Outdoor Axes [For beginners of wood-splitting and hatchets for bonfires at camp]
Based on an interview with mountain photographer Yusuke Arai, we will introduce how to choose an ax for the outdoors. In addition to recommended products, please also check the information that is useful when using it, such as the scene to use and the characteristics of each weight. The outdoor ax, which is convenient for crafting and making fires, is also useful for camping and bushcraft. Depending on the size and manufacturer, the names such as "outdoor ax", "field ax", and "hatchet" are different, and there are various types such as those for detailed work and those for chopping wood. In the latter half of the article, there is a comparison list and a link to the latest popularity ranking on the mail order site, so let's check the selling points and word of mouth.
What is an ax/hatchet that can be used outdoors?
Literately, there are also types such as hatchets, ax knives, and ax hammers.
Wood chopping ax
A hatchet is a small ax with a short handle. It's convenient for chopping firewood and removing branches at the camp, and you can enjoy the camp more seriously. In addition, it can be used to drive the pegs of a tent, so it is a good tool to have.
How to choose an outdoor ax
Look at the characteristics, weight, use, and safety of the ax
Ax placed on firewood
From here, I will explain how to choose an ax that can be used for bonfires when outdoors or camping. If you are a beginner, you may not know how to choose a camping ax. If you are looking for an ax for chopping wood, please refer to it.
Know the characteristics and choose a weight that is easy to handle
Choose the size that suits your needs. It is important to use the one that suits your physical constitution to reduce fatigue and prevent injury. Try different types or rent them to choose the right size.
Easy-to-use lightweight one-handed type
If you want to cut the cut firewood into a size that is easier to use, or if you want to use it to easily avoid branches, we recommend a type that can be handled with one hand of about 40 cm. For those who can be smaller and women, things around 30 cm are fine.
It's light, so it's convenient to carry, and it's easy to handle because it's easy to work with. Even beginners can easily work, so it may be a good idea to start here.
Heavy type for full-scale chopping of wood
If you want to enjoy the outdoors in earnest, you may find firewood from the logs. In such a case, it is better to choose a heavy wood-splitting ax that can be handled with both hands. It is recommended that the blade has a certain degree of profoundness and blade is thick. Since it will be a full-fledged type, it may not be suitable for beginners and weak women.
Choose the one that suits your purpose
It is an important point in choosing how you want to use it. Consider a scene where you use an ax.
Crafting and burning
If you want to make a small piece of firewood for burning, a small hatchet is a good outdoor gear. It is a type that is easy to handle even for women and beginners and has a small turn. Since it can be used as a knife, it is sure to be useful in a wide range of scenes such as sculpture and cooking, in addition to making firewood.
Wood chopping and log chopping
If you want to use an ax to cut a big tree, we recommend "Splitting Ax". It has a wedge shape when viewed from the side, and is characterized by its powerful appearance. You can cut wood along the grain, so it is suitable for chopping wood.
The long handle will also help you shake off your ax and break big firewood. The hammer ax type that can also be used as a hammer is also popular.
Japanese ax for conifers
The Japanese ax is characterized by its sharp teeth and straightness. It is perfect for cutting coniferous trees such as sugi and cypress and is famous as an ax suitable for chopping wood. Since it is made in Japan, not only can you use it with confidence, but you can also get it at a relatively low price. It's also light and easy to handle, so it's also recommended for women and beginners.
Hardwood ax
A Western ax is characterized by its thin cutting edge and thickening toward the root. The blade is solid and heavy, so it is suitable for cutting hardwoods.
It's expensive, but you can cut any kind of firewood, so if you're looking for versatility, this type of ax is recommended. The stylish design makes it perfect for those who want to be particular about the appearance of outdoor equipment.
Choose by the ease of grip
It is no exaggeration to say that the ease of holding the grip determines the usability of the ax. The burden on the wrist varies depending on the material, shape, angle, etc., so you must check it carefully. It's easy to tell if it suits you by actually touching it, but if you buy online, check the reviews.
Choose with an emphasis on safety
Since you will be carrying an outdoor ax, it is also important to ensure safety along the way. If the blade is left exposed, you may get injured or damage your luggage, so choose one with a case.
If you want to carry it more safely, you will need to wrap it in a towel or double the cover.
Choose the outdoor ax that suits your needs
In outdoor activities such as camping, there are occasions when you need an ax, such as chopping wood. In this article, we have introduced how to choose an outdoor ax and recommended products.
Consider who will use it and what purpose it will be used for, and choose an outdoor ax that is easy to use.
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More video introductions：
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJlwymb5oMk&t=63s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OGFs7MR78g&t=38s
Article source: Outdoor Axes [For beginners of wood-splitting and hatchets for bonfires at camp] | Shieldon
