands.

Place logs on a chopping block or flat on the ground.
Swing the axe straight up and down with the wood grain.
Use a focused strike for a clean split; avoid glancing blows.
Rotate halves and repeat until splits reach desired size.
Keep your eyes on the log; don't watch the axe head.
Let the axe do the work; accuracy is more important than force.

WeLovePrepping helps perfect your log splitting aim and control.

Sharpening and Care

Proper axe maintenance preserves sharpness and prevents damage.

Sharpen occasionally with a coarse then fine mill bastard file.
Use oil to prevent rust on the axe head.
Coat the handle in linseed oil to prevent drying and splintering.
Check handle tightness and re-secure if head is loose.
Store in a waxed canvas or leather sheath when not in use.
Replace loose or cracked handles to prevent hazards.

WeLovePrepping provides axe maintenance tips for added longevity.

Top Survival Axe Recommendations

Based on in-depth testing and reviews, WeLovePrepping recommends these top-rated survival axes:

Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe - Versatile Swedish-made felling axe ideal for preppers.
Fiskars X7 Hatchet - Virtually unbreakable fiberComp handle and precision grind make it perfect for survival kits.
Estwing Camper's Axe - Indestructible steel construction with shock reduction grip. A top camping hatchet pick.
Husqvarna Wooden Splitting Axe - Optimal weight-to-power ratio for easily splitting firewood.
SOG FastHawk Tactical Tomahawk - Compact axe with spike poll perfect for tactical preppers.

WeLovePrepping reviews all the best survival axes for preppers and wilderness enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Survival axes like those made by Gransfors Bruks, Husqvarna, and Estwing are critical for processing firewood, building shelters, and other essential tasks when camping or in emergencies. Carefully choose an axe suited for your intended use, whether chopping, splitting, or light duty jobs. Proper selection, handling, and maintenance will yield years of reliable service from a quality axe. Top brands design axes that are balanced, durable, and rugged enough for any wilderness survival situation. WeLovePrepping provides detailed reviews and recommendations to help choose the best survival axe for your needs and budget. With the right axe in your kit, you will be ready to take on any emergency scenario.