Gear
Axe
A heavy tool that often is not needed on a trip. But useful on trips where you rely on a campfire and have to split wood.
Axes are heavy trail tools that you often do not need. A trail axe can still be useful on trips where you rely heavily on a campfire — then it is handy to be able to split the wood.
A suitable trail axe should not be too large — it has to be possible to pack it — but at the same time be heavy enough and have a long enough handle to generate momentum. Small light axes with a short handle make it easier to injure yourself, and are less well suited.
A suitable trail axe is no longer than the day-trip pack, but long enough to be useful. The axe head should have enough weight to split wood easily.
A dangerous tool
As with all sharp tools: use the axe turned away from people. Never swing an axe towards other people — the axe head can come loose from the handle and hit someone.
The axe should not be far too sharp. If you cut your foot with a sharp axe, the disaster is complete. With a blunt axe you might get away with a bruise.
Next steps
- Trail tools — together with other tools
- Knife — other traditional tools
- Find wood and a suitable fire site — practical use
- Campfire — the hub for campfires
Learn more
- DNT — equipment — recommendations and courses
- Friluftsmagasinet Fri Flyt — tests and specialist material
- Klepp & Tobiasson — Lettkledd — sustainable thinking about equipment