This shouldn't even be a debate! Choose the right tool! Axe or Tomahawk

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Stay in the Woods,
Dan

[@drewsteffen8166]

The tomahawk was a light tool and a weapon, that is what we need to remember. It was as useful as a knife in a pinch. If you look at the historical facts real axes were used on the home front and the tomahawk was used for skinning and light wood collecting in the field.

[@308dad8]

And in battle when you were out of loaded guns.

[@magicbeetle2292]

I mean yes , but most historical axes we'd call tomahawks today would have been considered primarily tools back in the head because even something like the trail hawk is heavy compared to special made weapons , they were used as belt axes and even a 1lbs tomahawk can fell a tree as thick as your leg with relative ease

[@caminodantoo]

Also it’s easier to carve a round poll for a tomohawk than an oval for an axe in an emergency. Tomahawks do not have fixed head and therefore can be taken down for carriage.

[@n8reo269]

I have a Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk and I love it. I don't throw it or anything but for a compact 22" "axe" it does very well. I gave it a convex grind, fixed up the handle, and made a sheath. If the handle breaks in the field, I can carve a new one. If a handle on an axe breaks in the field, you have a bigger problem.

[@andythebreadbaker9925]

​@@n8reo269 if the handle on your axe breaks, your camping trip or through hike is most likely over

[@compassrosebushcraft6702]

I generally use an axe for canoeing and base camps, however, I carry a tomahawk when lightweight hiking/camping. I separate the head to put safely in a side pocket of my pack, slide the handle into a small space internally in the pack. The weight and space taken is negligible, but the added cutting ability is great for fire set up and supplements/saves my knife. Thanks for the video.

[@hasufinheltain1390]

That's pretty much what I'm thinking. Normally I carry a pretty heavy fixed blade when backpacking, but Dan's made a solid case for an axe or tomahawk as my default tool, but an axe is a fair bit of weight, so a tomahawk is a fair compromise.

[@davidvaughn7752]

Agreed!

[@owenpowell102]

​@@hasufinheltain1390 that's what I do when I'm backpacking, I'll take my tomahawk and a small fixed blade knife, I find it to be more practical for me in the field than just a large fixed blade.

[@GodsSparrowSpeaks]

Same

[@brawndothethirstmutilator9848]

@compassrosebushcraft6702, That’s a system I’ve used before. I currently prefer a modern seaxe over a tomahawk though. My Skrama splits and chops at least add well as most tomahawks, and it handles detail tasks better. Also, it can be used as a draw knife.

[@darthhodges]

The light duty tasks you described can often be done just as well with a quality knife. Also, I work at an internet retailer that sells both and it is clear to me that the tomahawks we sell are made mostly for looks and not for practical use. By comparison almost all the axes we sell are made with function as a first priority. Do some research and keep that in mind when making a purchase.

[@kellydiver]

For multi-day campouts or basecamp activities, I carry a hatchet. For overnights or hiking, I carry a tomahawk with a hammer pole. The hawk is lighter - and my brother made it for me, so it’s sentimental. The only think it doesn’t do as well as a hatchet is splitting wood, but I can also do that with a knife, mallet, and wedges.

[@tycreps6407]

I said "that's what she said" in my head sooo many times! Lol! Great video!

[@ManInTheWoods76]

All the factors that he presented is the reason I chose the Fiskars 14" hatchet. It's the middle ground between the two and it's a forever handle.

[@nobodyatall7039]

The "biggest downfall" is resolved in 4 seconds with a strip of duct tape lol.

[@ROE1300]

👍 Good comparison. I have used both and agree with Dan’s choice, the axe is best; for all the reasons he mentions. I have several axes and the one I use depends on the adventure in front of me. The larger axe pretty much lives in my truck. The smaller, lighter Kephart style axe is normally with me (on my belt, on my haversack, or in my pack). In the 18th Century our forefathers also preferred the axe from diaries I have read and living historians I have listened to. Also, carving is generally done with an axe demonstrating this tool can be used for intricate work. Currently my favorite “all around” axe is the Kaltoff Carving Axe.

[@57WillysCJ]

I use both, the tomahawk is fine for me in warm weather. I switch out with a kuhkri at times. Many over the years complain about a hawk giving wrist and arm fatigue. The best thing is to practice using one for extended periods of time without a death grip. When it comes down to it everyone has to carry their own pack.

[@vanniewhite4291]

I put a few wraps of Gorilla tape on the handle instead of bank line. It doesn’t let the head slide down and you have the tape to use for various things such as fire starter, small repair or bandaid.

[@machinemaker2248]

It seems that the tomahawk head can be mounted to a handle in the same fashion as a hatchet, and thus have that same advantage.

[@jeffreyshreve1277]

As a Muzzleloader when I was a kid (7 to 17) I used the tomahawk for just about everything because it was a universal too. I have chopped down a tree or two with one but like you said, it doesn't have the weight needed. However it is crazy sharp and still gets the job done.

[@KingTesticus]

I've tried carrying both, and I like my 'hawk. The handle is 16 inches, friction fit, but that has never been a problem. I like being able to break the tomahawk down so it packs smaller. I suppose it could be a very nasty weapon, but truthfully, it isn't my "go-to" in my mind. I have a dedicated gadget for self defense and he has a dozen little friends packed in the handle, if-you-know-what-I-mean. When I am at home, then an ax is awesome, it's getting chillier up here in Nowhere, NH, and my short ax kinda lives next to the woodstove. But for the kind of hiking and camping I do, a tomahawk is more than ample for my needs.

[@verity33]

😂

[@davidwilkes3966]

Good video! I like seeing the pro's/con's from a bushcraft point of view. I agree that both tools have their uses. I have been including a tomahawk in my tool set for trail work (log-outs in the PNW) for the last 2 years. It works great for limbing and debarking trees prior to bucking as well as a number of other cutting tasks. It is a very versatile tool. Of course we also carry at least one axe for chores like chopping and driving wedges. It is interesting to see how many seasoned sawyers at first scoff at the tomahawk, but then end up using it, and a few have asked where they can get one of their own. (FYI for limbing, I have found any branch too thick for the tomahawk is probably best trimmed with a hand saw rather than an axe.) I would disagree with one point made in the video, and that is that I have yet to have the head come loose during use. I have only seen it come loose when the tool was being misused (and/or thrown).

[@texasjoe3261]

Excellent Presentation Dan !!!

[@feellnfroggy]

I will always carry a hawk. Simply because it’s for lightweight travel.

[@playnhrd]

Nice comparison. It helps that you vocalized all my thoughts about the differences. Well done.

[@victorhausauer3018]

Due to my climate, the south, I am not in need of the heavy axe due to not needing to process large wood. That said I can definitely see the axe being needed in colder climates. I carry a crkt chogan tomahawk for the flat hammer on the back and a folding saw, which covers everything I need. That just goes to show the thought processed I used in choosing my cutting tools. Obviously it's different for all.

[@yellowdog762jb]

I love axes and hatchets, and I have way more than I can justify for my climate and activities. I'm on the Gulf Coast, and a full axe is seldom necessary here. If I take an axe into the woods, it's usually a 3/4 axe, or a hatchet. I more often reach for a machete for almost everything except splitting firewood. I'm often alone in a remote, off grid area, and I feel that the more tasks that I can do with something other than an axe, the safer I am. But at home in the 'burbs, I'll break out one of my restored vintage axes every chance I get!

[@gerardmartyn1738]

Love a small axe. Thanks for sharing all of your great videos. 👍

[@ronaldrose7593]

Hello 👋 Dan, the answer man for all things outdoors. Thank you for sharing this informative video. Stay safe out there. 🤗 🖐

[@Hillbilly973]

Really good, knowledgeable and experienced content, great personality, without acting like a hero. Would love to come to your school. JT from downunder.

[@jasongarling20]

Dan, I love the video first. But 2nd... I appreciate you taking time to show and tell!

[@eloquentsarcasm]

I've had a tomahawk for ages, with a spike on the tail end for digging. I've trained with it for years since the Army, so I think of it as almost a combat tool as well as general use. For heavy cutting I prefer to use a saw, with a standard issue E Tool for any digging for trenches/ pits.

[@jbkibs]

the hammering function, which you displayed, of the axe is another important aspect when bush crafting- pounding stakes.. etc..

[@VernonWallace]

Great points. Thank you

[@bryantcs0]

I’m glad you mentioned handle replacement in field.

[@davidreed8219]

Good video Dan. Thanks for the info

[@metted2745]

I like ’em both. I usually end up with a small ax or hatchet. But, tomahawks are fun!

[@JTOTHEW3000]

Purchased your Polish Camp Shovel. Its a wonderful well made kit. I appreciate it. God Bless and Be well...

[@ianbruce6515]

The hawk is great for lightweight travel. That is the determining factor. There is absolutely no need for cutting up trees into logs and splitting them for firewood when traveling light.

[@scottbouve8078]

Great advice as always !!

[@rogueraven7603]

Also depends on how much you think you’ll use it versus the weight you carry.

[@billlyell8322]

Personally, and this is situational for me. I prefer the tomahawk as it allows me to use optional heads in a smaller package. I have the option for the axe head, froe, adze, digging tool. Being a smaller guy I tend to go for more finesse than power through it. If I'm going to do heavy work I'll use a chain saw.

[@victorhausauer3018]

If you don't mind me asking, where did you find the combination kit for the froe, adze and such? I've been looking for that type of option.

[@Ghost_Os]

@@victorhausauer3018 Same here.

[@LShapedAmbush]

Good stuff, thanks!

[@JefCollier]

I think what I love most about Dan sharing his opinion is just how clear he is that it's merely an opinion and why.

[@MatthewPhillips-il2vq]

Always love your content brother. You have your own unique teaching style that resonates with me. Too many Dave Canterbury clones on KZbin regurgitating what they read in bushcraft101. Keep up the great work!

[@NikosKatsikanis]

love these formats

[@americanfreedom2324]

Probably not a good idea, but just something I do because an old timer showed me. To keep the hawk head on tighter, soak the head and handle in water for a while. The wood swells and grips the head tight.

[@BBQDad463]

Thank you for this video. Very interesting and worthwhile discussion. If forced to choose one and only one for the rest of my life, I would take the axe.

[@jaysotak3203]

Good info thanks

[@ramblynrocketeer]

You said it!! Gonna take Both 👍

[@dawnbaker9763]

I have a harbor freight hickory handle I got for $7 bucks 3 years ago and it's my EDC on my bag , no kidding, actually fits my hands and holds a edge pretty good.

[@odbarner9375]

Once again you have brought pertinent information to your followers. I’m never disappointed with your videos. Makes me wish I could still get out in the woods. Keep up the good work.

[@starlingblack814]

Thanks Coalcraker for the comparison. If I went out into the woods to build a cabin; certainly would choose an axe (what about a saw), for backpacking an axe, probably overkill. I've seen Alaskan Natives butcher carabou and salmon with an ulu (not unsimilar to your hand-held tomahawk). I guess it depends on what you want to do. As for me, a hawk, a saw, and a few knives.

[@bighammer587]

The other advantage of the axe over the tomahawk that I didn’t hear you mention is that you can pound stakes, nails, etc. And you even demonstrated that when you fixed the loose head on your tomahawk!

[@consideringorthodoxy5495]

Lots of tomohawks have a hammer back. Not to mention that hammering a nail with an axe is overkill. Tomohawk is much closer in weight to a normal claw hammer. Both tomohawks and axes can be used to make a mallet with greater weight for driving large steaks into the ground.

[@warlock.420]

Your hawk head has sharp edges that are cutting into your handle, preventing a solid friction fit. Tomahawk is a light tool with a handle design that is easy to remake in the field. Ask yourselves this if I were lost in the winter and it's raining with one would be faster to fix if the handle broke.

[@grbdevnull5611]

I like a long handled (18 - 24 inches) hatchet. You get some of the weight benefits of the tomahawk with the more secure handle of the axe. That said, I rarely need to deal with anything larger than about 4 inches in diameter since I'm unlikely to be doing true bushcraft.

[@8chohgee135]

Friend of mine pointed me to this video and this channel. I told him I had ditched a previous channel cause I tired of the whining, crying, and complaining I had to deal with every freaking week. Well ..... that, and the strangely suddenly bloated ego of the content creator. My buddy pointed me here yesterday. Glad he did. Subscribed. I look forward to checking out your catalog and your future content.

[@robertrubel]

Thanks Dan. A good informative video My hardcore survivalist hatchet is the best all-around hatchet/ax for.

[@JO-rk5gu]

Is that the one Shawn from CC has been advertising?

[@robertrubel]

@@JO-rk5gu Yes it is the same one Shawn has. I got one on sale. I’m often using a hammer and a hatchet so this fit the bill perfectly. I also like the 18” handle.

[@JO-rk5gu]

@@robertrubel Thanks for the reply, I am gonna go ahead and get one

[@lostintransit3359]

Personally, i like my CRKT Woods Chogan over a standard axe head. Ive had it for a few years now and it hasnt failed me yet. Its never slipped out of my hand during chopping or splitting and ive never had the head loosen while using it. Its definitely a personality preference, but as someone born and raised in the Pennsylvania Appalachian Mountains and now having moved to Colorado, im glad i got my tomahawk with me. Its been through a lot of wood just since coming to Colorado last year. The camping and hiking is absolutely beautiful.

[@ostekuste3646]

I’m never doing heavy chopping out in the woods. I carry a Silky saw and a Council Tool Woodcrafter hatchet. The hatchet is kept as sharp as my belt knife. I can process firewood as big as I need for a campfire, make small projects, feather sticks, split kindling, etc. I’ve even used it quite easily to clean fish and small game. To my mind I never need to chop up wood more than three or four inches in diameter, I’m not building a log cabin.

[@patw8333]

I've taken to carrying a roofing hatchet as a light weight alternative to both. Not traditional, but it works well for me.

[@codyashelton9634]

I think head geometry plays a big role as well. The slimmer profile of a tomahawk head makes a huge advantage in my experience. I have used and prefer the tomahawk over a one handed axe.

[@GodsSparrowSpeaks]

Agreed. And environment - 1. Type of woods/forest 2. Altitude Reason being is in thick brush hiking and/or portaging, keeping weight and bulk minimal is best And is one in a forest of hardwoods, or scrub oak and sage, pine and fir…makes a big difference Altitude determines max weight one carries - if I’m going to be 10-14k versus 6500-9k, I want less weight

[@cayetanocanales7662]

Thx for the vid.

[@davefarnsworth3020]

I love all of my axes, however I have a trade hawk that stays with me wherever I go. It is properly made of a good high carbon steel, heat treated, profiled and razor sharp. It has been there to help open roads in the springtime. If needed, I can square up to 8" timbers and build a house with it.

[@jasonhardin8383]

In Boy Scouts, we were taught to bring a hatchet. Then taught, that you could use the hatchet to cut a beach of the correct size, lash the hatchet to the branch, after prepping the branch (remove bark and look for defects), and swing at 1/3 to 1/2 strength, to use it as an axe. I'm fairly sure, this isn't being taught any more.

[@k9six185]

I have a 1.5 pound Norlund Hudson bay pattern on a 26” straight hickory handle….that is my workhorse

[@magicbeetle2292]

As someone who loves friction fit axes, you forgot the part of where you can make a longer handle for a stronger swing for felling or bucking easier. And the separate cutting tool idea does work but It's weird and it's a lot of push cutting with your thumb

[@badger31738]

Great video

[@SKBlues]

My tomahawk handles don’t come loose when I’m using them….it helps to know how to fit a Hawk handle….thanks for the video!!!👍👍

[@jfilm7466]

In winter I mostly use folding saw or "chain saw" with small fixed blades and a GF Wildlife Hatchet as last resort. In -35°c like lots of small controlled movements.

[@ravendon]

Tomahawk is more useful. Lighter, you can make a new haft with the tomahawk head, where you need a second tool to craft a handle for an axe. The tomahawk can process all the firewood I need, and is a better weapon. I have never had to fell a tree while bush crafting. If I need to I use a chainsaw.

[@19ghost73]

My personal choice: A large fixed-blade knife and a medium-sized folding saw. My outdoor & bushcraft activities don't have felling large-diameter trees or attacking other tribes as a routine component.😂

[@kurtcranford3045]

you can always put a screw into a screw into the metal head or into the handle up against the head

[@fletchdad8755]

I carry a Hello Werk package when I hike in and camp for longer than a day . I usually take a two week camping trip each year .

[@serkanst15]

Best explanation on tube

[@leehiller2489]

I find carrying a Michigan axe, a medium hatchet and a medium adz makes my trips easier and more enjoyable. They are worth the extra weight for me to have the right tool for the job at hand.

[@HardOnGearChannel]

Hard to argue with any of that 👌

[@GordonCodyDixon6591]

Have you thought about bringing back live Q&A

[@howarddoerksen6552]

This all makes good sense, however, for me, a comparison of a tomahawk vs a typical hatchet would help more. I use a GB Wildlife hatchet and I can’t see swapping it for anything else when it comes to medium-light duty.

[@davidvaughn7752]

Here's what determines if you carry an axe or a tomahawk (hatchet): are you packing a cast iron skillet? If yes then take the axe, you're not going far or deep and it's highly likely your just going to be out practicing your boutique bushcraft skills you learned on KZbin or at the seminar with all that other gear your instructor is hustle'n on his Etsy or Ebay channel.

[@jessiepayne737]

Now time to decide

[@VTPSTTU]

I'd love to have each, but I don't have any trees anywhere near my home.

[@hemanttripathi3175]

Nice one

[@Mrhalligan39]

A tomahawk is a weapon that can be used as a tool. A flat head axe is a tool that can be used as a weapon. If you want a tool, use an axe.

[@deepsticksbushman8698]

I totally agree with you on the axe over the tomahawk. The tomahawk is cool and everything. But an axe is more practical for me

[@erolkavlakverizon6112]

I use an axe. When i need something smaller I use a hatchet. My in-between is a camp axe..shorter handle with a lighter head, it's also great for limbing. Thanks Dan for another great vid.

[@coldwarrior78]

Loved the video. For my situation, I almost never carry an axe. I don't cut big timber and make only small fires. For years, I carried only a machete and it served me well. I have recently begun carrying a hawk and I have found it very handy. I can pound tent stakes with the poll on the back side as well as chop and split any firewood I need with the business end. If you need big wood, you need an axe. If you don't, try a hawk.

[@RandoCalrisiann]

I carry both at times, just depends. Love my light hawk, love my OLD marbles #9 Hatchet, and going bigger I'll take my Gransfor with me.

[@dribrom]

Yes, it's debatable depending on where in the world you're going to use it. The colder climate you're in the slower the trees grows. The slower the tree grows the harder the wood will be.

[@allanjarnagin3540]

* checks trousers * That explains that, I guess

[@mixmediaproductions]

I go saw logs unless it's a dead tall tree. Bring it back and use a camp axe to split the arm sized wood.

[@benchase7537]

It's interesting that on paper, it seems like choosing a hatchet is a no brainer. But so many people end up going with the trade axe/tomahawk anyways. There is much more to it than appears and people severely misunderstand its potential role in a kit. Assuming you are using it in the parameters it is designed for, it excels. There is a reason the trade axe was used consistently for 150+ years by frontiersmen. Also two things to note, cutting your handle short on a tomahawk severely impacts its leverage and versatility as a tool and the head coming loose isn't an issue if its fitted properly. Those Cold Steel hawks are more of a "project" axe and don't arrive in working shape. Once fitted properly with a good handle, you shouldn't have any issues with it coming loose.

[@MikeNewman-ss3kq]

I agree with all the cutting uses. Although you can always use a stick to baton with, I would say the ability to pound/hammer would also be an advantage for the axe.

[@dcongdon2294]

You can get bye with a teaspoon BUT give me a TABLESPOON just a thought.

[@KazeNoSuke]

Used a tomahawk for years when motorcycle touring, because I was an immature noob, and they were cool. 1. As the man said, modern tomahawks are meant for throwing, and handles break, so the axe head slides on and off for easy replacement; instead of being fixed in place. Having to re-seat the head repeatedly SUCKS when cutting wood. I have one with a set-screw in the head but that doesn't fix the next issue. 2. Tomahawks tend to have a concave profile, which sticks deep into wood, but hard to get out. 3. Throwing hawks, like the Cold Steel versions, are made of inferior steel compared to quality hatchets. 4. Some throwing hawks actually have a downward facing edge, so when chopping, the upper tip contacts first not the full edge. 5. Pipe tomahawks are garbage for cutting and smoking out of. Hatchets are designed for chopping so the steel quality tends to be superior, the heads stay on much better, shape is made for the job. If you're a 25 year old "Warrior" (in your head) then get yourself some feathers ... and a proper hatchet.

[@darylsarbaugh3491]

Axe heads are friction fit too. They just achieve friction by pounding in a spacer either wood or metal very similar to most wood handled garden tools (shovel, hoe, rake, spade, etc) as well as framing hammers.

[@jessejohns4783]

I'm a tomahawk guy. If I'm homesteading, I'd definitely prefer an axe, but out backpacking or a weekend car camping trip, I prefer the tomahawk. Although, I have the Condor Bushcraft Tomahawk designed by Joe Flowers. To me its the best of both worlds and only weighs 2lbs 3 oz in the leather sheath and sling.

[@andythebreadbaker9925]

To make the tomahawk more 'permanent' on the handle, wrap two or three layers of paper around where the hawks eye typically sits on the handle. I use left over mail. Glue the paper down with hot glue or super glue. The paper acts like a thin layer of wood on the handle increasing it's thickness ever so slightly. The hawk's head can still slide down from it's placement on the handle. But it takes much more effort and is more 'permanent' Rubbing alcohol can remove the glue if you need to take the paper off.

[@tearfull_blade]

were do hatchets come in?

[@danielhurst8863]

You can get axes that have all the benefits of a tomahawk for small work, such as the Council Tools. Camp Axe. It has a cut away for fine manipulation,so your hand can fit.

[@daveburklund2295]

I prefer a small(ish) axe with a tempered poll. All the benefits stated for the axe, plus a tool that will hammer anything I need hammered in the woods.

[@BUZZKILLJRJR]

I always carry a couple knifes and a hatchet mostly, sometimes an axe or machete. Sometimes you need a something bigger to swing at stuff. ("That's what she said")

[@shawnnorrell1686]

I look at a tomahawk as a weapon and an hatchet as a tool

[@inregionecaecorum]

I have a nice combination bearded axe and adze, at a pinch you can also use it as a hammer using the side of the eye.

[@zuschauer0815]

Hi, the tomahawk without handle is perfect for skinning. Looks and feels like an ulu, an Inuit knife.

[@MJGEGB]

As a regular user of slip fit axes there are some points that are off here. Tomahawk is just another word for axe. The original steel head tamahaacs had more wedge-like profiles. Look into Biscayne trade axes to get a better idea. Later versions meant for trade with native Americans started to use thinner blades to cut down on the cost of production and shipping. If the handle is fit properly the issue with the head coming loose will not occur similar to American patterns which will work loose if not properly hafted. I also think that slip fit heads are better suited to slightly softer woods than Hickory. The only one that I'm running a hickory handle on has given me the most issues with fitment. My most used one has been working fine on the factory handle which I believe is ash or similar for years. The hawk shown in the video had a shelf on the handle and high spots clearly visible which would prevent a solid fit friction or wedge. Set one up properly and they are useful for medium duty work, limbs and smaller stuff in the 2-8" range. They are easy to pack, work best with a longer handle, something north of 20" is a must IMO, and making a replacement handle for a hawk is much easier if for no other reason than you can use a wider variety of wood, much of which is easier to work with than hickory. As much as I love axes, the so-called tomahawk has proved itself to me. All I had to do was give it a fair chance. I highly recommend checking out Rinaldi for anyone interested in something meant for more than just throwing.

[@kevinbelport4926]

I have a Axe with a thinner blade on what some people use as a Hammer End. Works good for multi use in one tool.

[@mikef3808]

I think that much of the allure and use of the tomahawk was from game processing. Where detaching the head easily was then useful to use the tool in a manner similar to how one can use and ulu.

[@moorshound3243]

Summer small axe. Winter big axe. Done.

[@T37912]

Hi Dan, For once I have to disagree. I´ve always preffered the "lightness" of the tomahawk, it is more comfortable and therefor safer for me. However, I recently discovered the Varuusteleka Skrama 240 and now I replaced both the axe and the tomahawk by something that comes even more natural to me. I´m even considering buying the skramaa 200 for regular tasks and only break out the 240 for heavier tasks. We have to face it, we´re campers/bushcrafters, not lumberjacks (when was the last time any of us cut down a tree? We process firewood or project wood that´s a wrist thick) and almost none of us have enough experience (aka dailly use) for an axe. We have much more experience with knives (yes, we do use a knife much more often) so a heavy knife (sturdy machete) is, in my opinion, a more natural, comfortable choice. Kind regards Alain