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I know this much I would rather have an ax if I were having to make a semi to perm shelter. Besides that, the SOD is great right now. However, I sure would like to try a DF or a Battle Mistress!


I have to agree that a (key word) "GOOD" axe is still a better tool for many tasks than a large chopping knife.

However, it comes down to situation. Often carry vs. not carry.

And if carry, I will EASILY choose a knife over an axe.
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My camp knife is a Bravo-1 or S6. I have tried chopping with a knife and was once a proponent of it... Until I bought my GB Small Forest Axe. In my humble opinion and experience, there is no comparison in chopping between a large knife and a good quality/sharp axe. My largest knife now is my S6. I had a DFCG and a very well used Battle Mistress that I sold. The GB small forest axe is only 19" and a small weight penalty over my Battle Mistress, yet it will out chop the Mistress 3 to 1 or better. If I am light packing, I make do with the S6. I can baton and light chop with it if I need to. If I don't mind the extra weight, I'll have the axe in my pack with the Bravo-1 on my side. I went through a delima for a while trying to decide if I wanted to replace my S6 with my SOD, but the S6 is still with me.