Axe Selection and Use

[@jonathanwilliams4348]

I can't think of a better survival instructor; humble yet full of knowledge and skill, this man is one high quality individual. God bless you and your family, Dave.

[@GabeMacDonnell]

For a bargain in a Swedish axe, check out axes by Hults Buks. They are the oldest axe maker in the world and their quality, steel and forging match SA Wetterlings, and come close to a good Gransfors Bruks, (some recent GB's have been mediocre...) Hults Bruks are usually labelled Hultafors or Husquvarna in the US, and it can be a little difficult to find all the models. Their Classic Forest, or Multi Purpose Axe are equivalent to the Swedish or Scandinavian Forest Axe, and cost about $65, not $130.

[@a_hedgehog]

out of all the wilderness survival videos I have watched, the method you demonstrated of wrapping a piece of rope around a log to chop it into smaller pieces is the most impressive thing I have seen. the next time I need to make a fire I will definitely use this method to save myself all kinds of time. thank you for this.

[@Will-Xaru]

Great video Dave, I recently received a gift from China which were a number of villager axes from small regions in China that are extremely remote, it's amazing how all across the world the design of the axe has stayed within certain parameters, it's a tool that anyone can use, strong or weak, big or small, you can wield it and generate a lot of force and do a variety of things with it. I used to be against axes, favoring travelling light with a small and large knife that I would baton with, but then I learned how to fix my own handles and now I carry an axe head with me in my BOB and camping bag so I always have an axe head with me that I can make a handle for even in the wilderness. It's such a versatile tool, the handle breaks you can just make a new one, the head will not break. Centuries old heads are still as good as brand new ones. I'd love to be able to send you a couple of unique axes I have. Thank you for all of your videos as always, I think you surely have already saved lives with your information. Even if it's just saving people from misusing an axe and chopping their leg off.

[@larryk113]

Nice video Dave. Your videos are the most informational out there.

[@glynslloyd]

Best axe comparison on KZbin by far - great work. I've got the Wetterlings Forest Axe, it's never let me down or failed to do the job.

[@NorthSurvival]

Great video Dave, clear and good explanations, and fun to see that you have almost all Wetterlings and Gränsfors Bruks axes, i love them both. I have the "Wetterlings Swedish Forest Axe" and got a great review on my channel. Happy new year from Sweden. /Andree.

[@canesser1]

Great discussion and review of skills Dave, appreciate you including the Northern Boreal in there where we live up here in the Great White North. The Canadian jam knot might work well with the rope trick too, real fast and easy.

[@sargefaria]

very thorough man, great job brother

[@DavidCanterbury]

Thanks Brother

[@LarryRobertsbc]

This was very informative. Great vid.

[@bushcraft2012]

Best axe selection video I've seen to date. Thanks again Dave!

[@henrypuyi5485]

Dave what a good video. I like the way you incorporate in a common sense manner the safety aspects of using the tools.

[@rogergraves3945]

Dave, I really appreciate your channel. All the information on gear and bushcraft techniques are always thoroughly and clearly explained. All videos a great help, and always interesting to watch.

[@aceprepperlangley6916]

i loved it all, I was very un-knowledgeable in regards to the uses of certain axes, you have enlightened me into a better idea of what axe to take with me. thanks Dave!!

[@jeffshultz2744]

Dave that was excellent! Couldn't help noticing the basket in your back pack.

[@bigben351427]

Wow I am so impressed by your knowledge and willingness to share what you know with others. You are truly a wealth of it. I am equally impressed by the value you offer both for your classes and the products in your store. You really seem to be offering great products at a fair price. I just had shoulder surgery and have not been able to sleep and have been watching all your videos. I would like to thank you for all you do for US and look forward to taking your basic class as soon as I am able with my son. I am physically handicapped and more than likely not be able to attain full qualifications but I look forward to learning as much as I can. Keep up the good work .

[@wyattoneable]

Your a natural at explaining things in such a way that is easy to understand. I've enjoyed your videos very much and always look forward to the next one.

[@wcknives]

Very good information Dave as usual. I heard some very good advice on axe safety from an old forester video. He said "the axe handle should never break the same plane as the ground". I thought that was very sound advice. Perhaps others could benefit from it as well. Thanks for sharing.

[@Patriot36]

That was very thorough. Thanks for posting it Dave!

[@IMDMAN2]

Great explanation of how to to choose an an ax an your reasons why Dave. Very new to Bush craft and have been learning tons here from you. I think i might try the Greenland ax. Looks like a quality piece of equipment at a good price point.

[@futuresonex]

Great video Dave! I have two axes that I really like a lot; a Husqvarna Multi-Purpose Forest Axe (26" & made by S.A. Wetterlings) and a Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe (19"). I've found both of them to be truly excellent tools, although when I first got it the Husky required a bit of sharpening to get that perfect edge. The GB was shaving sharp right out of the box. Of course, it also cost twice as much as the Husqvarna. The GB Small Forest Axe was the first axe I ever purchased. All I really knew about axes at the time was that they were for chopping wood and Ray Mears said the GB Small Forest Axe was a really good one. I've since learned a lot more, including a lot from you, and I've become a big fan of the far less expensive, but still hand-forged of Swedish steel, Husqvarna axes. That being said, I have never once regretted spending the money on the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe. Ray Mears was right; it's an awesome axe! For a smaller belt axe or tomahawk I've found that I like the Cold Steel Rifleman's Hawk. You have to work on it a bit when you first get it, but it's larger & heavier than most hawks and, consequently, cuts a lot better. For under $30 it's hard to beat!

[@liamaaronduran]

Love what your doing Dave really got hooked, changed my thinking on a lot about the outdoors and self reliance me and my oldest son (9 yr) really enjoy taking what we learned from your teachings out to the woods here in central Texas thanks .

[@jarodmorris611]

Watching you in your videos is like watching a fish practice swimming. This isn't a show for you. This is your life. I love it. Well done.

[@eper1875]

Excellent timing. I was debating on what ax I was going to purchase and I have decided on a hunters ax. Thanks, you have saved me some money because I was leaning towards a small ax and I would not have been happy with that purchase.

[@daveinohio9383]

Dave, your usual best here in this vid !!! Thanks for bring back the stuff that was in my head somewhere... from a long time ago !!!

[@charlieplaza]

I wish I could finally escape from the city and live somewhere that allows campfires, chopping wood, hunting for food, etc. My desk job keeps me tied to the damn city and I don't even know what I would do for a living "out in the mountains" so to say. I really like your videos, even if I don't get to use this information it's great hearing it. Keep 'em coming!

[@knifemaker2472]

Another great video. Your explanations as they pertain to whatever environment I may be in, versus another, are spot on. We must be adaptable, and our equipment as well, but not be overburdened by single-use/task-specific tools, that may be the wrong choice.

[@dadladbushcraft7524]

Fantastic & informative video. Always look forward to your KZbin updates. Personally i am always impressed by your knowledge & honesty when reviewing but more so by your perfect manners . You always remember to thank your staff etc. (Keep up the good work Sir)

[@Timber-Wolf]

Just to echo all the other comments, Great info, clear, concise and educational. Thanks Dave :) Also love that you included the safety tips. Those were passed to me by my Father when I had to chop the firewood.

[@grupogatodomato]

Excellent my brother. Congratulations for the video. Beautiful collection. Love axes, hatchets and tomahawks. A big hug from southern Brazil.

[@atranger1944]

Good video Dave. Let's see some axe camping !

[@Peachwhaler26]

Very good video Dave, just what I needed. I have used a large fixed blade for years for my wood needs, but axes have always interested me and I hope to dive into that realm soon. Keep safe out there.

[@Corcioch]

Great video - great tips and information. Thanks Dave.

[@LoneWolf_prep]

Great stuff! Started using my forest axe more and getting more proficient with it, so this vid is a great help.

[@robertkoontz7865]

One of the best conservation of energy tips I've seen in bush crafting. Tied rope around log.

[@JoseChung21]

Dave - I can't tell you how helpful this video was. Very well done and well thought out. I'd like to see a video on your thoughts on a large belt knife and a saw versus carrying a 19 inch axe. Love the new show by the way. Take care.

[@kirkjoshua1958]

Opinions are like axes,there are a ton out there. But a honed woodsmen chooses quality...not because they look cool but because they get the job done. I choose a 19inch hunters Gb for a all around the house getter'done tool...and I Light,Cook,and Heat my cabin with fire for my family. Thank you mr.Dave for the super cool video! Keep em'coming brother!!!

[@sirandrew8808]

Thanks for this video, I'm just getting into bushcraft and was planning on just a medium fixed blade. Then I got out there and started experiencing, yeah a fixed blade knife may be able to baton wood but it's one pain in the ass to prepare enough wood for all night let alone multiple nights. I think the 19in Gransfors Bruks would be just right for my area.

[@1koolhick]

Excellent video. The rope trick was very cool,beats chasing it.

[@davewhipplevideo]

Hey Dave, great video. As for a great "common man" hatchet , the Vaughan sh2 is IMO a really nice little unit. It has a very thin cutting bevel , can hold a pretty good edge..and its cheap. I like a longer handle than the one that comes with it from the factory though. And they are made in the U.S.A. last I knew. Great job, love to see all the great axes!

[@jorgamund07]

I'm constantly amazed at how much great education Dave gives us on KZbin. Greatly appreciated! Also, do you have any thoughts on alternate cutting tools, like machetes, parangs, or kukris? Not to replace the axe in felling trees or splitting wood. But down south where the wood never freezes, they're kind of standard for path cutting and clearing brush around a camp site, which axes don't do as well. They also work pretty well for processing tropical and sub-tropical trees like palms and fruit-bearers.

[@dougallen7890]

Just ordered, Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe. Can't wait to use it.

[@NoogaNewb]

Thanks, Dave. I'd like to see how you are teaching axe safety/skills to children. As a dad I would really appreciate it. Thanks again.

[@seanrich1367]

Very nice video Dave, Thanks

[@tomsmestead1012]

Dave, Since I have a woodstove to feed, I have a variety of axes, including an heirloom broadaxe used to build log cabins by my great uncles in Idaho back in the 1930's. When woodsloafing I pack either a traditional tomahawk on my belt or my Norlund hatchet, unless I'm setting up a semi-permanent camp.Then I'd go over to a single bit axe.Own a double but never much cared for it.

[@nativepsychoman]

Great topic Dave. Can you please tell us about the boot/ moccasins you are wearing?

[@0pushit]

Great info on selecting sturdy axe handles

[@chewyandjasper]

Great video as always. Wanted to say that in my neck of the woods....a Gransfors Small Forest axe is what i carry....easy to carry...fine steel...and big enough for the small trees that i have to work with. I live in northwest Kansas and trees are a bit far and "in be tween" if you know what i mean... I think you are so right about the fact that it depends on where you live, Bless you and your family my friend and teacher....

[@themoodybobby1]

when we burned wood all the time to heat pure old house i kept an old tire at the wood pile and filled it with wood to split and split it that way then filled the cart. very informative video as usual.

[@Lars1540]

Dave I think a lot of people would love it if you could possibly do a video discussing the advantages and disadvantages of a belt axe vs. machete/large knife. Maybe some demonstrations would help people understand your reasoning better too? My reason for asking for this video is because I really agree with the point you made at 10:35 where you talk about a good belt knife and baton being able to basically do everything a hatchet can effectively do, which is the same reason I don't choose to carry a hatchet anymore, however I've found that even here in Massachusetts, I prefer to carry a basic 18" machete for my larger chopping tasks due to a couple reasons: 1. Mainly the weight - the machete is much lighter than carrying a larger boy's axe on my back. 2. If I choose to go off trail, I find a machete more useful for bushwhacking than an axe to clear trail and ultimately camp sight. Personally, I try not to cut anything down larger than about 4"-5" tops! So I find the machete to serve me a little better than a boy's axe. But I would love it if you could show or teach me anything new that might compel me to change and carry a heavier boy's axe! I really love it when someone can blow my mind and change my way of thinking. =)

[@Lars1540]

Pete Privitere not necessarily. The better your technique, the more you can accomplish in a short period of time.

[@Lars1540]

Pete Privitere True. But hatchets are heavier than a knife and more awkward to carry than a knife. If the knife can still accomplish what a hatchet can, then I'm taking the lighter and more easily carried knife.

[@dibdevlon]

Dave I have a Gränsfors Bruks small forest axe(Christmas present and love it). Any suggestions on what I could wrap around the handle to prevent it from being so slippery. Not sure if its the linseed oil or the size of my paws(or handle which seems to be a bit small in diameter) but I just don't seem to get able to get a good purchase. Thanks and enjoy your informative videos.

[@akn7able]

I carry a belt knife and a tomahwk and a folding saw for two reasons. I have Cerebral palsy and bulging disc in my back, so I try to pack as light as I can. Dave thanks for doing these videos I always learn something.

[@nettos75]

I took a Gransfors Small forest axe - 19", into the Sipsey wilderness in Alabama for a 4 day trip, and it was clear after the first day that I should have brought my Gransfors Scandinavian - 25"... I was absolutely wore out processing what we needed to cook and dry out with that 19" axe. All because I was trying to shave some weight. Never again. I am more comfortable using a longer/heavier axe combined with my belt knife anyway. I should have went with my gut on that in the first place. I like that rope idea. Great vid.

[@nettos75]

Stoney Lonsome Yeah the Sipsey is a great place. I love it there.

[@urbanfoxbayane]

Excellent information as always. Thanks for the education.

[@maritimespook]

Awesome video Dave that rope trick was genius,,,cheers from Canada brother !

[@ClintonsK]

10,000 views.... On an axe Why hasn't a TV channel snapped you up Dave? Really appreciate all the tutorials and info you freely add up here... That's why within our circle you're known as Sir Dave

[@marsella2012]

Seems that you know much about history of American toolmaking as well as quality of the tools, Dave. I have a question: I recently purchased Hibbard axe head at an antique store. Couldn't find any information on it, was wondering if you could help. I'd like to know if it's worth reworking to use as a hatchet in the woods. Thank you.

[@3DeltaOutdoors]

Brother, is that Greenland pattern from Condor the 1.5 Pound or 2.25 pound head? I have seen advertisements for both and was wondering. it would make a great ,inexpensive axe for a starter or say a troop of Scouts. Thank you for what you do and teach.

[@markbeaudon8852]

Dave - watching you on Dual Survival on Discovery World...Absolutely great!

[@Subsilent00]

Great videos, Dave! I live in the southern woodlands. While I was in the woods this summer, I found an Indian axe head, formed from stone. I don't no what type of stone it is, it isn't like the rocks around here. It has a sharp end and a blunt end. What I want to do with it is put it on a handle. I guess I will use hickory that goes into a Y and then rope that off. I would like some advice from you on it. If you respond, maybe I can send you some pictures of it.

[@attackmidgets]

Thanks for this video. I was just looking into getting an axe for this upcoming backpacking season. Love your videos Dave.

[@karlroberts1827]

Loved that ‘rope trick’. Keeps the wood together to be carried easier. Thanks.

[@EatCarbs]

Great video Dave.. Thanks.

[@DanShawDenverhomeremodel]

As usual, another useful video. Thank you Dave

[@ericsmith1508]

that was a neat trick with the rope around the log! I do something similar with kindling processing. I saw a limb (usually dead if available) about wrist thick, near the trunk of the tree. Length I saw the limb to depends on how long I want my kindling. then a start splitting the limb just like you did against the anvil stump, tie some cordage around the middle to bundle it, then saw it off at the trunk. VOILA! kindling bundle ready to travel!

[@1crimm]

thanks Dave

[@00Klingon]

Good info. Can you please do a video on how to replace the handle on an axe or hatchet? I have an antique carbon steel hatchet I inherited but the handle is a little loose and seems like it could be a safety issue. Thanks!

[@timjohnson7388]

I've replaced a few of those, but the problem is proper fit.. Some of the really old heads do not fit into the current handles. Most likely you will have to cut/sand a handle into shape to fit an older axe...it should fit tight before wedges are added and I would suggest lots of bees wax as a help..

[@cowboy7x]

Great vid brother. Is that a pair of Dyer Mocs I see on your paws Dave?

[@serpentmaster08]

Dave, I was curious. In multiple videos you mention about run off and a mix of heartwood in the handles. When you order for your store, do you take the same steps to choose the appropriate axes that you sell on your website (straight grain handle)? I've been looking at the Condor Axe for a bit and was curious if you did the selection process before you stocked your store. Much appreciated as always! - Kevin

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

Dave, theoretical discussions aside, I could totally see the merit in a jack knife/pack axe combo. In modern times, for hunting, do you think that's an ideal combo around our woods? Deer, Bear, Boar...all should be able to be processed with an axe and smaller knife, no? When I processed my first buck, I used my Scout and my Norlund Hudson Bay. I was thinking that my BHK Drover (3" blade) would've been better for the field dressing.

[@cloverncross]

A great video Dave you are ten kinds of cool brother! thank you for all your time and effort.Steve

[@shanebowie5704]

Thank you for the video you did an amazing job as always. Any good tips for how to carry and transport fire wood?

[@DavidJelsma]

Thanks Dave! Important topic!

[@jmarth523]

Great vid. I just wanted to add 1 correction, GBA and S.A. Wetterlings both use steel under .6 carbon content. That is not saying that the heat treat on the Condor is better because it has more carbon, but it has higher carbon than the other two manufacturers.

[@MikeJones-vb1me]

Nice collection!

[@woguph]

Dave, I grew up cutting firewood and splitting it to heat the house. What you are calling a felling axe looks more like a boys axe to me. I think of a felling ax as a three pound plus head and 32-36" handle. We normally used double bit axes. We ground both edges fine and just had two surfaces to use before resharpening. A way to learn about your axes and hatchets is to find a downed tree and start cutting it up and splitting it. I rotated my tools for each section. One thing I learned is that a hatchet plus a baton is very effective, safe, and easy to use. I enjoyed the video.

[@DavidCanterbury]

As I said this is a small felling or Forest Axe, you are correct there are larger axes for sure I have a couple but they are truly beyond the scope of carrying without conveyance-

[@bossmodus5020]

Thanks Dave 👍

[@derrickisbell3831]

Love your videos dave. What's your thoughts on a fiberglass handle brother

[@ChrisFoley0803]

Very informative and nice rope-trick !

[@RDM-fc6rd]

All that imfo helps alot. Great video! Cant wait for more.

[@MichaelTravis12c27]

Great video Dave. Clear, concise and informative. Thank you for posting it.

[@connormyron.5366]

i already have the wetterlings small hunting axe and im really liking it but im looking to buy some land for firewood so ive been looking at the wetterlings forrest axe so this helped alot, thank you.

[@DClient]

Great stuff Dave, I've been holding off on purchasing an axe cuz I wasn't sure which one to buy. I think I'm good to go now. I'll visiting the pathfinder store soon!

[@caleb4165]

great video could you do a video on replacing / crafting a axe handle in the field

[@DannoCrutch]

Excellent Video, Dave. I just bought a Council Tool Velvicut Hudson Bay Axe. About 24 inches long. I'll look to see if you reviewed it. Good 5160 steel, and it seemed like a good mix of cutting and splitting for when I only have one axe. Would like to know your opinion if you have any experience with it. Stay Well. Hope the New Year is great for you, and yours.

[@mysss29]

I think this is the axe video I've been waiting for for a long time. That trick with the rope is so slick. Makes me think about how fat wood is sold in bundles....

[@Dragonmage967]

Great stuff here, never would have even considered the rope trick to keep the wood from going everywhere.

[@zackfredrickson5398]

thanks for that video Dave. I live in north WI i think i would get a bush ax but im not sheer it has been freezing hear -27 at knight.

[@LoneWoodpecker]

Thanks, Dave, great info. All the best!

[@nettos75]

Also wanted to add real quick - I had a reply asking about whether or not I considered a quality saw. I can't find the comment to reply directly to it... I agree about having a good saw. It's definitely an important piece of gear to have, especially on an extended trip. I had one with me, which is another reason I only took a 19" axe. I figured a saw, smaller axe, knife + all the deadfall laying around, no prob. But most of it was so rotten, it just fell apart and was too bad off to sustain a fire. So we ended up having to fell a lot more standing deadwood than we thought. Never know what an environment or trip will throw at you, lol.

[@JGrous]

Great information in this video Dave! I really like that rope technique. I used it after the first time you showed it in a previous video. I think from last year? Anyway u have a great selection of tools man. I'm going to be getting either a new granfurs or wetterlings on Friday from your store. Haven't decided which I'd like to get yet.

[@alzathoth]

a bungie cord works well for holding logs together for splitting too. :)

[@timtrain35]

Another awesome video Dave, any opinions on double bit axes?

[@raybladen7290]

neat idea for use of the rope. did you come up with that?

[@andybraibish102]

Hello Dave, I am a really big fan and would like to say i enjoyed seeing you on dual survival. i was wondering if you have a video on tracking? and happy new years man. :)

[@GWHcraig1088]

Dave, what are your thoughts on the Fishers line of axes? I have a set I use at home and around the shop and really like them. have you ever tried them?

[@blokefromthebush]

Hey Dave. Love the channel. Can you please recommend a axe for working with heavy Australian hard wool like redgun, jarrah, and mulga.

[@planejet42]

Nice video! I would love to pick up a Gränsfors Bruks axe.

[@billlittleton7894]

lot of information, great job, keep up the great work

[@ArcherADK]

Hey Dave, I noticed you have a new knife on your store (The White Bush Knife). Can we be expecting a video on that soon?

[@Shannon_Lacey]

Nice collection, and thanks for the demonstration and tips on axe usage. I just refinished the handle on my Condor. I'll probably do a video on it soon. Do you think it necessary to thin down the cheeks on the Condor, or just sharpen it and leave it the way it is?