The three Fiskars axes (including the branded Gerber Freescape) also feature quality construction, leaving little cause for concern. It's also meant to be an heirloom and is hand-forged using processes that are sustainable and treat workers fairly.

Axes/Hatchets Axes/Hatchets

If you're hunting for the best axe for camping, splitting wood, or cutting down trees, we swung 11 of the best to find the right one. If you want an axe that can do it all but excels at light-duty tasks, we can't argue with the Freescape's performance. Estwing hammers evolved first with a beautiful laminated leather grip and then in the late 1950’s with Estwing’s exclusive nylon vinyl deep cushion grip, molded directly to the steel shank.The plastic sheath is also surprisingly sturdy and handy, with an included nylon strap so you can sling it over your shoulder. Estwing hammers are known throughout the United States and the world as the first, finest and in most people’s eyes, the only one-piece solid steel forged hammer made. Editor's Note: We updated this review on May 2, 2023, to ensure the selection and recommendations were current.

Estwing Axe 4lb | Toolstation

The shock reduction grip that is on all hammers, axes, speciality tools and pry bar creates maximum comfort and durability for tradesmen and craftsmen alike.They work exceedingly well and are a welcome break from our testing consultant's normally massive splitting maul. After all, the X11 and the Norden were made for it, with the cutting edge curving up to a convex wedge. The shorter but very similar Gerber Freescape is also balanced and easy to put where you want, particularly given its compact size. The MTech, Estwing, Schrade, and Gerber are small enough to toss in a pack or loop through your belt.