The best camping axes

If you like to get back to basics when camping, then you may want to consider adding a camping axe to your pack. The compact hatchets are remarkably versatile - you’ll find them coming in handy far more often than you’d first expect. Whether it’s to clear some extra camping space, construct a shelter or whip up some tinder and kindling, there are plenty of times that a camping axe comes into its own.

If you’re someone who already takes a survival knife out onto the mountainside, you may find that the axe is a far more robust and efficient tool. It offers a similar level of precision and far greater efficiency and versatility.

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To help you find the best camping axe, we’ve rounded up our top choices below. While we’ve included some versatile and pricey choices, we’ve also picked some budget options. These work well for anyone tempted by the convenience and potential of a camping axe but wanting to try one out before diving in and spending big.

In addition to this shortlist, you’ll also find a quick FAQ at the bottom of the page. Here we answer some beginner questions about camping axes, as well as look at the UK laws for purchasing, carrying and using an axe.

Without further delay, here are the axes that chopped through the competition to rank among the very best.

The best camping axes 2021

What are camping axes used for?

A camping axe, sometimes called a camping hatcher, is a compact and portable axe. They are very useful when camping, especially when you have limited supplies or are camping in remote areas. They can be used to chop trees and branches for firewood, kindling and tinder, cleaning the limbs of wood, carving and whittling, or even clearing ice and compacted snow.

Some axes are multi-functional and can be used to hammer pegs using the back end of the blade. Some, such as the Camillus CAMTRAX, even have saws in their handles,

What is full and partial tang?

A full tang is when the metal of a blade runs the full length and width of the handle. A partial tang is when the bade tapers down into a point or thin length that is inserted into a handle. Generally speaking, a full tang construction is considered superior, as it has fewer stress points and thus greater strength.

The terminology is also used when describing knives. You can read more about the different types of full and partial tang at The Knife Hub.

Why is axe weight important?

The weight of an axe is hugely important for many reasons, especially when camping. Here are some things to consider before purchasing a camping axe:

More weight equals more force. The heavier an axe, the more force it will fall with and the better (and quicker) it will cut. Light axes require the user to do more of the work, making them less efficient for larger cutting tasks.

More weight equals less accuracy. Though weight is important for power, it can also reduce your control, which is inefficient and potentially dangerous. It’s about balancing weight and accuracy.

You’ve got to carry it. Unlike felling or splitting axes, camping axes need to be portable.

Luckily, pretty much every manufacturer of camping axes know all of this too. Most camping axes weigh between 400g and 600g, which is an ideal weight for balancing the three considerations above.

Please note: In the following two sections, we are talking only about the United Kingdom and its laws. If you're from outside of the UK, or looking to use a camping axe anywhere other than the UK, check the local information.

Are camping axes legal?

Yes, camping axes are legal to own, use and carry in appropriate circumstances. However, it is an offence to have a camping axe on your person without good reason.

If you do not have a good reason for carrying the axe, you may be charged with carrying a bladed weapon. In such a case, to quote from the Criminal Justice Act of 1988, “It shall be a defence for a person charged with an offence under this section to prove that he had good reason or lawful authority for having the article with him in a public place.”

So, if you’re on a campsite that allows you to chop firewood, you’re fine. Conversely, strapping a camping hatchet to your belt for a quick walk to the corner shop isn’t going to be considered acceptable.

You can read more about the UK laws on the Original Outdoors blog.

How old do you have to be to buy a camping axe?

In the UK you must be over the age of 18 to purchase an axe. Some retailers may contact you to confirm your date of birth with a valid ID, while others will verify your age at the point of delivery.

William Lobley is a Senior Content Writer and reviewer for WhatsTheBest, specialising in technology and outdoors. He also writes for Empire Online.

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