Everything You Want to Know About Hatchets and Axes

When it comes to outdoor tools, hatchets and axes are like the dynamic duo of wood-splitting and crafting, each with its own set of superpowers. But don’t let their similar appearance fool you, these tools are built for different tasks. Whether you’re prepping firewood for your next car camping trip or diving into a woodworking project at home, knowing when to reach for a hatchet versus an axe can make your experience a whole lot easier, and more fun!s

So, if you’re gearing up for your next adventure and feeling a little stuck, don’t worry as in this guide we’ll dive into what makes hatchets and axes unique and how to pick the right one for your needs. 

Spoiler alert: you might just want to have both in your toolkit. 

So, What Exactly is a Hatchet Tool?

A hatchet is like the younger sibling of the traditional axe -it’s smaller, lighter, and designed for one-handed use, making it the perfect tool for those quick tasks around the campfire or in the workshop. Usually weighing in at just 1 to 2 pounds with a handle length of 12–18 inches, the hatchet’s compact size makes it a favorite among car campers, RVers, and DIYers alike.

It’s ideal for:

• Splitting small logs for kindling (because we all know a cozy fire is the heart of camping)

• Cutting and trimming smaller branches

• Basic carving and crafting tasks (perfect for whittling a new spoon or crafting something neat around the campfire)

While it can handle some basic outdoor tasks, it’s not built for heavy-duty chopping, which is where an axe might come into play. But for campers, woodworkers, and hobbyists, a hatchet is the ideal lightweight tool that gets the job done.

What is an Axe?

Now, if you’re tackling bigger projects like log building, carpentry, or clearing a lot of wood - a full-size axe is the heavyweight champion you need. With longer handles (typically 24 to 36 inches) and heavier heads (3–5 pounds), axes are made for serious work like felling trees, splitting large logs, and all sorts of heavy-duty wood processing.

However, axes are less portable, so they’re better suited for stationary tasks like woodworking projects or heavy camp setups where you don’t mind hauling the extra weight. If you’re taking on a home DIY project or splitting logs for a fire, axes offer the power and versatility to make quick work of tough jobs.

Hatchet vs. Axe (Which Should You Choose?)

Choosing between a hatchet tool and an axe depends on what you are looking to accomplish. To help clear things up for you, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of these tools:

1. Portability
If you’re camping, hiking, or on a DIY project where you need to keep things light, a hatchet is the clear winner. It’s compact and easy to carry, making it perfect for quick, on-the-go tasks. However, if you’re setting up for a longer-term project and can afford a little extra weight, an axe is better suited for heavier lifting.

2. Task Efficiency
For light tasks like splitting small logs, trimming branches, or doing a little carving, the hatchet shines. But if you need to process a lot of wood or tackle a larger project, like building a log cabin (or clearing a big area for your campsite), an axe is what you need to get the job done efficiently.

3. Easier To Handle
For beginners, a hatchet tool is easier to handle and control, especially if you’re working on small, precise tasks. While axes can be great for bigger jobs, as they require more skill and control, and are better suited for those with some experience.

4. Versatility
A hatchet is more specialized for smaller jobs, while an axe offers broader versatility, particularly for those serious about woodworking, carpentry, or large-scale outdoor projects.

Types of Axes and Hatchets for Camping and DIY Projects

When choosing between a hatchet or an axe, you’ll also want to consider the specific types of axes and hatchets available. Different designs serve different needs, whether it’s a camping hatchet that’s perfect for cutting small firewood, or a carpenter’s axe that’s ideal for precision work in wood. Some axes, like double-bladed throwing axes, also offer a fun, sporty twist if you’re looking to try your hand at target practice in your backyard.

Whatever your adventure, we've got you covered. Take a look at the variety of hatchets and axes available at our store today -both online and at our outlet in Ely, MN.