I'm going to head to sears right now and pick up the fiskars hatchet, we'll see how it chops after I put on a proper convex on it.

Just picked up the Fiskars 14" hatchet and already played around with it. The standard V edge was good for splitting wood with a quick snap chop, but it wasn't so good for standard chopping. I took it to the grinder and convexed it, it now bites much deeper but doesn't split wood as well. I also flattened and polished the hammer poll up nicely. The steel is a tad bit on the soft side, but still one of the best $25 I've spent.

There's about 11" of hollow space in the handle, a standard bic lighter slides in nicely. Other things I'm considering: firesteel, fatwood, small fishing kit, whistle, razor blade, sharpening stone, and led light. Going to wrap the top part of the handle with paracord and hide some more stuff under the wrapping.

i might have to grab one too

Heh. Aside from value per dollar, the Fiskars hatchet also wins in that you can buy one NOW instead of waiting a week for shipping from an internet seller. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Do a full review if you get one, aye?

Man, another axe to look into. Thanks guys!

I collected some cut down trees last year that I've been meaning to chop into smaller pieces for firewood, finally got around to it.

The edge did roll a tiny bit since the initial convexing does thin it down. A minute later on the grinder, I got the edge super sharp again and a little bit thicker, all good from here on out.






Only damage to hatchet is the plastic piece behind the bevel, that's expected though since the wood has to sometimes travel pass this point. Shouldn't have any effect for a user.


Wrap the pieces with some paracord and I'm good for hauling it around.


The Fiskars hatchet is a workhorse, I should have picked one up sooner!

Next you'll be wanting to try out the other size models they make. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Looks like the Fiskars in a couple ( or 3) sizes in worth trying <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />. Tolly gave me some sharpening tips and also what to place in hollow handle.I ordered a couple of these and will pick up one or two of the more expensive at the Eugene Knife Show in April ( I think) . Really appreciate the input guys <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />. BTW- I also snagged an older Estwing so should be interesting <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />-Thanks <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Don't end it now!

C,mon guys- more ideas <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />- this thread needs OPINIONS and ideas from guys that are in the know <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Is there any real difference between the Fiskars and Gerbers?
In my travels I see Gerbers everywhere but the Fiskars not so much. Would it be worth it to get one over the other?

Gerber and Fiskars? Having several with each name, I see no difference other than the name as far as how they are made. IME, you'll find Fiskars at Home Depot and Lowes; you'll find Gerber at Bass Pro and Cabelas. Fiskars has the orange at the end of the handle, but you can paint them whatever colors you want.

If you want to store things in the handle, make sure those things can take the pounding or remove them before chopping.

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />



Please don't take this wrong... no argument or cutdown intended... but for the point of discussion...

Why would a group of guys who wait salivating for the next 5" $150-$500+ knife to be released by Busse Combat, Swamp Rat, or Scrap Yard balk at purchasing a $250+ axe like a Granfors Bruks??? Aren't Gransors Bruks axes legendary???

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/doh.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/footinmouth.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" />