Know How CAMPCRAFT | TECHNIQUE | FOOD | EXPERT TIP | GEAR | CANOE TREE


IT’S HOW YOU SWING IT. PHOTO: MICHAEL MECHAN


[ IN THE PACK ] A Cut Above


1 1/4-Pound Camp Axe www.homedepot.com • $19


For the functional feller, the Rockforge Camp Axe is cheap and simple. If you’re looking for something to take care of quick kindling splitting, this cut-rate option is probably all you need. The fiberglass handle is indestructible and does a decent job of reducing shock. However, this quality of blade requires more maintenance and at just 16 inches long, fatigue sets in quickly.


GR A NSFOR S BRU K S


Small Forest Axe www.canadianoutdoorequipment.com • $120


Two thirds of Sweden is covered in forest so it’s no surprise that the folks at Gransfors Bruks build beautiful axes. The Small For- est Axe’s hickory handle is 19 inches long—an excellent balance between achieving a powerful swing and easy packing. Each well-balanced blade has a three-and-a-quarter-inch face and is stamped with the initials of the smith who forged it—a symbol of the small company’s dedication to craftsmanship.


40 SPRING 2013 GER BER


Camp Axe II www.gerbergear.com • $52


The Gerber’s advantages are clear-cut. The 17-inch nylon glass, non-slip handle feels comfortable and light. The blade is ground and coated with a non-stick coating to power through wood, performing impressively well for its price point. And unlike the precision-crafted, purpose-built specialty axes we swung, we had no qualms using the Camp Axe II to hammer in pegs or leaving it out next to the woodpile overnight. —Michael Mechan


FOUR CAMP AXES CHOPPED DOWN TO SIZE ROC K FORG E


B E ST MA DE CO.


Hudson Bay Axe www.bestmadeco.com • $135


As American as apple pie and baseball, Best Made Co. is a back- to-basics, mom and pop outfit from New York. Their vision is to create tools to be passed down for generations, empowering people to work with their hands. The biggest of the bunch at 21 inches long, the Hudson Bay provides confidence in control and swings effortlessly. An ideal pick for those looking to chop larger wood and work for longer, its last cut is just as deep as its first.


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