I have a smaller estwing stacked leather handle hatchet and I love it. My dad bought it for me in 1985( i was 15).It gets the job done all the time. I even forgot about it for about 5 years and it cleaned up real nice with a wire wheel on a drill and the edge came back real fast with a couple passes with a handheld belt sander.
I have had my Estwing 26 inch axe about 20 years, used from literally Alaska to Florida. Like he said no so hot for heavy spliting but a great nearly indestructable tool... I like mine and now stays in the truck...
I love this axe so much on camping trips. I have two. One for my BOB bag and other for wilderness hiking and camping. Also if you don't like the feel of the handle wrap some nice paracord around it. Works for me.
Always good to see affordable gear. I see a lot of people reviewing great knives and other things, but never really want to fork out the dough (especially since I'm good at losing knives). Cool channel.
Thanks Brian, another great review. Estwing makes several great tools here in the US. Have you ever used one of their stacked leather handled hammers? Man, that leather really absorbs vibration and makes the hammer a pleasure to use.
Nice video. I have the S S model and its rubber handle is smooth all the way and has the original leather snap sheath. The first time I tried to use it I didn't like it much because it was light weight and too short. Some years later, after I got old and out of condition I like it a lot. I got it at an estate sale along with a load of other tools (round end and square end shovels, hoes, garden rakes, hay forks etc) that covered the bottom of my long, wide bed pick up. I got the entire bunch for $60.00. Most of those tools have fiberglass handles and most of them have managed to find their way back home after being borrowed.
'mornin, Bryan; Don't own a Estwing Axe,But Their Hammers R Top-Notch.As 4 my Axe,I'll Carry/Pack My Dad's 'ole Double 'Bitter,Every Time.Bought just after his return from WW II.Has had a handle replaced 1or2 times,Never let me down Yet ! Thanks 4 continuing this series. Stay Safe & Warm Over Yonder ! Happy Trails From The Maritimes In Canada " GOD BLESS "
I bought mine way back in 1978. It looks bad but works just like it did when new. Its a bit heavy for bush craft applications, but as yo said it is tough as hell.
One of my preferred camp axes. I did one time roll the edge just a bit going through very hard Texas White Oak. Thanks Brian for all of your videos. - Marco
It’s a limber not a splitter but makes a a great all around camp tool. I keep one in my pickup tool box for anytime use. Also a a mill bastard file to dress it up and general use as well. One in hand is well worth the price.
For the money, I think Estwing did a very good job on their axes, I have the three sizes in their axe, the 14", 17", and the 26" axe, tough as nail's, I sharpen them on my Work Sharp, and use them alot, especially just to have a hot cup of coffee on a open fire, no complaints, and it doesnt get any better, with anyone of my knives, and a Wicked Tree Gear folding saw, and I can handle that situation, and enjoy myself quite well, Enjoy Your Holiday's, , and have a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year, good job, Thanx for sharing one of my axes, Thanx
I sort of refurbished this one. If you call sanding off rust and resharpening a refurbish. It was pretty satisfying to see the steel shine again. There's just something about any kind of a blade, isn't there?
Hiya Mr. Bryan, yup the Estwing Axes are some of my fav's I have them in the three sizes, but the 17" is my fav out of the bunch, I like it's 4" face and if I want I can two hand it as well as with one hand, it's not as compact as my 14" Estwing but it's more versital as far as I'm concerned for what I use it for, they say it's too thin to split with, but I find my Estwing's do a nice job splitting and yet tgeir bomb proof too and tge price is right, Thanx again Mr. Bryan we have some good stuff, and I enjoy your video's good jib.
I have several axes but keep my 18" estwing camp axe in the truck for that 'just in case' scenario (big branch on the road, nice log or tree cut down by hydro lines). Virtually unbreakable, the coating on it prevents rust, great for cutting but so-so for splitting.
Yeah Estwing is generally known for their geologic equipment. Love my rock hammer. Crack hammer and paleo pick from them. Working with rocks... that shock absorber handle is worth it's weight in gold
That thing is huge! I have the Estwing Sportsmans which is half the size. They make a great axe, but mine gors blunt pretty quick. Tough steel, not sharp/hard steel I guess. Thanks for the video!
My really old 26inch wood axe finley snapped so I looked at my favorite hammers brand and found more awesome and indestructible tools got this axe and I'm happy with every dollar spent
I watched a video earlier where a $135 Gransfors Bruk hickory handle broke the first time the guy used it. It was an overstrike cutting fatwood, so it was his fault, but I would have been heartbroken (or something else!). I personally am not as picky about an axe as I am a knife regarding style, steel etc.
Thanks. Yeah, the poor dog spends all day chained to a tree so he is probably pretty neurotic. He seems to know exactly when I hit the Record button on my camera.
I finally bought an Estwing axe. My Boys broke 2 handles by mistake learning...also Mr Porcupine like the salt on the last handle. I just use wedges any how for big spitting. I use a round stone for sharpening. It a small working axe...not a loggers axe...perfect for arround the camp for me.
Ahh the video that introduced me to my favorite TH-cam Channel I actually bought one of these suckers today and stashed it under the back seat of my pickup. the thought of being on Shenandoah Mountain and having to chop through a 14 inch tree over the trail with a 14 inch camp axe like that kid did the other day... Yeah. That's what did it. Kid saved our trip and was the only one ready. I was in somebody elses truck so I counted on them and the other 25 jeeps... mistake # 1. Be Prepared.
Seems to work pretty good I'd say. But in reality it's be as prepared as ya possibly can. I mean you can't always have a cooler full of steaks with you any more than you can have an axe of this size. but if my truck is pulling the weight. Who cares? I mean a hickory handle feels better but if excuse me when I overstrike, break my axe and my excursion ends up with us having to back off the mountain.... I reckon I could fashion a handle for an axe but dude, do I want to? do my friends wanna wait for me to? NO! I mean these are survival items but in all reality I have dedicated the last 14 years to making sure y'all will never need them for that.
Jake Riethmeier Ha. Funny you should ask. My birthday is Feb 20. I'll be, gulp, 55. It's funny, I remember when I first started plumbing 30 years ago, my mentor was 55 and I thought he was an old man. It doesn't seem so old to me now ;-)
That's a whole lotta Axe to carry if you're hiking to your campsite! At least it would be for me....... Otherwise, looks great! Thanks for the video, Brian. Love the work you do.
i have one,cost 55.00 delivered to my door,not a bad little axe, but seemed light to me.not so good for splitting but most other tasks it handled well. i have had it probably 10 yrs,...a good buy in my opinion
The Esting No1 hatchet is all I've ever needed. I love that thing, but this on has an H cross section (Like an I beam, only wider) all the way down from the ricasso to the end of the tang. Damned near unbreakable, the shank will snap before that handle will.
Since you're doing this, survival on a shoestring. Check out the "Mossberg" Bird, and trout set. I have a 2 knife philosophy: A nice sharp little knife for surgery, and a beater to keep the nice sharp knife nice, and sharp. The sheathe is cheap, replace it. Other than that, this 2 knife set works for me. (With a heavy hatchet, or machete for real woodworking.) I love the ring pommel, because you can hang it from your pinkie while you use your fingers. Filleting a trout, skinning bats (Boil the fat, and protein out of them) or whatever. Sometimes you want to use your fingers, and not put down your knife.
Say Heah Brian, Yeah, Even though I have some Swedish Axes and Hatchets, I also have a couple of German Axes. But I really like my Estwings, I have the 14" leather handle then the 17" shock absorbing handle and the 26" handle, I also have the Double Bit Hatchet that's giving my leather handle Hatchet a break. Recently I bought a 26" Husqvarna All Purpose Forest Axe, But I had to send it back because the eye was defective and safety is very important especially when it comes to axes. I exchanged it for a German Ochsenkopf Axe, made by Iltis Oxhead, It's a 1200g (2.7.lbs) with a 700mm (27.5+") heft. I got the Rotband Plus which is a steel sleeve and metal eve cover that unites the head and handle. But yeah, my Estwings are defenetly Aces.
great axe, but bring up your maul. got lots of firewood to split. it was down to -36 the other morning. those estwing axes last a life time. nice video, keep them coming
36 below huh? I used to work with a guy from Montana. One day we were talking about the weather and he mentioned it was 12 above. I told him I wasn't sure if I would want to live somewhere you had to specify above or below when talking about the weather. It's 20 here this morning, and I thought that was cold. Stay warm.
in england if estwing breaks on you you can take it to a iron monger and they will give you a new one just like snap on do i rekon for the money there worth every penny or cent
you could patina the steel with mustard then oil it if you still have it , thats what I've done to my hatchet (unknown brand) it works fairly nice to keep rust away
Survival On Purpose no problem , I live in Georgia , the humidity causes unprotected carbon steel knives and tools to Rust rather quick , so I've done that so I don't have to constantly use a wire brush to keep rust to a minimum and as far as the mustard patina , you just put on a pattern you like , let it sit half an hour , clean it off , put a second layer , let it sit another half hour , then do the other sides , the poll of the Axe can do fine with one coat , its time consuming , but prevents your knives and tools from getting rusted up very quickly
I have the middle sized one without the tube-type extension. the shorter length is more packable for canoeing or camping but obviously less power for big stuff. have you tried this model?
Say Heah Brian, I have the three sizes of Estwing's and the Double Bit Hatchet. I also like teaming either my Estwing Spotrsman or my Camoer's Hatchet with my Blackbird SK-5 or similar knives. I think Estwing makes a good axe.,,.
I own one of these its great, I was concerned about the handle breaking from a missed strike, but it has held up well. Back when I used to build houses I had seen two metal handled estwing hammers break, both were 19oz hammers and both broke while trying to force a piece of lumber into a place that was not big enough for it. Both broke about halfway down the handle..
Brian, I use my Estwing's to split too, infact that 26" you have, I can make kindling all day with mine, Yup I Axe Tap riggt through the logs and no problemo.
the handle is welded into a tube but over all its an ok axe and good general purpose tool ive used to baton stuff that is way too large by hitting the metal handle ts a great little axe
i feather stick just fine with campers axe....same steel...i think they are a 1080 tool carbon steel...i just wish the axe was a little longer and heavier....but a great tool
I have one and honestly it is not that great for actual work. edge retention is garbage from factory as it is too soft so I had to re-harden and temper it. Be prepared to do double if not triple the work than other axes. Being rugged does not outweigh the workload
That axe actually isn't one solid piece of steel. Per what I was told by Estwing, it's actually a 2 piece construction. The head/neck is is is a single forged piece that's inserted & welded into a steel "tube" handle. However, I've ever only saw one break & that was from severe misuse & I'd, by no means, discredit it. For their price, they're a decent, well made axe.
According to Estwing, that is not a solid, one piece of tool steel construction. The lower handle (blue) is a different kind of steel in a tube shape that is heat bonded in some fashion (welded / brazed maybe?) to the tool steel head. Only the smaller axes/hatchets are one piece through the tang/handle. Now, with that in mind, I own one of these axes and have tortured it with no complaints. Although I will say that you need to cold sharpen these axes. They do lose their heat treating if you use power sharpening on uncooled stones/wheels. I did mine quickly with a belt sander once and I rolled that edge with the first few chops...
Understandable. Come to think of it, I did notice the lack of your usual, state of the art, testing facility. Forgiven! Go forth and continue testing, young man. I'm 61. I can call you that.
hey brother send me the thickness, length, and height measurements of that axe head. and ill make u a nice leather sheath for it ! free of charge! something i like to do when bored lol. maybe trace the head profile on a sheet of paper and send it to me !
It's too heavy for what it can do. The shock to the elbow is terrible. They have to be sharpened much more often then some other axes like the Council Tool Boy's ax. Sometimes things made in the past are better than things made today. I prefer the traditional ax.
I hear you. That's why I like that there are so many choices in the marketplace now. I personally prefer my Wetterling's, but for those who don't care about traditional design and don't want to spend $100 and up for an axe, the Estwing is a very capable general use axe that will last for years with reasonable care. And if you often camp with inexperienced people, it is definitely the better choice for them to borrow ;-)
I have the 19" Wetterlings which I love and I found it for about $80.00 online about a year and a half ago. But for a mid range 27" ax I am going to purchase the Council tool Boy's ax. I have seen many good reviews, and things said about it by Woods Trekker and others. I also heard the customer service is great and is 1/4 to 1/3 the price of the Wetterlings 26". I also like the fact that the steel is not quite as hard as the Wetterling or Gransfords Brooks, since I will be using it in subzero weather which can sometimes cause the Swedish axes to break. Woods Trekker made this point and I agree.
Yeah, I have an old official Boy Scout Axe that I re-hafted but I didn't take enough time and it didn't turn out too well. Maybe one day I'll re-do it and make a video. I may thing about getting a Council Tools Boy's Axe and review it. We'll see. Thanks. - Bryan
The point was to show the capabilities and limitations of the tool to help people make informed decisions. You are absolutely right, this axe is not designed for splitting but everyone may not know that. And some folks might be wondering how well this axe would work as an all around camp axe, which is it's official name after all. In my experience, most people do some splitting with their axe while camping and most don't being a dedicated splitter. Just as a lot of folks want to know if a knife is capable of being used to split wood in a pinch. Merry Christmas.
cyanide meat works charms on annoying barking dogs, or you can just go out in the night and silently dispatch them. Or, you can be like me and wait until they violate noise ordinance laws and call the cops. Yeah, I'm a law abider, but I really dislike the sound of barking dogs. Just watching this vid with the barking is giving me a panic attack.
I have a smaller estwing stacked leather handle hatchet and I love it. My dad bought it for me in 1985( i was 15).It gets the job done all the time. I even forgot about it for about 5 years and it cleaned up real nice with a wire wheel on a drill and the edge came back real fast with a couple passes with a handheld belt sander.
carried one for the last 15 years. no complaints this a great axe for backpacking.
Its a work horse of a tool. Had one close to 45 years. Definitely would recomend.
I have had my Estwing 26 inch axe about 20 years, used from literally Alaska to Florida. Like he said no so hot for heavy spliting but a great nearly indestructable tool... I like mine and now stays in the truck...
I love this axe so much on camping trips. I have two. One for my BOB bag and other for wilderness hiking and camping. Also if you don't like the feel of the handle wrap some nice paracord around it. Works for me.
I think it is a great axe. Heck, I like pretty much any axe, some just more than others.
Always good to see affordable gear. I see a lot of people reviewing great knives and other things, but never really want to fork out the dough (especially since I'm good at losing knives). Cool channel.
I appreciate it
Thanks Brian, another great review. Estwing makes several great tools here in the US. Have you ever used one of their stacked leather handled hammers? Man, that leather really absorbs vibration and makes the hammer a pleasure to use.
+Eurotrash4367 I have not. I've used their blue rubber handled hammers for years.
Eurotrash4367 I have used a pair (16oz & 20oz) for the last 25 yrs-)
Just can't overstate the comforf & quality.
Nice video. I have the S S model and its rubber handle is smooth all the way and has the original leather snap sheath.
The first time I tried to use it I didn't like it much because it was light weight and too short. Some years later, after I got old and out of condition I like it a lot. I got it at an estate sale along with a load of other tools (round end and square end shovels, hoes, garden rakes, hay forks etc) that covered the bottom of my long, wide bed pick up. I got the entire bunch for $60.00.
Most of those tools have fiberglass handles and most of them have managed to find their way back home after being borrowed.
Funny you should mention"...unless you lose it". I had the hatchet and loved it. And then I lost it during one of several moves.
I bought one of the Estwing camp hatchets a couple years ago and I have no complaints. Plus it's American made!
Yep, I have one of those on my wish list too. They are about $35 at my local Home Depot.
I have one of these for years and love it..... it will take abuse and never let you down....
+Michael Moore But the shaft will bend. Ask me how I know ;-)
'mornin, Bryan; Don't own a Estwing Axe,But Their Hammers R Top-Notch.As 4 my Axe,I'll Carry/Pack My Dad's 'ole Double 'Bitter,Every Time.Bought just after his return from WW II.Has had a handle replaced 1or2 times,Never let me down Yet !
Thanks 4 continuing this series. Stay Safe & Warm Over Yonder !
Happy Trails From The Maritimes In Canada
" GOD BLESS "
I bought mine way back in 1978. It looks bad but works just like it did when new. Its a bit heavy for bush craft applications, but as yo said it is tough as hell.
One of my preferred camp axes. I did one time roll the edge just a bit going through very hard Texas White Oak. Thanks Brian for all of your videos. - Marco
+2010chingonoutdoorsman yeah I think the steel is a little soft
It’s a limber not a splitter but makes a a great all around camp tool. I keep one in my pickup tool box for anytime use. Also a a mill bastard file to dress it up and general use as well.
One in hand is well worth the price.
It makes a good all around axe
Great axe big strong quality thanks for sharing
Thanks.
For the money, I think Estwing did a very good job on their axes, I have the three sizes in their axe, the 14", 17", and the 26" axe, tough as nail's, I sharpen them on my Work Sharp, and use them alot, especially just to have a hot cup of coffee on a open fire, no complaints, and it doesnt get any better, with anyone of my knives, and a Wicked Tree Gear folding saw, and I can handle that situation, and enjoy myself quite well, Enjoy Your Holiday's, , and have a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year, good job, Thanx for sharing one of my axes, Thanx
paulie 4x Thanks for watching Paulie. Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Love Estwings,,did a refurb of a really old one a while back
I sort of refurbished this one. If you call sanding off rust and resharpening a refurbish. It was pretty satisfying to see the steel shine again. There's just something about any kind of a blade, isn't there?
No doubt! Mine is just a hatchet...really just took off the leather handle, sanded it down, sharpened it and put some paracord on it.
That sounds like a great idea.
Hiya Mr. Bryan, yup the Estwing Axes are some of my fav's I have them in the three sizes, but the 17" is my fav out of the bunch, I like it's 4" face and if I want I can two hand it as well as with one hand, it's not as compact as my 14" Estwing but it's more versital as far as I'm concerned for what I use it for, they say it's too thin to split with, but I find my Estwing's do a nice job splitting and yet tgeir bomb proof too and tge price is right, Thanx again Mr. Bryan we have some good stuff, and I enjoy your video's good jib.
paulie 4x Thanks Paulie. I think they are bomb proof too. I've never seen one broken.
Good demo and explanation. I really appreciate your videos, thank you for doing them
Aw shucks. You are too kind.
I have several axes but keep my 18" estwing camp axe in the truck for that 'just in case' scenario (big branch on the road, nice log or tree cut down by hydro lines). Virtually unbreakable, the coating on it prevents rust, great for cutting but so-so for splitting.
Yep
@2:16,
Estwing, the only axe that can split wood with its haft.
So true.
Yeah Estwing is generally known for their geologic equipment. Love my rock hammer. Crack hammer and paleo pick from them. Working with rocks... that shock absorber handle is worth it's weight in gold
Fell into your area and enjoyed your video! Thanks!
That thing is huge! I have the Estwing Sportsmans which is half the size. They make a great axe, but mine gors blunt pretty quick. Tough steel, not sharp/hard steel I guess. Thanks for the video!
CedricAda Gear and Outdoors It is easy to sharpen though.
My really old 26inch wood axe finley snapped so I looked at my favorite hammers brand and found more awesome and indestructible tools got this axe and I'm happy with every dollar spent
Indeed.
I watched a video earlier where a $135 Gransfors Bruk hickory handle broke the first time the guy used it. It was an overstrike cutting fatwood, so it was his fault, but I would have been heartbroken (or something else!). I personally am not as picky about an axe as I am a knife regarding style, steel etc.
That would be a bummer
I just bought one not to long ago keep it behind my truck seat have not cut alot of wood yet great sheath also great axe to show people that camp alot
Gary Herring I agree. It is a solid camp axe.
Good video and a nice review. I plan on picking up both the 26" and the 16" versions.
Enjoy it
I'm finally going to get one for my collection
I just used mine yesterday, it’s a beast.
Cool
Looks perfect for backpacking
Little heavy for me to backpack
Estwing make some great hammers. I used them for years building house. Thanks for the video.
Yeah, I've got a couple of Estwing hammers that have been really abused, you just can't break 'em.
not a bad axe ! I have a dog next dorr also that barks ever time I open the door lol nice vid !
Thanks. Yeah, the poor dog spends all day chained to a tree so he is probably pretty neurotic. He seems to know exactly when I hit the Record button on my camera.
i have had one for about ten years now ok at splitting oak and straight grained woods. it is better than a tomahawk when you are in the woods
It is a workhorse.
the one I have is one size smaller and has served me well for years
Well there you go
I finally bought an Estwing axe. My Boys broke 2 handles by mistake learning...also Mr Porcupine like the salt on the last handle. I just use wedges any how for big spitting. I use a round stone for sharpening. It a small working axe...not a loggers axe...perfect for arround the camp for me.
They are tough
Twist on impact to split - estwing can take it!
Ahh the video that introduced me to my favorite TH-cam Channel I actually bought one of these suckers today and stashed it under the back seat of my pickup. the thought of being on Shenandoah Mountain and having to chop through a 14 inch tree over the trail with a 14 inch camp axe like that kid did the other day... Yeah. That's what did it. Kid saved our trip and was the only one ready. I was in somebody elses truck so I counted on them and the other 25 jeeps... mistake # 1. Be Prepared.
Pretty good motto.
Seems to work pretty good I'd say. But in reality it's be as prepared as ya possibly can. I mean you can't always have a cooler full of steaks with you any more than you can have an axe of this size. but if my truck is pulling the weight. Who cares? I mean a hickory handle feels better but if excuse me when I overstrike, break my axe and my excursion ends up with us having to back off the mountain.... I reckon I could fashion a handle for an axe but dude, do I want to? do my friends wanna wait for me to? NO! I mean these are survival items but in all reality I have dedicated the last 14 years to making sure y'all will never need them for that.
Hey when's the Channel's or your you pick birthday? In case i wanted to send you something that wouldn't cost you money?
Jake Riethmeier Ha. Funny you should ask. My birthday is Feb 20. I'll be, gulp, 55. It's funny, I remember when I first started plumbing 30 years ago, my mentor was 55 and I thought he was an old man. It doesn't seem so old to me now ;-)
thx for the video brother ! estwing makes great reliable products!
Yep, I've been using their hammers for years too.
That's a whole lotta Axe to carry if you're hiking to your campsite! At least it would be for me....... Otherwise, looks great! Thanks for the video, Brian. Love the work you do.
Yeah, not a backpacker's axe
i have one,cost 55.00 delivered to my door,not a bad little axe, but seemed light to me.not so good for splitting but most other tasks it handled well. i have had it probably 10 yrs,...a good buy in my opinion
+Pappy It isn't perfect but it is very tough and decent steel.
i agree,a little thin bladed for splitting,but an overall good deal
Nice new opening to your videos. Nice axe.
Thanks for noticing the tweak to the opening.
The Esting No1 hatchet is all I've ever needed. I love that thing, but this on has an H cross section (Like an I beam, only wider) all the way down from the ricasso to the end of the tang. Damned near unbreakable, the shank will snap before that handle will.
Since you're doing this, survival on a shoestring. Check out the "Mossberg" Bird, and trout set. I have a 2 knife philosophy: A nice sharp little knife for surgery, and a beater to keep the nice sharp knife nice, and sharp. The sheathe is cheap, replace it. Other than that, this 2 knife set works for me. (With a heavy hatchet, or machete for real woodworking.) I love the ring pommel, because you can hang it from your pinkie while you use your fingers. Filleting a trout, skinning bats (Boil the fat, and protein out of them) or whatever. Sometimes you want to use your fingers, and not put down your knife.
thanks
Say Heah Brian, Yeah, Even though I have some Swedish Axes and Hatchets, I also have a couple of German Axes. But I really like my Estwings, I have the 14" leather handle then the 17" shock absorbing handle and the 26" handle, I also have the Double Bit Hatchet that's giving my leather handle Hatchet a break. Recently I bought a 26" Husqvarna All Purpose Forest Axe, But I had to send it back because the eye was defective and safety is very important especially when it comes to axes. I exchanged it for a German Ochsenkopf Axe, made by Iltis Oxhead, It's a 1200g (2.7.lbs) with a 700mm (27.5+") heft. I got the Rotband Plus which is a steel sleeve and metal eve cover that unites the head and handle. But yeah, my Estwings are defenetly Aces.
They are just solid
They sure are, I can even baton on them.
great axe, but bring up your maul. got lots of firewood to split. it was down to -36 the other morning. those estwing axes last a life time. nice video, keep them coming
36 below huh? I used to work with a guy from Montana. One day we were talking about the weather and he mentioned it was 12 above. I told him I wasn't sure if I would want to live somewhere you had to specify above or below when talking about the weather. It's 20 here this morning, and I thought that was cold.
Stay warm.
in england if estwing breaks on you you can take it to a iron monger and they will give you a new one just like snap on do i rekon for the money there worth every penny or cent
That is good.
Out here in the Mojave Desert it is the perfect ax!🏜️🪓🏜️🪓🏜️🪓
I can see that. Not many trees to deal with.
I have an estwing hatchet. It's really beat up, but it still works great and is RAZOR sharp.
+Mason Thornburgh Nice
you could patina the steel with mustard then oil it if you still have it , thats what I've done to my hatchet (unknown brand) it works fairly nice to keep rust away
Good idea.
Survival On Purpose no problem , I live in Georgia , the humidity causes unprotected carbon steel knives and tools to Rust rather quick , so I've done that so I don't have to constantly use a wire brush to keep rust to a minimum and as far as the mustard patina , you just put on a pattern you like , let it sit half an hour , clean it off , put a second layer , let it sit another half hour , then do the other sides , the poll of the Axe can do fine with one coat , its time consuming , but prevents your knives and tools from getting rusted up very quickly
Could you please elaborate on the mustard patina?
I have the middle sized one without the tube-type extension. the shorter length is more packable for canoeing or camping but obviously less power for big stuff. have you tried this model?
I have not
Say Heah Brian, I have the three sizes of Estwing's and the Double Bit Hatchet. I also like teaming either my Estwing Spotrsman or my Camoer's Hatchet with my Blackbird SK-5 or similar knives. I think Estwing makes a good axe.,,.
Me too
I know, That's why I like to view your vid's.,,.
I own one of these its great, I was concerned about the handle breaking from a missed strike, but it has held up well. Back when I used to build houses I had seen two metal handled estwing hammers break, both were 19oz hammers and both broke while trying to force a piece of lumber into a place that was not big enough for it. Both broke about halfway down the handle..
nice axe man!
Thanks.
Thanks Bryan, I'm thinking about getting the 16 inch version. Btw...there something behind your fence stalking you. ;-)
Brian, I use my Estwing's to split too, infact that 26" you have, I can make kindling all day with mine, Yup I Axe Tap riggt through the logs and no problemo.
+paulie 4x absolutely.
the handle is welded into a tube but over all its an ok axe and good general purpose tool ive used to baton stuff that is way too large by hitting the metal handle ts a great little axe
+draconus15 I agree.
the head not the handle sorry i was focusing on my computer screwing up
i feather stick just fine with campers axe....same steel...i think they are a 1080 tool carbon steel...i just wish the axe was a little longer and heavier....but a great tool
Yes it is
I hade a Mastercraft one (China copy) I broke it were the handle tube and the solid neck was joined. pretty sure estwing makes them better.
+ason robert Most likely.
great axe bryan
Thanks. I like it.
what would be a better gift this or the Smith and Wesson destruction axe ??
I think this would be a better outdoor gift.
Maybe not the best ax in the world but not the worst either. Never had the head come off of mine.
+Dwight E Howell Hah. Mine either.
Like the channel keep the vids coming
Thanks Ben.
Have you seen or tried the 4 in 1 Zippo woodsman sax/hatchet? If so, thoughts?
I have one but I have not used it yet
nice axe and video
Thank you.
I am a new subscriber. Do you ever review other hatchets and different axes?
+Ben Schildgen I have. Just use the search function on the channel page.
I think there great axes myself, an own one an will buy the larger one
They are tough
Brian, mine bits deep and throws some good chunks, ,
east wing does make some great products.
..bill
I agree. They are very high value gear in my opinion.
my 26" estwing campers axe broke yesterday. I only had it for about a year.
+Shane Lewis Wow! Have you contacted Estwing?
+Survival On Purpose no, as I'm not entirely sure how I should go about contacting them.
have you ever seen the estwing pocket knife ?
I have not. I will have to check that out.
I love your videos and wisdome but isn't the desin of this axe for choppin rather than splittin?!
I think so but they call it a Camp Axe and, in my experience, an axe is used a lot around camp for splitting firewood.
Estwing Campers Axe is used helpful us.
yep
Hey man I wanna be better also. The fire was so good i could almost smell the smoke
That's probably LA you smell
I even use a baton on mine on stubburn wood, , ,
+paulie 4x There ya go.
Their saying the Estwing's are made of Drop Forge 1055, , a Cold rolled tool steel, , ,
I have one and honestly it is not that great for actual work. edge retention is garbage from factory as it is too soft so I had to re-harden and temper it. Be prepared to do double if not triple the work than other axes. Being rugged does not outweigh the workload
I think of it as a general purpose beater axe
i had one but i sold it the steel was soft, few chops and it went dull
It is not the hardest steel in the world.
lol , i also had a friskers axe and the vibration when hitting the wood was to much, i sold that to, went back to wood.
Good tool but the blade cover sucks you dont want to to have to make a new one fits to tight and snap tear out
Painted mine Olive green cause everyone liked it too much.
So they don't like green?
I would much rather have a Zippo Woodsman 4 in 1. But I do like your channel though.
Thanks
That axe actually isn't one solid piece of steel. Per what I was told by Estwing, it's actually a 2 piece construction. The head/neck is is is a single forged piece that's inserted & welded into a steel "tube" handle. However, I've ever only saw one break & that was from severe misuse & I'd, by no means, discredit it. For their price, they're a decent, well made axe.
Thanks. I appreciate it.
According to Estwing, that is not a solid, one piece of tool steel construction. The lower handle (blue) is a different kind of steel in a tube shape that is heat bonded in some fashion (welded / brazed maybe?) to the tool steel head. Only the smaller axes/hatchets are one piece through the tang/handle. Now, with that in mind, I own one of these axes and have tortured it with no complaints. Although I will say that you need to cold sharpen these axes. They do lose their heat treating if you use power sharpening on uncooled stones/wheels. I did mine quickly with a belt sander once and I rolled that edge with the first few chops...
***** Well, I learned something new today. Cool. I always sharpen mine with a file and then a stone. I'm just old school ;-)
What!?! No balance calibration test!?!
+Bob Buchholz I think I made this one before I had fully developed my advance testing protocol.
Understandable. Come to think of it, I did notice the lack of your usual, state of the art, testing facility. Forgiven! Go forth and continue testing, young man. I'm 61. I can call you that.
I will answer to that too ;-)
i have large hands and swinging with both hands...my hand i have squeeze close together i can get an edge on it where i can shave my arm hair
cool
Eric Clapton is a lumberjack now...
He actually used to be a bricklayer.
Great Knife....lol
+Outlawstar79 Hmmm.
hey brother send me the thickness, length, and height measurements of that axe head. and ill make u a nice leather sheath for it ! free of charge! something i like to do when bored lol. maybe trace the head profile on a sheet of paper and send it to me !
Wow! Thanks. I sent you a PM.
Mine throws really well. Sorry brian
+Mason Thornburgh Hmmm
A have done what he is doing at 5:00 with a knife before and I litterly almost cut my finger off it was insane
Good think you didn't
? You saying that I did not almost cut my finger off?
I have the scare to prove it
+ManNamed Darrlle I wasn't saying that at all.
+Survival On Purpose then what was you saying ?
Triangle of Death!!!
Really? I looked and can't find it, but it would not be the first time I have done something stupid.
Thats my truck axe, and it can do feather sticks. You're dead on, its not a good splitter.
But it is almost bulletproof
Why dull your axe splitting wood that's what a wedge is for
If that works for you great.
It's too heavy for what it can do. The shock to the elbow is terrible. They have to be sharpened much more often then some other axes like the Council Tool Boy's ax. Sometimes things made in the past are better than things made today. I prefer the traditional ax.
I hear you. That's why I like that there are so many choices in the marketplace now. I personally prefer my Wetterling's, but for those who don't care about traditional design and don't want to spend $100 and up for an axe, the Estwing is a very capable general use axe that will last for years with reasonable care. And if you often camp with inexperienced people, it is definitely the better choice for them to borrow ;-)
I have the 19" Wetterlings which I love and I found it for about $80.00 online about a year and a half ago. But for a mid range 27" ax I am going to purchase the Council tool Boy's ax. I have seen many good reviews, and things said about it by Woods Trekker and others. I also heard the customer service is great and is 1/4 to 1/3 the price of the Wetterlings 26". I also like the fact that the steel is not quite as hard as the Wetterling or Gransfords Brooks, since I will be using it in subzero weather which can sometimes cause the Swedish axes to break. Woods Trekker made this point and I agree.
Yeah, I have an old official Boy Scout Axe that I re-hafted but I didn't take enough time and it didn't turn out too well. Maybe one day I'll re-do it and make a video. I may thing about getting a Council Tools Boy's Axe and review it. We'll see. Thanks. - Bryan
It was a silly response to your knife batoning video .
+Chuck Polinko ;-)
I have the hatchet love it but what idiot would use a ax to split wood when you can carry a hydraulic log splitter. LOL
+Chuck Polinko Can you?
Time to cancel amazon and the rest of the big tech companies. Cancel them all!!
looks dangerous
+Daniel Rosado many things are
3:13 eeek
+BurntEyes I know. I always hated doing that. Looks like a try out for Alone, doesn't it?
Yeah thats what went through my head!
What was the point of showing an axe not designed for wood splitting, in that role? This is as pointless as showing wood splitting with a knife!
The point was to show the capabilities and limitations of the tool to help people make informed decisions. You are absolutely right, this axe is not designed for splitting but everyone may not know that. And some folks might be wondering how well this axe would work as an all around camp axe, which is it's official name after all. In my experience, most people do some splitting with their axe while camping and most don't being a dedicated splitter. Just as a lot of folks want to know if a knife is capable of being used to split wood in a pinch. Merry Christmas.
cyanide meat works charms on annoying barking dogs, or you can just go out in the night and silently dispatch them. Or, you can be like me and wait until they violate noise ordinance laws and call the cops. Yeah, I'm a law abider, but I really dislike the sound of barking dogs. Just watching this vid with the barking is giving me a panic attack.
I really don't blame the dogs. If I was chained to a tree I would probably bark