Council Tool Camp Carver Hatchet Field Review

This is an in depth review of the Council Tool Camp Carver Hatchet. This little hatchet has a great looking design that really stood out to me when I first saw it. The design is functional not just for show.
I am glad to see that we have a choice for a US made production premium axe to choose from. Council Tool seems to really be stepping up to make a strong showing. I support that and that is one reason why I chose to purchase another of their axes along with the fact that it is a quality tool....and I have a slight axe addiction.
I have had mine on several outings from day hikes to multi night winter camping trips. It has done very well. I did initially redefine the edge a little as I cut a lot of downed pine for firewood. Cutting standing dead wood on public land requires a permit in my state so the best way to get dry wood is to find downed trees and cut the vertical branches. These downed trees are often wind blown or fire kill and sometimes thinned by forest workers. The tree tends to pump pitch into the branches and creates loads of pitch-wood that can be like cutting into epoxy or plastic. For this reason most of my axes, hatchets, hawks etc have a robust semi convex edge on them.
The 5160 steel on both of my Council Woodcraft axes has proven very resilient and tough. It tends to hold an edge very well and is easy to sharpen. The hardened poll holds up well to abuse from simple driving tent stakes to smashing rocks to get chunks to use for steel striker fire kits.
As stated on Council Tool website most of their tools are going to be available through distributors only and from what I have seen the Camp Carver seems to be made in smaller quantity runs. This means it can be a little harder to find in stock at all times. It is easy to pick a distributor/retailer and preorder to get on the waiting list though, most wait times seem to be fairly short. ( if you have ever bought custom extremely short compared) I wouldnt be put off by this I think it is an attempt to keep a better handle on quality control and better response if you have issues.
I purchased mine through a retailer on Amazon the seller was Imagine Gear who was a great seller, I believe Wiseman Trading and supply has them in stock regularly as well and I have had good dealings through them as well. I am not including links because more often than not they are sold out or individuals are price gouging high demand items.
Council Tool Website link:counciltool.com/shop/wood-craf...
Here are the specs as per Council Tools Website :
5160 steel
16" Premium hickory handle
26oz head weight
25-28 deg. flat grind bit bevels
4" bit length
15.75" nominal overall length
hardened poll
90 deg spine
Large hatchet eye
bearded blade
Welted leather mask
#counciltool #woodcraftcampcarver

[@johnmutton799]

It's the same with the knife industry, making axes cheap then selling at a high price. This is drop forged and then the head is shaped on a belt sander as is the area behind the edge. Good for knocking pegs in and cutting morning sticks. And they think that is carving! Far too big a log for a hatchet. Always taking it too far. Gather firewood off the floor or small dead trees. That axe will not last doing tha the handle will breakt

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Seems you are a regular on this video ha ha ha. Thanks for the input....again. You really should just contact Council tool instead of posting this stuff to my video. I even address the handle to head ratio being too small in the video. The main reason I split rounds that size... is because I often use a heated tent in the winter and have to split rounds to fit them in the wood stove, and for reasons I have answered in the video. Picking wet sticks off the ground dosn't cut the mustard around here for firewood when camping in mid January, also makes for a boring axe review.

[@johnmutton799]

@@Scablands_Scavenger i should have said gather wood of the floor and split to get to dryer material. I know you are testing it. And i know you use the right tool for the job. Counci. Tool say its for kindling and entry level carver. So why such a high price. £130 in UK. Way to much. Nothing wrong with your videos my freind. I enjoy watching. I don't agree with the marketing bull the firms put out and high prices. No disrespect to you my freind. I have bought quite a few things you've shown. Good info.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

@@johnmutton799 No problem at all, I appreciate the conversation and you make some fair points. The price is a sticker for quite a few people...and I am in no way defending C.T. as I have had hit and miss results with their products. I would like to say (as you ask why such a high price) from what I understand the "premium line" axes all use 5160 steel and are differentially heat treated on the head to include a hardened hammer poll. I can only speak for the quality of the ones I have seen in person (3) 2 of them are very nice looking with the 3rd having an average handle. Mostly straight premium grain/grade handles and well fit to the head. Another expense added to the premium line is a very secure and nice packaged box. I mention this because I ordered a very pricey limited edition axe of Swedish origin and it arrived in a cardboard box with 2 sheets of crumpled paper. The axe handle was damaged and the blade was nicked. I did a video covering this a while back. This adds cost for the materials but also you have to pay someone to package the items. Both my CT premium axes came with a nice leather sheath, not that others don't but some do not. To me I look at axes like the RMJ tactical stuff and shake my head or the seriously boutique one off customs. For instance I have always liked the Gransfors Bruk Bearded Axe but would never be able to justify the 6-900$ price so I had one hand forged by another smith for a fraction of the cost. It is hard to convey all of this in a video as most people will tune out, and many are not interested. The majority just want to have something to take camping and look nice hanging off their belt..... and that is ok too.

[@TheChzoronzon]

CT axes are universally liked, and if they are expensive in the UK, cause transport and taxes, that's not their problem You come across a bit too entitled and forceful in your OPINIONS, mate

[@1AbominAble1]

This is by far the best axe review that I’ve seen, very well done Sir. You covered pretty much anything that I could think of doing in camp with it. Thank you.

[@seff2318]

Extremely impressed by how thorough and honest your review was! You’re a rare bird in the axe community haha. I couldn’t agree more about your take on softwood.

[@tkettle13]

I love your videos man. You always somehow tend to present the products you are testing from a unique and different point of view than most other people would. It shows the overall usability of the product where everyone else tends to focus on one or two areas.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thank you, this is what I try to accomplish for better or worse LOL !

[@bluesideup007]

Good review. I referred to it before purchasing. I now have had one for >9 months and use it primarily for roughing out spoon blanks. Works very well. Flat grind excels for this. For general camp chores and trail clearing I prefer the pack axe with the longer handle.

[@DaiHachiHachi]

I have missed your reviews. Glad to see a new video!

[@john1972goh]

Good review! You're the one I love to see the most when come to axes!!!

[@dullbrass]

5 star review! Cool hatchet and it's a joy to watch you using it.

[@Rooster1964]

I’ve been on the fence about this one for a long time. I think it’s time to get it. Thank you for the review

[@NorthernWoodsmanElite]

One of the best axe videos out there

[@rossmac3084]

superb video...many thanks..great range of techniques on display for putting this hatchet to good use with multiple and versatile tasks...thanks again

[@bruderk4257]

I love your reviews. And i love how much you love axes. There is nothing that helps me more falling asleepas the sound of you chopping wood.

[@saginawdan]

I've watch a lot of axe reviews...you do a very nice job - thanks.🌲👍

[@aaronsoken2796]

Great demonstration. I'm going to purchase one. Thanks!

[@heldenkreuz]

Well done. Thank you for sharing your review of the CT Camp Carver hatchet.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thanks for watching, glad you liked it!

[@ra8640]

This was an Excellent video and for most of us it has the info we wanted to know. I like your no-nonsense attitude about this hatchet. You put it through it's paces on video which shows it's capabilities in real usage. I usually go camping in a group, but I also hike alone in the South Florida Everglades to hone my skills. I'd like to see a video on a saw like the one you used in this video as well. I'm purchasing an axe like this and it's made in the USA. Thanks again and Stay Safe out there!

[@Richard-mz7qu]

Ok, so now I am convinced its a good tool. I like the look and functionality of the beard. Mine is on it's way home. Thanks foe a great no nonsense review.

[@Apeman_Actual]

Good review! Thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@WhatDennisDoes]

You say carving isn't your thing but that's a damn nice spoon! You inspired me to start using my hatchets for more than just wood processing. Good review!

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thank you ! Spoon carving is one of those hobbies that require two things I just don't have enough of : patience and time ha ha. I think it is a very relaxing and rewarding way to spend time honing your skills though, and lately I find myself trying to make time to do it more.

[@CaptCanuck4444]

Thorough review, thanks!

[@nowakezoneforever6021]

Great video! You excellently demonstrated how to use this axe around the camp. Those are some skills I want to practice when my camp carver arrives in a few days. You made use of the spine better than anyone I’ve seen. Great job and thank you for the work you put in making this video. New subscriber!

[@tomhensarling5890]

awesome. Own the 16 camp carver and the 24 inch pack ax. Love them both. Council axes rule.

[@ghostkavi]

Great review! Ordering one now.

[@markoda2120]

Nice review. Very thorough. Thank you

[@AdventureswithSpackmann]

Really liked how you used the hatchet as a brace to saw against, never seen that before!

[@amo757]

Excellent review.

[@bluegrassdna5572]

I wish all reviews were like your review.

[@heldenkreuz]

Very well done and informative. Thank you!

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Glad you liked it, thanks for watching !

[@steveokon5431]

Well done video !! Thank you, great demos

[@cleveharry6282]

Thanks for the review. I'm was considering this hatchet....and I think I'll go for it after your thoughts.

[@wayneberry8703]

Great review, thanks for your honest opinion. Cheers from Down Under

[@brodon4886]

Fantastic review.

[@chuckhorn445]

Great video!

[@anthonykammas3276]

you post the best axe craft content--thanks

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thank you , glad you like the videos. I wish I had more time to make them!

[@temujin667]

Can't wait for Council Tool to come out with the 19 inch handle version.

[@zhaneranger]

Jeff Ramey are they really coming out with a 19inch handle for this axe head? It has crossed my mind to rehandle it. But the axe is a lot of $$ to beginning with if it needs work. There is a 19inch pack axe, but the head is slightly dofferent

[@hyberboreanventures8383]

@@zhaneranger The 19" pack axe's head is the same weight, and the poll is hardened to hammer with, it just has a little less of a "beard"

[@temujin667]

@@zhaneranger That's what I heard when the Camp Carver first came out. Haven't heard anything else about is since then.

[@boutthere3374]

Has to be one of the most underrated axe's out there. The weight/balance is just perfect in this axe with the 16 inch handle. The hardened pol is also really useful.

[@paddywonka]

Great review! Just bought one from Whiskey River. Thanks

[@anthonykammas3276]

really excellent content

[@brianmccann666]

Sweet axe. Missed your reviews.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thanks Brian, I missed doing them !

[@terryhatton3622]

Thanks for the review on the camp axe you did what I would do work it to its limits then put your own touch on it. I will give you a thumbs up

[@davidjohnson7708]

I like it. Impressive .

[@dennysexton4219]

I was contemplating purchasing this axe to compliment my 23" Council Tool pack axe. I own a number of similar sized axes including Gransfors Bruk and Hults Bruk variants so this is not a necessity for me, however, this video pointed out some interesting features that are desirable for this type of axe and I think I will pull the trigger on one. Thanks for an adequate testing (in my opinion) of this axe displaying its positive attributes as well as some issues and how to improve them.

[@KowboyUSA]

Good looking hatchet.

[@gingebrien2408]

Great review. I dare say the Council tool pack axe is a great splitter in my humble opinion and also with a hardened pole😁

[@jongjoorhee931]

Neat trick with the axe in the crack when you saw a log. Take a great amount of strain off your left hand. No, not that crack. I mean the crack in the wood. Looks like a good little hatchet. Gratitude for the good info.

[@Erik1970Viking]

very good video again, and an interesting hatchet. In all the Tomahawk hype, i sometimes think that people forget about the benefits of a hatchet ..

[@davidjohnson7708]

Starting to like what your doing .

[@darrenmiller5893]

I love my Council Tool 16" hatchet. Much more durable than the Gransfors Bruk it replaced. I appreciate the focus in your videos of show vs yakyakyak.

[@paddywonka]

Great review! After watching just bought one from Whiskey River.

[@davidjohnson7708]

That, I understand .

[@bubba7626]

Well damn! should have got the one with the straight 22" handle... thats what I get for impulse buying. Been wanting a heavier head hatchet for carving.. At least I'm saving a bit of weight for back packing use. Can't wait to get mine in. I guess will turn it into a scandi - vex with a mill file andn puck as I go through that resin pine stuff, I know what your talking about. Great video and thanks!

[@starlingblack814]

Looks like a sweet little hatchet; I still prefer a tomahawk, not because it is better (it's not), but because it is easier to fix a broken handle if need be. Thanks for a good review.

[@williambadenoch1439]

Great review! I have one, 16" handle...love it. Suggestion...when using it as a hammer, take the mask off. Duct tape is an ugly repair to a nice leather mask....trust me on this.

[@contrabassbob]

A thought about the tent stakes... I used to run beach and grass volleyball tournaments. We usually used softball stakes (maybe 10" long?) and they had a lousy record of holding the (admittedly, under slightly higher tension) nets in anything but perfect weather. Those twisty dog leash spikes or something might do the trick though they'd pack a little heavier...

[@tomhensarling5890]

I have that ax and it is awsome.

[@christopherpaustian6117]

Great video! Real showcase for your skills and the capabilities of the tool. I'm really curious about the half tipi you set up. Looks awesome! Could you share where you got it and maybe do a review?

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thank you for the compliment! The shelter is the Little bugout made by Seek Outside they are a company from Colorado. I would like to do a review If I can make the time !

[@markberggren4934]

Excellent review. Thank you for posting this. The fatwood you have in your area is amazing, too. What state are you in?

[@brettgodown1091]

Loved your review. If your interested i can show you an easier way to split rounds with a belt axe and hatchet. But still an awsome review.

[@Prodigalson0078]

Pardon me for disagreeing with you, however, I think you did a fantastic job carving that spoon!

[@azdesertdog]

Nice review. I like that hatchet. I'd like to find something compact and light weight for the bike. I looked at some tactical hatchets but I don't think they will work.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thanks for checking it out ! Its a decent hatchet for packing on a bike, my problem is I have so damn many its like choosing a pair of shoes every time I go out !

[@danwalters5198]

Man that review would make any Bush-crafter. want to get up and boil some water

[@KNIGHTRACEDOTCOM]

I love my GFB's bought this today, I have the flying fox and in my test the flying fox is much harder than this hatchet.. It has a different use than my GFB's and I like to support American products, good review.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

They are good little camp tools for sure. I just added a flying fox to my collection very similar in size and weight to the camp carver but more budget oriented. Fit and finish on both of mine are very good. It will be interesting to see how the steels compare as far as edge retention and maintenance goes.

[@KNIGHTRACEDOTCOM]

@@Scablands_Scavenger I was pleased with them both. I work with a lot of metals in my business. Something to try for a reference is hold one in your hands and take a spoon and tap the side of the blade, the higher the ring the harder it is, you can also see how far back the heat treating goes. I believe the Fox is much harder. that is more likely to chip but will hold an edge longer typically. I like my GFB's but this has a few things I like and I like to buy American when I can as long as the quality is there.

[@jjm6187]

Very helpful video. Struggling to select the right one. Of their 4 wood craft axes, which would you take?

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Hmm that's a tough choice. Depends on what the primary intended use would be really. To be honest the woodcrafts are not my favorite picks. The carver is heavy for its size and has only a hatchet sized eye which limits how long a handle you should use on it, it feels kind of short and a little un balanced to me. The woodcraft pack axe is pretty good, feels balanced but I don't really care for the head design (I have 24" models). They are both well made and get the job done... just not my favorites. I have had issues with the grinds on all 3 woodcrafts, not a big deal but I had to re profile them all to keep from rolling the edge. I actually picked up the "new 2021 version" 2lb Hudson Bay "Sport Utility line" in 18" and like it a lot for splitting smaller rounds to feed tent stove, it is very comparable to the Fiskars X11 in capability/dimensions. Small packable splitting axe of sorts that blasts small rounds. I also picked up the 1.25lb 14" Hudson bay camp axe (hatchet) when they were 35$. It is probably the Council Axe I use the most, just a simple light camp hatchet that fits real nice in a pack. They were ok in fit and finish and both needed a little work on the edge, but cost less than 1 woodcraft.

[@jjm6187]

@@Scablands_Scavenger I've been looking for something overall which could be brought camping, do small log splitting or sizing down pre-split wood. Since it's for cmap I thought a hardened poll could be useful, but then again perhaps a better axe head and hammer separately would suffice better. I've eyed grans fors and council velvicut lines too. overal just struggling with what head size and length would be good all purpose camp and pack axe, but would be moreso camp axe.

[@KingKoopa919]

This was a fantastic video. Do you know own the 19" version? I am looking for a more rubust bushcraft/backpacking axe and trying to decide as I recently broke the handle on my old Hults Bruk

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

I dont think they ever released the 19" handled version. It is a shame really. I have thought of putting a longer handle on mine myself but the smaller eye worries me a little, a hatchet eye on a 19-24" handle with a 1.7# head may not last long. Like I stated in the video I would much prefer this head on a longer handle. For me it is just an awkward size. I find it right in between for me, I have better lighter short axes for carving and hatchet work. And the added comfort, leverage and safety I get with my longer (22-26") pack axes make this not worth carrying when it comes to camp chores. I would use this much more with a longer handle.

[@eddiekytia]

I just came across your channel and I did subscribe. I found your channel because I'm looking to buy the council tool camp carver or the gransfors wildlife hatchet or small forest axe. So when you say you knocked the edge back and found it held up better for you, what do you mean by knocking it back? THANKS FOR YOUR HELP. By the way if you have experience with any of the axes I mentioned which do you like most. I need something packable for small wood processing and light chopping around camp for small fires,not looking to chop 8 inch logs

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Knocking the edge back basically means putting a small secondary bevel on the edge, making it less thin. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpPZkHqrodCrmMk (different axe but same concept) Thin profiles work well for chopping straight grain and clean wood but will roll when chopping knotted or pitchwood. I do not own the Wildlife or Small forest axe, but I do have the Gransfors carpenter hatchet. It is a great axe, but has a very thin edge. I only use it for wood craft projects, it will deform on nasty knotted firewood type stuff. I am more partial to the old Wetterlings Axes for camping use, they have a thicker head. I find them better at splitting wood for fires. I have the #118 outdoor and the old Les Stroud/Survivorman "Bushman" model. They are fantastic axes but not for sale any more I believe. As for the Council Camp carver, it is a nice little axe, I do not use it much though. Something about the balance is just off for my taste, heavy-ish head on short handle. The eye is also small for the weight, it is essentially a hatchet sized hole making the head prone to loosening under heavy use. It does hold an edge well and is ok for carving big stuff, choking up on the handle one handed type. Honestly I use my cheap Council Tool 1.25lb Hudson bay camp axe more. Got it for 35$ from Wiseman Trading. Needed a little clean up on the grind but a solid budget tool that I do not feel bad about beating up a bit. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iILIl4mdbZ2Bi5Y ... hope this helps

[@davidjohnson7708]

Still watching .

[@ProdigiousReturn]

How do you like this smaller carver version compared to the 19 and 24 inch woodcraft pack one?

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

I only own the 24" pack axe for comparison but I prefer this head design over the pack axe. If the eye was larger I would put the pack axe handle on this head. Nothing against the pack axe really I just prefer this design.

[@ronkay1573]

Wonder how it compares to a Gransfor Bruks hatchet or a Tuatahi trapper/hatchet? That axe/hatchet you reviewed looks very similiar to my Tuatahi trapper 19” hatchet/axe. I use it single/one-handed so it’s in my hatchet category. I rank my Tuatahi better than my GB’s.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

The only GB I can compare to is the carpenters hatchet, and they are quite different for different uses I think, the GB being much thinner blade suited for fine work and carving clean wood (thin blade profile). The CT carver I would consider more of an all around camp tool that can also do some carpenter/carving tasks but less finesse. I have no experience with Tuatahi axes so cannot comment.

[@rnilazarev2553]

🤝👍👍👍

[@bofawilson9734]

👍

[@W-4RR4NT]

What foldable hand saw are you using?

[@buddycarroll9641]

Well, it works good on a soft wood like the Pine you're using. Try it on hardwood.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thanks for taking the time to comment. To be honest there is not much hardwood around where I live other than brush wood like oceanspray and hawthorn. The 5160 steel holds a decent edge and once the profile is adjusted for your work style I think it would do just fine, as I address at the 15:25 minute mark.

[@johnmutton799]

With a small axe like that if it gets stuck ìn the log use a baton. Hatchets this size were not made to split logs that big, use smaller sticks for fire wood, gathered. Use a saw then to cut your logs and simply put them straight on the fire. Right tool for the job!

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Thank you for your tips. Keep in mind that this is a review for the hatchet, not a saw or a baton. From feedback I have received most people are interested in how the axe performs on its own. Like I stated in the video the number one question I received for this hatchet was "HOW DOES IT SPLIT" so I tried to split as large of rounds as was reasonable for the area I was in. Also keep in mind that my reviews are typically done out of a back pack in the woods rather than in a back yard with a woodshed set up IE: splitting block and the like. This is also why I show the variety of other tasks being performed and not just bulk wood processing.

[@Homeyomey]

I seen that the 22inch straight handle is available now

[@boutthere3374]

I've not held the 22inch but the weight and balance of the 16inch is so perfect I think the 22 is not needed and may work against it. The 16 punches way above its weight and is in such a small package.YMMV

[@Homeyomey]

@@boutthere3374 thanks

[@williammcguire1823]

Can you make a kydex mask for the camp carver?

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

From the testing I have done the size difference is too great between these axes, chances are if I made one on mine it would not fit someone else's. Its a bummer because I get quite a few requests for some of the nicer axe's but because they are somewhat unique they just aren't close enough in size for the locking style sheath.

[@robertlarkham2428]

Bought this hatchet/axe and it was not the fit and finish of the hatchet in the above video. I grabbed screen shots to compare to mine. Ended up sending mine back only to have the second hatchet have the same poor fit to handle. Ended up keeping it but not sure I’d purchase from Council Tool again.

[@bladesandbows1521]

Never heard of an issue q.c. wise let alone 2. Weird

[@jerryrocketandthegogogirls3517]

I was convinced I was gonna get a council tool hatchet or axe a while back but I’ve heard a lot of bad things lately about them coming in with terrible quality control. Forums tell me to go with the trusted gransford bruk which was my second option. I’m still trying to figure out what I want to do cause I just want an axe I can count on

[@bladesandbows1521]

@@jerryrocketandthegogogirls3517 I have 5 council tool axes and I still haven't had any issues with them. Even their sport utility line is doing well for me. I just ordered another boys axe. Especially for the price, $40, you can't go wrong

[@jerryrocketandthegogogirls3517]

Blades and Bows that’s good to hear. It’s between council and gransfors I’m just waiting until I have some extra money

[@bombsawaylemay770]

How's the axe holding up?

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

The axe is fine, honestly I do not use it much... a problem with having a very large collection ha ha. Still looks great, no issue with blade or handle. It is kind of in an odd size for me though, I prefer a lighter axe when hiking or bike camping and again a larger axe when vehicle camping.

[@johnmutton799]

Nice looking hatchet, do you think it's worth the money?

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

I cannot answer that for you. It all depends on your intended use, expectations and view of money right? I have a collection of axes so am kind of biased towards answering this. If you think it a little high priced there are alternatives that are lower priced that can do the same work, the Council Tool Flying Fox comes to mind for less ($50) that uses the same handle, multiple other axes/brands in the 50-100$ range. Then if you want real high value for dollar you have the Fiskars stuff, although availability and price are fluctuating quite a bit lately on them.

[@johnmutton799]

@@Scablands_Scavenger i have quite a few as well. Like i said nice looking hatchet. If you want your axe to look the buisness while cutting tinder and morning sticks, and at the same time do a bit of carving, it looks and cuts ok. The one i saw in UK when they first came out was not so good looking. Behind the grind it really hollowed out, bad,y infact. But looking at yours it looks ok. I do carving, but the axe i have is heavier. That looks like a tidy axe to throw in your backpack. Keep up the vids. Better than most!

[@hillbilly4christ638]

I support council tool. they have the guts to continue to produce in this hostile marketplace. the same goes for estwing. I detest axe snobs. if you want high end, then go for it. many of us will own many quality bushcraft tools for what you have in one of those high end tools. anymore, here in the USA if someone makes anything they want to become instantly wealthy. I know, they rationalize their price. rationalizations are just lies that people tell to themselves and the in turn to others. I have seen these high end makers squander money that they will want to have back someday. not good business sense. just saying. good video!

[@tested123]

Why would asking if it's a good splitter be an odd question? In my mind thats a camp axe number one role

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

I guess at the time I felt it an odd question given the size, weight, name of this hatchet and other better available axe choices for splitting. I guess I thought it was odd more people asked how it split wood rather than how well does it carve, or how good is it at chopping, how balanced is it etc.

[@tested123]

@@Scablands_Scavenger you made a good video tho. i just discovered today that the hatchet ive been abusing for years is a hults bruk! im 50 and my dad let me start using it when i was little. i cant believe i own a swedish made axe.

[@danwalters5198]

Got a little tired there?

[@kevinconville9258]

Mine incurred damage within 2 minutes of use. Chopping a Douglas Fir 2x4 and a 1x4 slat of Teak, the edge chipped and rolled. Council will not respond to me and neither will Wiseman Trading (distributor). I should have bought the Gransfors Bruk I was considering, but foolish me I thought I'd help keep a job in the US.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Unfortunately you are not the first person I have heard this from. And I also experienced this issue on my woodcraft pack axe but was sent a replacement when I sent pictures of the axe edge rolled and the over ground edge directly to the company. It is unfortunate that you are not being taken care of by the distributor which used to be CTs warranty policy iirc that I cannot find on their website anymore... I have purchased several axes through Wiseman and considered them to be of good standing, disappointing. I will say, on mine I straightened the rolled portion out and pulled the edge back a little and have had zero issues since. The flat grind, like I think I state in the video flat will not hold up on any of the 3 axes I purchased from Council Tool for outdoor use. The 5160 steel is very resilient though and with a semi convex edge works very well. I would be interested to know how this is resolved.

[@kevinconville9258]

@@Scablands_Scavenger I was able to talk with someone from Wiseman Trading today, who fulfilled the order, and I'm returning it to them for a refund. Council Tool also called me today and we talked about the axe. He admitted he'd seen this before but said it was rare. The most likely scenario is that the edge was overheated during grinding, IMO and Council's. It could probably be ground some more until the harder steel is exposed but I don't know how much that might take and I also didn't buy a new axe to put to the grindstone, so to speak. I went with the refund option instead of exchange even though I really like the design as I've had three axes just this year that I've had problems with and I'm a little tired of returns. I ordered a Granfors Bruk Small Forest Axe for their impeccable reputation and I've wanted one for some time anyway. I've put a Scandi type edge on several Swedish axes before and finished with passes on a cotton wheel with green compound (same as I did with the Council) to create a micro bevel and they hold up and work great, and get shaving sharp to boot.

[@kevinconville9258]

Both Wiseman and Council contacted me today and the issue is being resolved

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

@@kevinconville9258 I am glad to hear they are standing behind the product. I think you made a good call asking for a refund. That sounds like the same thing I was told, "seen it before but rare" unfortunately one look in the comments on any review video of this and the pack axe will show otherwise. It seems to be a trend these days that companies only listen to their "influencers" for feedback instead of the average person who sees an issue just building a campfire....I mean very few people will intentionally cook a golden goose for supper.

[@ronkay1573]

Get a Tuatahi trapper 19” made in New Zealand. I own several Swedish hatchets and axes too. I don’t mind paying for quality if it’s quality.

[@davidjohnson7708]

WTF are you doing , you've got me confused . Still watching .

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

I often ask myself the same.

[@bladesandbows1521]

Always wear gloves?

[@horseblinderson4747]

You lose me three seconds in.

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

well ok then.

[@richardrocha702]

I respect your knowledge and opinion so I'm glad to hear the outcome of this review, considering I purchased this tool a bit ago and have had very limited time with it in use. 🙂