MIL-DOT
member
I've had kind of an on-again/off again itch to get a decent hatchet. I'm looking to keep this as economical as possible, so something really high-end like a Gransfors Bruks is out of the question ( but recommendations for other economical,good quality hatchtes is appreciated.)
I already have a small,inexpensive one-piece hatchet that I got on close-out from CDNN years ago, and it's been ok for kindling, but seems to be very soft metal.
I can get either the Estwing or the Fiskars for about $27,delivered. Both come pretty highly recommended, but both have enough concerns raised that I thought some further research was in order.
Most folks seem to say that the Fiskars just rips through wood, but a few have had problems with the plastic handle where it wraps around the head.
Apparantly, some folks have had issues with wood jamming into/under the plastic,even though there's a little ramp in the head that's supposed to steer wood away.
The Estwings seem to be much more sloppily made than they once were, and I've read that the leather handle can practically fall apart from moisture exposure. Sure, I could rip it off and wrap it with paracord or hockey tape, but I don't want to buy a product if I know that's gonna be the plan.
It seems they'd make these with their trademark blue rubber handle, but I haven't seen any,except on the full sized axes.
Anyway, you get the idea, any input is appreciated.......
I already have a small,inexpensive one-piece hatchet that I got on close-out from CDNN years ago, and it's been ok for kindling, but seems to be very soft metal.
I can get either the Estwing or the Fiskars for about $27,delivered. Both come pretty highly recommended, but both have enough concerns raised that I thought some further research was in order.
Most folks seem to say that the Fiskars just rips through wood, but a few have had problems with the plastic handle where it wraps around the head.
Apparantly, some folks have had issues with wood jamming into/under the plastic,even though there's a little ramp in the head that's supposed to steer wood away.
The Estwings seem to be much more sloppily made than they once were, and I've read that the leather handle can practically fall apart from moisture exposure. Sure, I could rip it off and wrap it with paracord or hockey tape, but I don't want to buy a product if I know that's gonna be the plan.
It seems they'd make these with their trademark blue rubber handle, but I haven't seen any,except on the full sized axes.
Anyway, you get the idea, any input is appreciated.......