Axe Vs Machete, Which Should You Carry?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 ก.ย. 2022
- In Camping, Hiking, Survival or Bushcraft theres always been the choice of carrying an Axe or a Machete. Theres no clear cut answer due to variables but in this video we take a look at the different kinds of cutting tools and the uses and benefits of what they can do for you.
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A couple of years ago I was trying to split some sticks for kindling with a small axe and I was holding the wood with my off hand to start it, the piece split out the side and the head stuck in the back of my hand this was before the girl did it on alone needless to say I use a machete for almost everything now. I love your videos especially when Nick is commenting on the side, thanks guys.
There's always chicken sticks if you don't want to hold what you're chopping, I use them with an axe to make kindling for our fire. More people should learn the chicken stick method to avoid injury.
I think the way Dave did his kindling with an axe is great. It's the way I do it. Just set the axe on the side of the wood, and hit both on the side of a log. You can get really really small with that, and have no danger.
Ah I hate to hear that! It's just one of them things everyone has done forever and sometimes it's safe and sometimes it's disastrous. Thanks for sharing that and thanks for watching
Yes yes stay away from the lazor
NEVER hold wood you are splitting with your hand! You got what is expected as did the girls on Alone. Safety is paramount to survival. You take chances you may not survive!
Great presentation as always. Choice boils down to tasks at hand, environment & mode of transport, choose wisely.
Very well said Chad, and thanks for watching!
After ~40 years of carrying my original military machete, directly accessible atop my rucksack (with the handle behind my right ear), I managed to break one side of the grips. My son named the old machete "the beast," as it had suffered plenty of abuse and minor damage.
So I wrapped some OD 100 mph tape over the cracked grip and have kept it in service to our family. That tool has been many, many places on deployments and family campouts almost 50 years. It's in the trunk of my Volvo right now.
That's fantastic you have had it that long! Thanks for sharing that
Great video. ANOTHER great video. And don't ever think we don't appreciate the trouble and time it takes for you to make these informative videos for us.
You are very welcome Al and I'm glad you like the videos! They are a lot of work but still fun for me. Thanks for watching
Thank you for taking the time to make such an informative video on the Axe and Machete choices available. It comes down to a personal selection of the correct tool for the job, and this video addresses that issue perfectly.
You are very welcome Lainey and Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
Another great informative video David. Love seeing you and Nick having Fun In The Woods. Been watching y’all for many years now,and y’all never disappoint.
Thanks Randy! We are glad you liked it brother and thanks for watching
Thanks for another great video Dave and Nick. Very interesting to see these comparisons. 👍
You are very welcome Ian and thanks for watching brother
Hi David & Nick: thanks for sharing your "outdoor adventures". Best regards, Michael
Hello Michael and we are always happy to share. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
I don't get out much any more at 77--sigh--but preferred a saw for felling or sectioning down wood. The size of the saw varied with the season and the needs, from small folding saws to a 30 inch fixed bow saw for car camping when hunting (which will cut almost as well as a chain saw with no noise, but can be a workout on large wood after a while), but power tools (a chain saw) are nice car camping if appropriate. Always used a knife for shavings if needed. I have a couple of twig stoves I have always wanted to try but never used, but look like a cool idea in weather where you can have an open fire safely. A full sized axe for hunting camp in the fall, but I have pack sized axes as well which I got for walking in a few miles with a deluxe camp (read: too much weight for a real back packing trip) in cold weather. I even have a small folding titanium stove for a teepee tent I had hoped to use for a back pack in elk camp, but the lock downs and then some health issues caused me to put that aside. Maybe next year....
@Geezer, am 77 too, feelin yer pain! Now in a retirement community, I've divested myself of all outdoors related goods, Jeep to guns, camper to rods & reels, all else included! Thankfully, there's my TH-cam friends like Dave & Nick! At least we have vicarious thrills...
Best wishes...
Thanks for the comments and I too love a bow saw for larger firewood. Hopefully you'll be able to get out into the wilderness again. Take care and thanks for watching
Keep doin that stuff as long as you possibly can!! I work for a tree landscape company and we a 74 yo who’s badass. He still prunes (on the ground) and drives big trucks to jobs. Gives me a lot of inspiration
I wanted to go hunting this fall (I live in Colorado and elk hunted for years), but all the friends have issues, so a no go as getting an elk out by yourself is a job for young heroes--but I did buy a new pair of hunting boots (actually to wear in the snow). LOL! I am fit enough for backpacking in the summer with the modern lightweight gear, but gas for the trip would be an issue in terms of cost--got an old pickup. Not as badass as the guy Notquiteultralight mentions, but fit enough, and I work at keeping things that way as long as I can. I have kept the toys, and will keep them --I already live in a retirement townhome, and the younger family has their toys already, so I will just keep mine until I am forced to "simplify" my life, hopefully another 20 years if family history is any guide.
@@geezerdude4873
Stay active.
Great to hear your way of doing at that age.
👍
Thanks for the video, Dave! I've been debating on weather or not to buy an axe for awhile. Being from the same neck of the woods, your advice and videos are the most helpful ones on TH-cam for me.
You are very welcome and I'm glad you like the videos! I'd say if you like in the south get a machete first and a axe later. If you plan on doing any heavy chopper lean towards a parang. Thanks for watching my friend
Awesome discussion and thanks for showing us all of those different categories and what cool collections!
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it
Most of my bushcrafting is day hiking. Leaving hatchet/axe at home. Love my Ontario SP8 machete for all my bushcraft jobs. Always learn something new from your vids. Thanks.
Thanks for the comments Big Jim and it's great to hear you've learned from the videos! Thanks for watching
Hey Dave! Nice job with the side by side comparisons and the variety of machetes and axes. I agree with you with it all depends on what you plan to do. If we get out enough, eventually, we start figuring out which tools general work for each of us. One of the things that I noticed is that you take very good care of your equipment. Thanks for putting this together and sharing. I know it takes a lot of work to piece together these videos. Have a great weekend brother!
Thanks, Im glad you liked it ! I definitely take care of my equipment. No cutting tool ever gets stored after a trip without a good wipe down, oiling and sometimes even a polish. Take care and Thanks for watching Brother!
An incredibly in-depth video on the pros and cons of both the axe and machete.
Thank you for putting these videos together.
My last comment on one of your videos regarding types of fire, one pot or trench, I had no idea of the amount of knowledge your channel had to offer. An oasis of Hints, tips and techniques regarding survival and fun in the woods.
Your videos are a pleasure to watch, entertaining and informative.
Both axe and machete have their place in tools to obtain and use, but for me, the machete is the more adaptable tool to have and the one I carry when I venture into the woods.
Cheers !
Thanks! I'm glad you like the videos so much! I can agree the machete is definitely the most versatile tool there is. Thanks for watching my friend
A1 analysis as always Dave. Thank you Nick for the camera work.
Thanks!
Excellent review and I love how you and your son work together, as well. Hopefully he is learning as we all are.
Thanks Paul! We are glad you liked it. Often times Nick and I really do learn together! Take care and thanks for watching
My choice would be an axe, because the local police don't like one who carries a big knife. Axe is safer for others, I think.
Ah, good point. You always have to follow local laws and regulations. Thanks for watching
I love it. Take whatever one you think is cool. That’s right, Nick. Very sage advice. This really was a fun video watch. Thanks man
Thanks Shane, we are glad you liked it. Also to add, carry and use what you feel safest with. Thanks for watching
i love Nicks words of wisdom ,great points just at the right times ..great video btw .always enjoy them most ,when you got Nick with you .. god bless you both ...Lee
Nick is pretty wise for his age. We are glad you liked it and for me it's always more fun with Nick around. Thanks for watching and may God bless you too Lee!
As somebody living in a tropical country, my experience with both basically points to a few things; environment, availability, and experience.
In northern parts of the world such as the US and Canada, where huge predatory animals and harsh weather conditions are common, building a robust and impenetrable shelter has been a need throughout history and staying in one could be the difference between life and death. Not to mention how fires are vital in the winter time and requires almost constant wood splitting. Considering how thick hardwood trees are the most available resource, a heavy and solid tool like an axe is the ideal go-to.
In the tropics (well, in my corner of the world at the very least) there's not really much need to build a permanent and impenetrable shelter like a log cabin or have a fire constantly burning. Most of the ancestral indigenous peoples were nomads who needed to keep things light and portable. Those who preferred to stay in one place take into account the constant humidity and rain in building and maintaining shelters, and so designed their homes to have its individual parts be easily replaceable so that when one breaks, the rest don't need to be replaced. A lightweight and versatile tool like a machete (or a sword depending on historical records) was ideal.
Given the historical context of both, they will be easily available in their respective countries. A quality handmade machete similar to the ones that are actually used by people in the tropics (cold steel machetes are overpriced garbage in my opinion) can be a bit difficult to find locally in the northern parts of the world and vice versa.
But regardless of the two points I made, it will all come down to what you're comfortable in using. If I'm to survive in the northern wilderness, my personal preference would be to use a machete since that's what I'm used to. Of course it's not ideal for long term survival as per my first point, but I'd be better off with what I'm used to in the short term.
@@kreigthepsycho very well said and thanks for the comments
Ok. The latin machete is a tool for clearing and cutting like sugar cane. The blade is long and thin because is to be use all day long. Mainly use for that. But can be use for bushcraft. Then the 1/4 inch thick " machetes" are really a chopper. Is not a tool you want to use all day long in a sugar cane field. Only if you want arms like a bodybuilder. Also the thin blade help to cut faster the sugar cane. That why i call it a machete. 1/4 inch thick chopper. Thanks for all the good info.
Thats a good way of putting it Joe. The manufacturers should have adopted the name chopper instead of warping the definition of machete. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
Also in the jungle or in some forests with dense vegetation an 18+ inch machete protects your hand and arm against brushes and vines and you´re more productive. With a small blade your hand and arm collide against the vegetation.
A few years ago I bought at a garage sale a Gerber compact backpackers hatchet with unknown to me at the time a small fixed blade knife in the handle. It's really handy and not to heavy to carry on you belt. I love that basque axe. BTW if you ever have a garage sale I will drive from Oklahoma to attend 😂. Great video and look forward to the next one.
I think I've seen those Gerbers with that knife in the handle before. Very clever design. Lol, no garage sale anytime soon! Thanks for watching Sam
Dave. I remember the video that you did about that axe owned by Sergeant Major Richardson. A wonderful story, so well told by you, and one beautiful axe. That thing is awesome! I have an old AMES double bit Michigan Axe from my grandpa that I need to restore. Cheers to you and Nick!! .... from lovely Petoskey, MI.
Very cool you remember that Derek! I'm very very honored to have his axe. I plan on keeping it and taking care of it for a long time. Thanks for watching my friend
Always get a lot of useful information in the content. You are one knowledgeable guy! Thank you for the lessons and the fun video.
You are very welcome Tracey and I'm glad you liked it
4:30 Is that Meow Mix for you or for the cats? lol 🤣
Lol, definitely the cats. They make good bags for hand drill materials
This was a very informative and entertaining video, Dave. While other you tubers carefully edit out their mistakes, you show us reality and that you might have to try a few times to get the desired result.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it. I try to show it all, good and bad. That way people will know exactly what could happen. Thanks for watching Ghost
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Yes, thats very important when you're considering a survival situation and having to use a specific tool in a non specific manner. Thanks again for the video.
My brother got to experience my condor bushcraft parang for the first time yesterday, he's not very experienced using a machete so I gave him the cold steel kukri machete first lol. Once he was warmed up I gave him the Condor lol and he loved it, he said thing is a beast and we were clearing out underbrush, thorns, vines, and varying sized trees all the way up to 4". I had a saw with me and he wouldn't let me use it, "this thing is way to much fun" lol. He also said he wouldn't be mad if I picked him one up lol, I told him now he sees why that bushcraft parang is my favorite go to woods tool. Great video and glad to see your back!
Very cool! Anyone that's swung a lot of machetes wind up sticking with the bushcraft parang. That is one fun tool. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching brother!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 yes it is lol definitely one they got right 🤣
your shows are so long but I still watch till the end thanks for what you put out
They are long but I only put out two videos every month. Thanks for watching Jack.
I feel they both won . They both have their purpose! They both work . For me it's easier to sharpen the machete then the ax . Great informative video as always Dave! Take care and stay safe my friend !!
Well said Troy, they both win but I think if you're more confident with a certain tool that's the clear choice. thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
Testing for cutting abilities and weight limitations are well demonstrated. What you have shown clearly is that the machete is far superior as far as safety and energy conservation is concerned. After all if you are camping, hiking or in a survival situation the one thing of the utmost importance is to avoid an axe-ident...! "Safety First".
Your efforts and insights are enjoyed by all. Thank you, both.
Enjoy your weeks ends. Please keep those videos coming Dave, we love them.
Very well said! Not only would it be safer but in the rare event of a survival situation you'll probably be tired, weak and not have the strength or accuracy for an axe. I'm glad you liked it and thanks for watching my friend!
Gah, thumbs up purely for the pun haha!
@@OldNavajoTricks Some lessons are better not to learn the hard way? th-cam.com/video/etfIVV8Kc_A/w-d-xo.html
I really enjoyed seeing the comparisons. Thanks for the great videos!
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. They are definitely fun to make!
Excellent video! Very enjoyable and informative. Thanks for sharing it
Thanks William! I'm glad you liked it
Very detailed and in depth assessment of what each tool is capable of. How do you ever make up your mind on what to carry on a regular trip with such a amazing selection to choose from!? Great video Sir! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Lol, man its very hard to choose sometimes. It kinda depends on what mode of transportation I am using. I actually use a bicycle a lot more than I show on video. Thanks for watching
I've been told I'm half axe! Enjoyed the video! ATB Sam Adler from Vietnam
Lol! I'm glad you liked it Sam and thanks for watching
Another Uncle Dave's blade fests. I always love these no matter the outcome. Thanks to you and Nick for a fun time.
Thanks! We are glad you liked it!
Another awesome video! I really enjoyed seeing each tool used for the individual tasks, and your comments about what one might need for their area. I gotta say though, that Kabar kukri machete, that got undershown. IMHO it chops really great (granted you had a moving target) and for fire prep it does tracker like curls but done tracker style on the draw. So thanks again for pointing me to that, its a lifer.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it and found it helpful! I love that Kabar kukri
The Australian army went to the parang style machete after the Vietnam war, i use a modified machete when I go bush. I hardly ever use an axe. Cheers David, thanks for all you do.
Sounds good to me! I'm mostly a machete guy but I do like an axe in the winter. Thanks for watching my friend
Yes! Safety glasses for chopping into a tree. I know about that... I've had wood chips hit my eyes, but I have also had sap go in my eyes at times I didn't wear those. I even had sap shoot into my eyes removing bark with my knife. It somehow just pops out of blisters with a fair amount of force sometimes. So, yeah, chopping, removing bark or branches... wear the safety glasses/goggles.
Ive never seen that with sap but you definitely have a good point there
IMO everyone should wear gloves and safety glasses whenever working with bladed tools.
Well done...another wonderful presentation...thank you for taking the time to help educate the followers...
Thanks Mark! I'm glad you liked it and I'm always happy to share this stuff
I love this could not stop watching. Great job
Fantastic to hear that Chris!
Good Morning Dave! Hope you have a great weekend 😊
Up here it’s usually an axe, New England is less viney than your neck of the woods! Yes I know machetes aren’t just for vines.. lol.. I’ve got the bushcraft parang and I love it.. it’s just not the same thing ..
ATB
Good morning Ruth! Yep, most up North with say an axe but down south we still enjoy swinging one. That Bushcraft parang sometimes feels like an axe. You have a good weekend too and thanks for watching
I’ve always said axe for hard and weathered wood, machete for softwood, saw for processing.
If I could only have two cutting tools in the wilderness it’d be an axe and a small utility knife like a morakniv.
Pretty much every civilization that was known for their survival skills used this combination. From the Vikings and Native Americans to the Eskimos and African tribes.
I wouldn’t carry a machete simply because sometimes it just won’t work. It’s the best thing for clearing brush but it’s multi-use capability makes it a Jack of all trades and master of none. Processing fish would be a pain. Cutting down Oak would be almost impossible. I see a saw as unnecessary for a single individual , it’s very much an enterprising tool.
Good observation. A machete can do anything but, it's not a master of these chores. An axe and a knife is a proven combo but, I guarantee if primitive people had access to small folding saws they'd love them! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
Well it's Sat morning,I watched half of it Friday morning over coffee then had to get things done ,but just finished up this morning.Glad you put them chopping goggles on I was hollering at you but you came through and camera man gonna have to get some too lol,but very interesting video and like you proved that's why there's different tools for different jobs.i think that the skinny log you was chopping on was too bouncee and that would have changed the results on the firewood splitting but you and Nick always entertain us with your comraderi and spending time in the woods.Cant wait to see what's coming up for fall bushcrafting and maybe them dang skeeters go somewhere else! Thanks again Dave and Nick and we will be awaiting next Friday morning sunrise video.
Safety glasses are important is a lot of different ways. Im actually amazed that other bushcrafters never mentioned them. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching Brother
Thanks for the informative testing Dave. I have to agree with Nick on using the machete instead of the axe that winded you. Your videos are always a bright light in my day!
You are very welcome and Im glad you liked it. Yep, Nick called it right and I didnt even think about it. The axe does more but if it wears me out what good is it? Thanks for watching
@@Reallybigmonkey1
But it was only a 30 seconds test.
It would be interesting when you would go through that whole tree with the axe and machete.
Then the results will be more telling.
Good competition !
One thing which could be mentioned ,possibly ,is maintainence in the field.
For survival or one tool option an important point.
Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Good point, will the edge last? Or can you sharpen it with a rock if needed? Thanks for watching
Alllll right! Another exciting episode of fun in the woods! ❤ Pretty good demonstrations Dave and good zooming in and out Nick.
I’ve decided. If I go camping I’ll bring multiple tools to keep all skills honed with the kids but for efficiency I’m bringing my stihl 26 inch chain saw to cut those logs I’m going to burn during the burn seasons. Hey there’s a video ideas for y’all. Chain saw versus sp53 hahahah joking joking
Thanks for stopping by brother
Thanks for the info David!....cool demonstrations!
Thanks for watching Brother!
one of most educational video on different Bushcraft and camping or hiking tools
Thank you my friend!
Hi Dave, I'm with you bud, it all depends on what you plan to do. I have an axe that's pretty much the same size as the last one you used (my handle is probably an inch or two shorter), and I have what I call a carpenters hatchet (some people call them a roofers hatchet) that has a hammer head on the back of the blade. I rarely take the axe, but almost always take the hatchet when I go camping because of how much more versatile it is. I also always bring either of folding saw or a bow saw as well. As usual, you've made another great video my friend, keep up the good work and Rock On!
Thanks for the comments Brother and well said. I didn't mention it in the video but I always carry a folding saw or a bow saw depending on what time of year it is. Take care and thanks for watching
Yeah, I would take the hatchet over the axe also.
More convenient in use, and carry ...and packs plenty of power to go through some wood.
I carry both with a compliment of other knives, saws and etc. All depends on terrain and purpose of being in the boonies. My tool selection always changes. Machetes are good, like canes and sticks for getting rid of spiders who build webs across pathways. I also carry spears in snakey territory using the edge as a knife or a decapitator for dangerous snakes. I wear snake boots frequently but snakes can also attack from limbs at head or neck heighth, though rare. Spears are great for chopping them off of tree limbs or in underbrush. Well Dave, thank you for this wonderful video. Take good care and God bless you and the ones you love, I love you as a brother ! Make Nick behave himself !
Thanks for the comments Peter and we are glad you liked the video! You brought up some fantastic points about spears and snakes. If you go after one with a machete that's just getting too close in my book. Thanks for watching and may God bless you too Brother!
G'day Peter, speaking of snakes; at the beginning of a walk I cut around a 6 ft staff/hiking pole with a 'Y" fork intact at the top end to pin a snakes head, (or at least close to it), from a distance should the need arise. The bottom end of which is still available to carve a spear point or chisel edge for a digging stick at quick notice. Cheers Duke.
Snakes do not attack. They defend against you.
@@falconmoose5435 Fair comment mate, for the most part true enough. However, we do have some real nasties here in oz and if you unwittingly stand, on, or close to, one, or get between it and its nest, um yeah ...............
They have also been known to turn up at campsites, maybe the warmth of a fire, or sheer luck, who knows but either way, not exactly desirable, lol.
I even had a juvenile Eastern Brown, (not good), on my front doorstep in outer suburbia and inside the home is fairly common further out too.
Bottom line, attack or defence, better to be ready I reckon. Cheers Duke.
@@falconmoose5435 Tell that to the huge water mocassins I have killed in Florida and North Carolina. They have been known to stalk victims for short distances. Copperheads are much more docile and rattlesnakes (western) are somewhat between the two. The biggest rattlers I have ever seen are in Florida. Last year, a friend of mine killed three Boa constrictors, not considered native to the Carolinas and they were all within about a quarter of a mile range from a church. He had them in the back of his pick up and left them there for a few days to show the authorities, people from the church and his buddies. I have another friend that hunts poisonous snakes for a living and sells them to a research institute. We have all witnessed aggressive snakes. I can tell you lots of snake stories from my experiences as well as experiences of these others. Some snakes will slither away from you when they detect your approach while others will stand their ground, especially if their nest is nearby. I have yet to figure out what makes stalkers tick, it may be they feel the heat from your footsteps or vibrations of you walking and they see you as a threat or they are territorial and you are on their turf. Pit vipers range in temperaments and reasons why they do things. I have come extremely close, sometimes within inches to be bitten by them and other snakes without venom but loaded with toxic bacteria in their bites who will attack just as fast and won't let go if they bite. Snakes, spiders and flying biters are the things I always prepare for before going out in the boonies by hoof or boat.
Love the Verona ! Another great Vid Guys. TAKE CARE..
Thanks! We are glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
Interesting, I just did a video on my CS Kukri plus out splitting my Estwing camp Axe in a test. Keep up the great work. I gotta tune in here more often 😎👍
Really? A kukri out split an axe? I'll have to have a look! Thanks for watching Steve
The colder it gets, the more you need an axe. North USA, Canada, Alaska. Axe. Southern USA? Machete.
Yep, I can agree with that!
Oh wow I caught this one fresh off the shelves!! I'm an Axe guy being I'm in Sweden :)
My axe is a Hultafors Agdor "small outdoors axe" its not for chopping down big trees but nice for smaller stuff.
Very cool to hear that Andy!
That's a very good multi purpose axe
Gents, thanks for such an informative vid., many great takeaways! I liked the fact that you let the big unspoken truth be demonstrated by the impressive number of chips flying about, that being to always have a seriously sharp edge on one's working tools! I was on the lookout, never was there a finger, foot or other apendage placed in harms way. Please keep leading by example. It's probably easy to slough off and let technique born of lengthy exposure "handle it," but your concern for the newbies shines thru, as it should! Happy trails to you both, and here's to cooler weather and some overnights, RRC
You are very welcome and I'm glad you liked it Roy! I try my best to emphasize safety and not showing any bad habits. Take care and thanks for watching
17:20 Oh Nick, you funny guy. lol Hey, I joke like that alot too. Humour keeps me going.
Humor keeps us young!
It depends on the environment. I used to camp in rain forest jungle.. we brought saw, axe and parang. Parang is good for clearing vines, quick cut of certain types vines for drinking water (survival scenario), etc. Axe is for larger trees, woods, and use as a hammer (pegs into ground, etc.). A saw is a must for bamboo. Bamboo can be chop easily with parang but it will splinter. To prevent splintering, a saw is a must.
That's some good tool philosophy David. Thanks for sharing that and thanks for watching
Yes, this is a vs video, but I'll mention how it is for me when it comes to really going out for camping & bushcraft... I have my Morakniv Companion for little jobs. I'll either bring my Schrade SCHF45 Bowie Knife or my Morakniv Bushcraft Pathfinder (bought this year) for bigger jobs and I'll bring my Silky F180 Pro folding saw. I always like to have the 3 tools with me out there. The Schrade SCHF45 is preferred for chopping and removing branches from trees. But I could do okay with the Mora Pathfinder in it's place. For splitting big logs, I'd definitely prefer the SCHF45.
Agreed. The Schrade SCHF45 aka "Leroy", is a wonderful cutting/chopping tool.
Sounds good to me. I've got a Mora on me pretty much every time I go out
David … Axe vs. machete: your final analysis was spot on!!! So my answer … axe vs. machete … is YES!!! Plus buck saw, sheath knife and my Swiss Army knife; I don’t go anywhere except court and jail without my Swiss Army knife. David, you and Nick take care, be safe and God bless!!! Chuck Knight from Buffalo, Texas. 🤠👨🌾✝️🙏🖖👍👋
Well said Chuck! And I didnt mention it in the video but I never go out without a folding saw or a bow saw. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and may God bless you too
Council Tool makes excellent products. I’ve been in that plant and watched their forges hammer out axes, hammers, and other tools. Great quality products, made in Lake Waccamaw, NC. A family owned business. Great people at that plant when I visited. Thank you for this video. I think it will help a lot of people in deciding what to take to the woods.
Very cool to hear they are a family business! I didn't know that. I have their boys axe and hatchet. Both are excellent. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching my friend
Hi Dave, As you said several times, you’d usually use a camp-knife for finer tasks. A better comparison are the things that you’d use an axe or machete to accomplish; preparing firewood, cutting larger branches for a shelter, gathering grass for bedding, vines for cordage, etc. Of course each is better for certain jobs, like a spoon vs. a fork. The machete seemed to win on the 10” log test to me, one handed vs. two handed. You seemed a little more winded after the axe and didn’t really cut much more. From your testing I’d choose a good machete with a saw-back over the axe; lighter, better for vines & grass gathering, still able to cut larger wood. Once you get where you’re going the weight no longer matters so if you can pack it in it would be nice to have both.
Ay-Oh Nick, You should probably get a full-face shield for chopping/cutting camera work with Dave. Being a camera-guy can be hazardous.
Another entertaining video. Can’t wait for the next one.
Hello Frank and good points you brought up! The best one was carry the weight because once you're at your location weight will no longer matter. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
For most small to medium cutting/chopping I personally prefer the SP53, Kershaw Camp 10 or the Terava Skrama. The Terava Skrama also excels over the rest for carving, feather sticks etc. Plus these 3 can split wood using a baton. One tool to cover the most bases for me is the Terava Skrama. These to me also seem safer than a hatchet or axe which I also have and use. Just my thoughts. Another great video. Just wish you would have used the SP53 for one of the tests. It’s still “the beast.”
Sounds good to me Tom! I love my SP53 and Skrama. For some unknown reason I've never owned any Kershaw blade. I left the SP53 out because I wasn't trying very hard to match up certain weights, lengths and capabilities. I show do a "my favorite machete showdown" thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
Yeah that Scrama is tasty alright 👍
Can second that my Scrama is one of my most used camp tools. It’s very versatile, if not a little more difficult for me to sharpen than a smaller knife.
@@nandayane For machetes and large blades like the Skrama I use the GATCO sharpening system. Other sharpening systems like that should work equally well.
this has poignant importance! have been thinking this very subject lately. I have resolved to carry a heavy machete, like the Kershaw camp 14 or the Kershaw Camp 10. Mostly for weight, and the utility I can get from it.
Good video as usual, Dave!
Thanks!
And a lot of it boils down to mode of travel, by foot, by boat, by sled or ATV. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching Tony!
Great video! Thanks for getting them out to us!!
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it!
I think the machete is an overall win for it's versatility, capabilities, and weight when it comes to wilderness survival or camp; but the axe is a tool that can be used to get the same tasks done (albeit sloppy), but will be a lot less likely to fail you over a longer time of use (especially with chopping involved.) I think if it came down to chopping and I was in a long-term survival situation I would not want to chop much with a machete in fear of losing the tool through long-term damage; but I would not fear losing an axe from damage over the long-term when using it for chopping. Worst case scenario would be a broken edge corner or huge chip out of a hard axe head. If you're lucky you wouldn't need to do a lot of chopping of wood to survive, but if you're somewhere that winter is a factor, you're probably going to want an axe or saw instead of a machete to stock pile wood for winter survival. I think you should always carry a 2.75" knife or larger for most cutting tasks that don't involve mass fire wood processing. So I guess if I was someplace 'tropical' without winter I'd choose a machete, but if there is winter involved I'd go with an axe for sure over a machete.
Very good comments Brad!
Hmmm?! Axe vs machete?! For me, neither... For me, it's my bowie knife from Schrade. I've used axes. I've used machetes. I have used my Schrade bowie knife. For me personally, it's definitely my bowie knife! But if chopping an _extra tough_ log, I will go to the axe for that.
An axe is an essential survival item. You can literally build a house with just an axe. It's a great weapon too.
If you are comfortable with the bowie, then that's your tool.
For me it's a toss up between a hatchet and the skrama, but always in combination with a small blade and saw.
@@alexandergutfeldt1144 In a survival situation an axe is superior and this is not open for debate. An axe is basically a rugged block of steel with a sharp edge at one end and will last forever. A bowie knife wouldn't last a single month of heavy use if this is your only tool survival tool. It's not even debatable. An axe is also an amazing weapon if you know how to use it.
@@alexandergutfeldt1144 Yes, I definitely gotta have my small knife and folding saw with that bigger knife.
Sounds good to me! I used a large Bowie a few times in the years past
Great comparison between the various knives n axes. I'm glad the last axe won tbh. It looks a great axe.
I can't decide whether to get an axe or machete. I end up talking myself in and out of buying one. I end up using my Plumb hatchet for splitting, love that hatchet. It only cost £6 from a used tool stall. Bargain.
Thanks for your time mate, it's appreciated. Stay groovy ✌️
Thanks Warren, I'm glad you liked it. Machetes excel at what they do, axes excel at what they do but hatchets can pretty much do it all!
Brother Dave lots to be said about this video. No need to list them all here and now lol. I will say this was yet ANOTHER fun and interesting video to watch. Keep up the good work bro. Hey Nick on the camera! God bless y'all buddy. Thumbs up video 👍🏻 for sure~John
Thanks brother, we are glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and may God bless you too John!
I’m in England and even though a machete is amazing I feel like a axe would be most useful but if can I’d like both
Agreed !
Yep.. 😁.. if it’s not going to be a loooong hike in trip, I’ll try to have both.. and there’s always a saw somewhere, either a folding silky on up to a bow saw.. but I don’t carry a bow saw on hiking trip.. lol
If you don't mind the weight both would be great!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Hi Dave! 😁.. yeah.. I try to keep the weight as low as possible.. but sometimes if he’s coming along, I can have the big man critter carry a few extra things for me 😜 ..he loves swinging the axe anyway.. & One place I go on private land has an old overgrown farm road into the woods, so the modified baby jogger helps get some stuff most of the way there..it was great to have after surgery last year and couldn’t carry much at all.. I’d told you I was going to post a video about it, and I will once I’m done messing with it 😬lol
@@ruththinkingoutside.707 be sure and send me the link to that when ever you film it
I had always been an ax man but you've opened my eyes to the more multiple uses of a machete. In the end I think a lot of it comes down to what do you have the most experience with.
AGREED: knowing how to use the tool and understanding how it will react to various materials and tasks makes a lot of the running. We saw that today with the 'failures' on the pot hanger and tent peg challenges.
Fantastic to hear that Jim! Thanks for the input and thanks for watching brother
Hey Dave n Nick
Another outstanding experience watching Yous video. The axe versus
Machete.
Had a True Temper Jungle Machete,
Thin blade but it was a charmer for cutting a bedding area in the blackberry bush's...never did a fire.
Thanks again
Deus Vult 😎
Hello Dale and we are glad you liked it. A True Temper machete? I never knew they made them. Pretty cool. Take care and thanks for watching
Great to see you guys again! Appreciate the comparisons, does seem to come down to where you are and what you will be doing. If had one choice would go with stainless steel machete. Thank you for showing off that beautiful rivers machete again, work of art!
Always great to hear from you and we are glad you liked it! I love a stainless steel machete when I'm on the river or in the wetlands. Take care and thanks for watching
I like to go the middle of the road Condor big leaf blade machete I think it's a brung style so it's a wide thick blade that can be used for multiple purposes in a pinch. It chops good it slices good it stabs good just a great all-around machete 1095 carbon steel decent leather sheath a reasonable cost for all what you get I think I don't know about the cost now I got mine when it was reasonable to me but I don't even know if they still have them I think they were a limited run for Matt Graham.
Sounds good to me! Condor is pretty bad about running a good design then doing away with production even when it's popular. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
@@Reallybigmonkey1 thanks for posting edutaining content
It's been a while since I've seen you. For some reason they don't recommend your videos to me. Axe any day for me.
TH-cam rarely ever promotes my stuff, I'm usually on my on depending on loyal viewers. Thanks for watching my friend
Great video again Dave Thank you! 👍😁
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it
You never cease to amaze me that tactical tool is A BEAST of tool .
I agree!
I can imagine Mors Kochanski seeing Dave’s gear room and saying, “Son, what’s going on here?
I enjoy the gear videos.
With all the gear you have at hand a video where you pick a random location and then have 20 minutes to pack everything you need for a week would be very cool.
Maybe a competition between you and Nick if he has the time.
Mors - British Columbia
Dave - Appalachia
A bit of a difference re: bushcraft needs.
@@usernamemykel My point was it a large amount of a wide variety of gear and Mors had a notoriously simple approach to his craft.
Relax man.
Now that's a cool idea!
Also, my son, brother, dad and myself all outfit out of this one gear room. I'm the only one that makes videos in the family.
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Could you imagine if they made videos and you added more of that stuff to keep up with?
You're totally right Dave, it depends on an individual's needs. I like an axe, but personally find a big blade more useful, in my case a billhook rather than machete. Thanks again Dave and take care 👍🙂
Thanks Mike, I havent used a Billhook much but those that do say they love them. I may try one someday. Thanks for watching
Yeah, it all depends on your "mission" and how much wood do you really need to be processing. Are we laying up firewood for several nights? Are we building a large log cabin structure?
The reality is, unless I'm out in a Northern winter and don't have a proper sleeping bag with me, I don't ever really "NEED" an axe or even hatchet. Most wood I could ever use would be easily collected squaw wood.
Most folks on foot (in North America) back in the day had a knife and small tomahawk. When you're also carrying a large rifle and ammo, your tools eek to the smaller side of things.
Dave! I finally did it! I just ordered my Condor bushcraft parang! Woohoo! Thanks again for the inspiration and knowledge, brother! I can't wait to get it in my hands and head out back! 👍👍👍
Fantastic to hear that Shawn! Let me know how it goes after you've used it awhile
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Will do! I can't wait!
Hey, Dave. I hate to bother you again, but I have a question. I remember you talking about using a cratex stick to use on convex grinds in one of your videos. What grit do you use? I noticed they come in coarse, medium, fine and extra fine. Obviously, it would be ideal to have all of them, but I was just wondering if there was a certain one you go to most.
@@shawnmaginness9872 I usually carry a medium, it does it all
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Excellent! Thanks a lot, brother! 👍👍
Thank you! You always manage to make interesting videos!
Thanks Pedro! I'm glad you like the videos
Good video, again. Hatchets are nice tools, but I think they're also the most hazardous of the axe, machete, big knife, or parang. The relatively heavy head and length of handle make an arc that seems just right for a mis-hit to ricochet into you. Hatchets are the least forgiving of mistakes.
Thanks Duke, I'm glad you liked it. I agree 100% , hatchets are definitely the most dangerous of them all. Thanks for watching my friend
True. Always kneel when splitting with a hatchet, if you miss it goes in the ground instead of your leg
Dave , I never heard the term axe "mask" before . Learning new stuff is cool !
What is your opinion on synthetic hafts ( handle) ? I have a Gerber axe and a Gerber hatchet . I selected them because of their ability to stow away in a high humidity and extreme temp swings .
Love that poly mask you made -- residence to moisture , unlike leather .
Great content as always !!!
👍👍👍👍👍
Synthetic handles on axes and hatchets are very popular but I don't like them. What few I've used they tend to vibrate up through the handle too much. If it doesn't bother you then I'd keep using it. I've heard those handles are almost impossible to break. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching Mikel
I agree with Dave. I'm a wood handle girl - the synthetic handles have to much vibration. Just my thoughts. ✌
Good video. We still don't know what to choose. So bring it all and the saw. God bless. From Glenn CATT in Massachusetts.
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. Bring a saw, knife and your choice of chopping tool and you're good to go. Thanks for watching and may God bless you too Glenn
Thanks for the education on all the various machete and axe types! Very cool info to learn!
For accuracy using the axe to make the pot hook, maybe placing the axe blade on the target position and raising both axe and stick, then chopping. That would help keep the cut where it needed to be. Kinda' hard to hit twice in the exact same place when chopping.
Thanks Randy, I'm glad you liked it. Very good idea on on to make that pot hanger! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
Age old question! Further north you go, more likely I’d say an axe… cold weather camping will test the limits of any soft steel… plus it’s far easier to hew with an axe. Nothing longer than pit to tip for camping for me.
Sounds like the general consensus! Thanks for watching my friend
I can get more use out of an axe. I do love machetes. I actually prefer the spetzna shovel over the machete. 🐸🍺🔪🔥
I've seen those shovels but haven't got a chance to use one yet. Take care and thanks for watching Johnny
Can't believe how entertaining you are in every video I have watched. I am very new to your page but have probably watch more than 20 videos in the last 10 days. Only 14 more years of videos to go? I thought the axes had a slight edge.😅.
Thank you George! I'm glad you're liking the videos
this guy is amazing i love the dyi stuff hes done. VERY GOOD JOB! i am impressed with your beautiful collection of axes , knives and machetes. VERY THOUROUGH. the homshu is effen amazing
Thank you Allie! I absolutely love axes and machetes
Great axe collection. Nice to see some of those older and rare axes. I've always found that here in the UK (and there are some other UK comments already): carrying an axe if you're clearly in the woods or camping is somehow seen as more acceptable, but carrying machetes out in the woods - is still seen as being unacceptable - like walking into a wedding with a Mora on your belt. UK life laws are strange.
Yup, I have taken my machete to the woods a couple of times but I had a habit of sheathing it when dog walkers or family groups came through so as not to look like a guy out in the woods with what amounts to a sword in his hands. Maybe I'm being paranoid and people don't care but I'd sooner be waving a silky saw than a machete in public.
Thanks Joel, I'm glad you liked it. You have a very good point. Down south in the USA there's no laws on stuff like this so we can carry pretty much anything we want to. In some areas you have to follow local laws and regulations. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
@@Reallybigmonkey1 @Reallybigmonkey1 Thank you and Nick for the cool videos. I lived in Oklahoma for a while when I was in my early twenties, right next to the border to Arkansas and between exploring the country, I'd hitch rides. When I wasn't told I'd have to ride in the bed at the back of the truck, I'd often climb in and find a shotgun next to some fishing rods and a chainsaw. I still have a knife my ex got me in Mena, AK one Christmas. The South is a great place. I'd head back there in a second if I had the chance. Thanks for the reply and all the great experience and advice - plus a few good laughs - in your videos.
@@ASBO_LUTELY I understand all the inner-city knife-crime issues, but someone out in the dales with an Alice pack and olive drab with a compass round their neck, probably isn't looking for trouble.
I've actually known people in past years who would have been offended if you showed for their wedding, sans belt knife or small axe...
Ordonairy axe for me
Sounds good to me
What the nessmuck double bit Saddle axe, council tools are excellent axes but lots of people love grandfors bruk axes,I enjoy a tomahawk for carting around in the woods,love my Ka bar kukri too We all know that you enjoy your kukri's too hence all your videos on the subject as for a machete old reliable tramontina and I have since paird my machete with a mora companion HD agreat little knife. Love your videos Dave they are always so informative and I Always always take some little tid-bit of trivia or tool knowledge away from your videos.thanks for sharing.
I do love kukris but also parangs. Sometimes I have trouble choosing which to carry! Im glad you like the videos Anthony, Thanks for watching
All my machetes have been purchased based on your recommendations from watching over the years. Still want to pick up a “good” axe. I have a couple of Cold Steel axes but I’d love to have a better quality one. My son made me a kydex mask for my bigger axe. Friction fit with a strap and buckle that works great. That pouch you used for the Green Beret’s axe looks like a triple magazine pouch. Makes a great mount like you set it up. I have a similar pouch and will see if I can duplicate your use of it. Will be using the Tramontina tomorrow helping my brother get ready for deer season. Thanks for another great video. You and Nick stay safe!
Fantastic to hear you based your machete choices off mine! I never got around to trying a Cold steel axe but I know they are popular. I'm pretty happy with the little Marbles and my Council tool axe. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching brother
@@Reallybigmonkey1 I’ve got to put a lanyard on the Tramontina. Lack of one like to got me today. Keep on stressing the need of them to everyone!
Great Show.
Condor is branded as Awesome between Friends an I.
If moving through thick Bush in numbers, The Dude with the Axe is holding the Pig.
Brilliant stuff Thanks Monkey1.
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. Condor is a good brand for sure. Thanks for watching Jono
I mated my Condor Village Parang with a Mini Hudson Bay knife. With the hammered steel texture on both, they just looked like they needed to me married. And together will fulfill many bush crafting roles. My Pocket Boy goes with my Ironpath. ChanceinHell mated to Mora 711 and a large bayite ferro rod. But the beauty of the Velcro/paracord attachment method is anything can be mated with anything. Thanks, Dave, for making me a fanatic. I have over 40 knives, yet only 7 machetes. Some call this an obsession. I call it a good start.
Sounds good to me Steve! You have definitely realized the beauty of velcro on a machete sheath, bring the knife you want for the trip. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
Very,very interesting and informative,as all your videos.
Thanks Mark, I'm glad you liked it and the others!
There are a lot of tools that can be used for more than one task. Great video for sure. Take care
Very good point Tressa and thanks for watching!
Hey there! Hope you have a great weekend. I have a slater's hammer / tool I use. It has a flat hammer on one side, a small hatchet on the other, a crow bar on the top. It's not built for large amounts of work but it's handy.
Sounds like a good tool!
great stuff as always , thank you Sir :) I think you would like a English billhook also called a handbill, the french also made good ones. I really nice woodworking tool made for hedge laying but can be used for just about anything wood related. They have been used for centuries.
Thanks for the info Darren, I'll have to look into that.
I really like the Kukri for our neck of the woods. Nice thick chopper. Good choice for the one tool option.
Oh I agree! I love a properly ground kukri!
I really enjoy your videos Dave, you and Nick are so chilled... 👌
I strongly believe you just have to pick the right tool for the job:
Felling reasonable sized trees? Axe or saw.
Splitting or chopping larger hard woody stuff? Axe every time.
Thinning out bushy viney more flexible stuff? Machete is the way to go.
Carving or fine work? Grab a knife or even a small saw.
Even given all that, you might still want different variations of the same type of tool.
Ultimately though, you can only use what you have, so learning how to use that for different tasks will make you more adaptable, and you'll still be able to get the jobs done.
I'm glad you like the videos Doug and fantastic points you made! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching