Although a carpenters hatchet is not the first tool that comes to mind for many homeowners, this underrated tool can be incredibly useful for various tasks. In addition, a good hatchet can be a real life-saver in situations where you don't have access to other tools. Here are six reasons why every carpenter should have a hatchet on hand.
1. A hatchet is perfect for small, precision cuts.
When you need to make a precise and measured cut, a hatchet is a perfect tool for the job. Its slim design makes it easy to control, so you can get the exact results you're looking for.
2. A hatchet is great for rough-hewing tasks.
If you need to reduce a piece of wood to size quickly, a hatchet is your best bet. Its heavy blade makes quick work of even the thickest pieces of lumber, so you can save time and energy when tackling big projects.
3. A hatchet is perfect for quickly carving out notches and joints.
Notches and joints are essential for any carpentry project, and a hatchet is a perfect tool for carving them out quickly and easily. With just a few quick strokes, you can have the notch or joint you need to get your project moving.
4. A hatchet is great for splitting wood.
If you need to split wood for a fire or a campfire, a hatchet is a perfect tool for the job. Its heavy blade makes it easy to drive into the wood, and its sharp edge makes quick work of splitting even the thickest logs.
5. A hatchet is great for removing branches and limbs.
When you're clearing land for a construction project or just getting ready for winter, a hatchet is a perfect tool for removing stubborn branches and limbs from trees. Its heavy blade makes it easy to drive through tough bark so that you can get to the branch or limb underneath.
6. A hatchet is a great all-purpose tool that every carpenter should keep on hand.
A hatchet is an essential part of any carpenter's collection of tools, and its many uses make it an invaluable addition to your workshop. If you're a contractor who needs a tool for tight spaces or one that can handle rough cuts, a hatchet is a perfect choice. This versatile multi-tasker will quickly become your go-to when you need to get work done efficiently and effectively.
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As an avid carpenter, I have found that the best carpenter hatchet is one that fulfills multiple requirements. Therefore, when buying a carpenter hatchet, you should look for the following features:
A high-carbon steel blade with sharp edges:
The first and foremost requirement for a carpenter hatchet is a high carbon steel blade. This means two things; firstly, the blade will be made from one of the strongest steels available to man, which means that you can cut through nails or any other similar materials without causing damage to the blade. Secondly, the high carbon content in this type of metal means that it will remain strong even after being used repeatedly. It also ensures that your tool doesn't bend over time as a lower carbon content allows.
Although having a sharp edge is undoubtedly an effective way to ensure maximum productivity at work, this feature alone isn't enough reason to buy a particular item. After all, you can always sharpen the blade of your Hatchet if it dulls. However, a blade with a sharp edge is more likely to stay sharp for longer when put under duress. Furthermore, an angled blade makes it easier to chop into materials as it provides more clearance than a straight-edged blade. This is especially beneficial when striking a nail as it minimizes the risk of the Hatchet slipping off and potentially causing injury.
The ability to be used both left and right-handed:
The second most important feature that I look for in a carpenter hatchet is being both left and right-handed. This may seem like a minor detail, but it has far-reaching consequences. The main reason why this is an essential feature for a carpenter hatchet is that right-handed people are in the minority. Only about 10% of the global population is left-handed, which means that 90% of your customers will use a left-handed tool. Therefore having a vice versa model would be a waste as it wouldn't serve its intended purpose, and you may sell fewer tools as a consequence.
As well as being beneficial from a commercial perspective, it has several benefits for users on a personal level. Since most items are designed to be used with either hand, you won't have any difficulty switching between models if you need multiple one-handed tools to perform different tasks simultaneously. Furthermore, being ambidextrous means no risk of injury if you accidentally lose your footing and fall.
In addition, having a vice versa tool is confusing for beginners, but it can also be perilous. I have personally witnessed people get injured due to being handed the wrong tool while under pressure. Even using a vice versa model in an emergency would be problematic as you may forget which was or have difficulty remembering how each one works under stress.
A hickory handle:
The third most important feature to consider when looking for a carpenter hatchet has a hickory handle. Hickory is the premier wood choice for tools for two key reasons. Firstly, this type of wood has a high tensile strength, which is resistant to breaking or snapping. Secondly, it has high moisture resistance, preventing the handle from warping over time. This combination of properties makes hickory an ideal material choice for carpenter hatchets as it ensures that the tool can withstand heavy use without any issues.
In addition, a hickory handle also provides excellent grip and feel in your hand. This is important as you don't want the tool to slip out of your grasp while using it. Furthermore, a good grip will help reduce the amount of fatigue you experience after using the Hatchet for an extended period.
Weight between 1-2 pounds:
The fourth feature that I would recommend when purchasing a carpenter hatchet is that it weighs 1-2 pounds. This weight range is perfect for carpenter hatchets as it provides the user with enough power to get the job done while remaining portable. In addition, a lighter weight hatchet is less tiring to use over an extended period.
If you are looking for a heavier hatchet, I recommend looking at other tools such as axes or mauls, as they are better suited for more force tasks. Similarly, if you need a smaller and more portable tool, then I would suggest looking at hatchets that weigh in at below 1 pound.
A chromed blade:
The fifth feature that I would recommend looking for when purchasing a carpenter hatchet is that it has a chromed blade. A chromed blade is vital as it helps to protect the tool against rust and corrosion. In addition, it also makes the blade easier to clean and keeps it looking sharp for longer.
A sheath:
The sixth feature that I would recommend looking for when purchasing a carpenter hatchet is a sheath. A sheath is essential as it helps to protect both the user and the Hatchet from accidental injuries. In addition, it also keeps the Hatchet in good condition when not in use.
A size of between 10-14 inches:
The seventh feature that I would recommend looking for when purchasing a carpenter hatchet is that it is between 10-14 inches. A smaller hatchet will make it suitable for detailed work but may not be powerful enough to get the job done in certain situations. Similarly, a larger hatchet is more powerful but less precise and may not perform tasks that require great accuracy.
Therefore, I would recommend choosing one that fits within the optimum size range to get the most value for money possible.
A price range of $30 - $60:
The ninth feature that I would recommend when purchasing a carpenter hatchet is that it falls within the price range of $30 to $60. This price range provides the user with several options at reasonable cost to performance ratios, making them suitable for people on any budget. This price bracket also provides the user with enough versatility to purchase additional tools without having too much overlap in capabilities.
The best carpenter hatchets are available online between these two prices and can be found in Walmart or Home Depot stores. However, there are often sales on specific brands or models, making it possible to get an even better deal if you look enough. Furthermore, you can also find lower or higher-end models depending on your needs and budget.
If you follow these ten tips when purchasing a carpenter hatchet, you are sure to find the best tool for the job. Remember to consider your needs and budget when making your purchase, and you are sure to be happy with the results.
Best Rated Carpenter Hatchets: An Overview
Choosing the best carpenter hatchet for your needs can be a daunting task. With so many varieties available in today's market, it's important to consider each model's various features and attributes carefully. To make your shopping experience easier, I have compiled a list of the top-rated carpenter hatchets, with an overview of each model's strengths and weaknesses.
1. Estwing E32H Carpenters Hatchet
Looking for a solid, durable hatchet that will help you take on any carpentry project? Look no further than Estwing's E32H Carpenters Hatchet.
With its Shock Reduction Grip, this Hatchet offers superior comfort and reduced vibrations, making it perfect for any job. In addition, the forged one-piece construction ensures unbeatable quality and durability. So pick up an Estwing E32H Carpenters Hatchet today!
It's made in the USA with American tool steel, so you can be sure it's of the highest quality. Don't miss out on this must-have tool for any carpenter!
Pros
- Durable tools that last for years.
- Versatile can be used on all types of jobs.
- Feel more confident on the job with these high-quality tools.
- Proudly crafted in the USA with American steel.
Cons
- The Hatchet can be dangerous if not used correctly.
2. Bon Vaughan 205-20 Sh2 Carpenters Half Hatchet
Looking for a reliable and durable carpenters hatchet? Look no further than the Bon Vaughan 205-20 Sh2 Carpenters Half Hatchet!
Bon Vaughan's 205-20 Sh2 Carpenters Half Hatchet is the perfect tool for construction tradespeople and handypersons alike! At just 22 ounces, this full polished hatchet head features a 3.5-inch cut and hickory handle. So whether you're chopping wood or building something new, Bon Vaughan's Carpenters Half Hatchet is sure to get the job done!
This Hatchet is perfect for all your carpentering needs, and its robust construction ensures that it will last for years. So don't go into your next carpentry project without the Bon Vaughan 205-20 Sh2 Carpenters Half Hatchet!
Pros
- Durable, reliable construction
- 3.5-inch cut
- Hickory handle
- Easy to use for any job
- You won't have to worry about the blade chipping or breaking, as it has a sturdy construction.
Cons
- The blade is also quite sharp, so be careful when using it, especially if you are not used to handling hatchets.
3. LEXIVON V14 Camping Hatchet
Looking for a camping hatchet that can stand up to the rigors of the modern world? Look no further than the LEXIVON V14. This tough little Hatchet is engineered with a lightweight, Hi-tech fiberglass haft and Handle-to-Head weight distribution that ensures every swing is powerful and precise.
The meticulously designed over-molded blade provides superior durability and strikes power – perfect for any camping trip. So don't go into the great outdoors without your LEXIVON V14 Camping Hatchet!
Featuring a forged, grade-A carbon steel blade that's been heat-treated for extra durability, this axe is built to last. The over-molded handle ensures a safe and comfortable grip, while the deep and clean cuts it produces make quick work of any chopping task. So whether you're clearing brush on your camping trip or preparing dinner by the campfire, the LEXIVON V14 is the perfect tool for the job. Order yours today!
Pros
- Durable and lightweight
- Versatile for many purposes
- You'll feel like a pro when you're chopping wood with the LEXIVON V14!
- You'll have a high-quality axe with an imperial fiberglass handle.
- The geometrically designed blade is lightweight and perfect for chopping firewood.
- Your LEXIVON V14 will last you through tough conditions, so you can focus on your work instead of worrying about the safety of your tool.
Cons
- It's made of steel prone to rust if not taken care of properly.
4. Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet
The Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet is the perfect tool for chopping kindling and small- to medium-sized logs. The blade is sharper than ever, making it easy to make clean cuts.
The Hatchet has a perfected balance and power-to-weight ratio that increases swing speed to multiply power, much like an aluminum baseball bat. In addition, the low-friction blade coating powers through wood and prevents the head from getting stuck.
With the 1002 X7 Hatchet from Fiskars, chopped wood will no longer be a challenge. This bad boy is designed with power and precision in mind, so you can get more done faster - perfect for those weekend camping trips or even just general yard maintenance. And if things get a little too rough, the lifetime warranty will make sure you're always covered. So why wait? Pick up a Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet today!
Pros
- The X7 Hatchet is extremely durable, so it will last you for years to come.
- It's lightweight for easy carrying.
- You'll never have to worry about your axe breaking again.
- Your life will be a lot easier when you're chopping wood with the X7 Hatchet.
- It can chop through logs and kindling quickly and efficiently.
- Feel the power of every swing.
Cons
- The handle is short and doesn't fit larger hands very well.
5. CRKT Woods Tomahawk Axe
Looking for an all-purpose axe that can handle just about anything? Look no further than the CRKT Woods Tomahawk Axe. This Hatchet is perfect for the outdoorsman who wants a durable and reliable axe.
Due to its 1055 Carbon steel construction, this axe can take a beating and still come out swinging. The Tennessee hickory wood handle is tough yet lightweight, making it easy to control.
The ax head's beard tackles many useful cutting tasks, making this an excellent choice for any outdoor enthusiast.
Designed by Ryan Johnson of RMJ Tactical in Chattanooga, Tennessee, this axe comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty that covers any defects in materials or workmanship. In addition, you can rest assured that this axe is built to last. So what are you waiting for? Pick up a CRKT Woods Tomahawk Axe today!
Pros
- For chopping and more, this lightweight, durable axe is perfect.
- The beard on the head of the axe is perfect for all sorts of tasks.
- You can take it with you anywhere, from camping to a zombie apocalypse.
- The axe head will last a lifetime.
- You'll be able to tackle many cutting tasks with one tool.
Cons
- The blade also is tough to sharpen due to carbon steel construction.
6. GEDORE 1591657 OX 235 E-0802 Forestry Hatchet
Looking for a handy tool to help you with woodworking and gardening projects? Look no further than the GEDORE 1591657 OX 235 E-0802 Forestry Hatchet!
The cutting edge is finely polished, and the axe weight is 1100g. It is made with the finest steel and has the best cut, forged to the best quality in Remscheid, Germany.
This high-quality Hatchet is made with attention to detail, from the finest steel material to modern production methods. It features a polished cutting edge and a comfortable, ergonomic handle for easy use. Whether you're a professional craftsman or just starting in DIY, this Hatchet is an indispensable tool that will make your projects more effortless than ever.
It also comes with a spare handle, making it easy to keep your tool in excellent condition. So order your GEDORE forestry hatchet today!
Pros
- This Hatchet is the best deal on the market.
- Durable and reliable.
- Your gardening will be easier than ever before.
- It is made of high-quality steel, with an ash handle.
- Impeccable attention to detail.
Cons
- The Hatchet is large and heavy.
7. BRUFER 203651-3 Hatchet Axe
Looking for a trusty hatchet axe that can handle everything from weekend camping trips to DIY home projects? Look no further than the BRUFER 203651-3 Hatchet Axe!
This top-quality tool is made with a drop-forged carbon steel head attached to a hickory shaft using wood and steel wedges to secure fastening.
At 600 grams or 21 ounces, the head is heavy enough to do some serious chopping, while the total length of 14-1/2" and a blade length of 4" makes it perfect for smaller tasks too. So whether you're an experienced outdoorsman or just starting, the BRUFER Hatchet Axe is the ideal choice for all your hacking needs.
With the BRUFER 203651-3 Hatchet Axe, you'll be able to take on all sorts of camping and outdoor projects. This super-sharp Hatchet is perfect for chopping wood and other materials, making it an essential tool for any camper. So don't go camping without your BRUFER 203651-3 Hatchet Axe!
Pros
- Handmade in the USA.
- Get back to your roots and chop wood as your ancestors did!
- Throw axes at targets or just for fun!
- Durable and robust with a sharp blade.
- Handles are long enough for two hands.
- You'll feel like an axe ninja in no time!
Cons
- The blade is not very sharp and needs to be sharpened often.
8. Husqvarna Wooden Handle Hatchet
Looking for a lightweight hatchet that's perfect for light woodcutting? The Husqvarna Wooden Handle Hatchet is just what you need.
Husqvarna's Wooden Handle Hatchet is designed for one-handed use on light wood cutting. The axe head is premium 1.32 lbs. and hand-forged with Swedish steel, making it a durable and reliable tool.
The Hatchet also comes with a leather edge cover to protect the blade when not in use. It's made in Sweden and features Proposition 65 labeling for California customers.
Pros
- It makes light work of chopping logs and branches.
- It is made of Swedish steel, and this axe head is high-quality and durable.
- It's lightweight and easy to use.
- A leather edge cover is included.
- The blade is sharp and can cut through wood effortlessly.
- You'll feel like a lumberjack with this axe in your hand.
Cons
- The blade can chip and break relatively easily if not used properly.
9. Hults Bruk Almike Small All Purpose Hatchet
Have you been looking for a versatile and handy hatchet that can handle just about any job? Then check out the Hults Bruk Almike Small All Purpose Hatchet!
The Hults Bruk Almike is the perfect sized Hatchet for camping, cutting small firewood, and fine carving. A lifelong all-purpose tool for the garden, camp, or wilderness survival, it's perfect for any number of backcountry jobs.
Its classic turpentine pattern axe head is ideal for making kindling, doing light clearing, and a variety of other backcountry jobs. Plus, its 16" handle makes it comfortable to use for extended periods.
The axe also comes with a belt clip for easy carrying, and at just one pound in weight, it's easy to take with you wherever you go.
Pros
- It is a durable, lifetime, all-purpose tool.
- It is lightweight and easy to carry.
- Handmade in Sweden by craftsmen.
- The handle length is perfect for most people's height.
- You'll never have to rebuy another axe.
- Become a master woodsman with this timeless tool
Cons
- It's a small hatchet. This is not the right tool if you're looking for something to chop down a tree.
10. SOG Tactical Tomahawk Throwing Hatchet
The SOG Tactical Tomahawk Throwing Hatchet is perfect for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable tool. Featuring a lightweight yet durable design, the Tomahawk is an essential tool for any adventurer.
With its robust build, the SOG Tactical Tomahawk Throwing Hatchet is perfect for various uses. Use it at home, in camp, and on the trail – it even makes an excellent breaching axe, camping axe, and backpacking axe! And with its versatile ballistic nylon carry sheath, you can always have it close at hand.
It offers a superior grip and balance for accurate throws, making it the ideal tool for any outdoorsman. With its sharp edge and compact size, the SOG Tactical Tomahawk Throwing Hatchet is also great for everyday use.
Pros
- The handle is extended for more leverage.
- Cut down your chopping time by two-thirds!
- Durable and powerful for a variety of tasks.
- Easy to maintain with its black finish.
- Great for chopping and prying
- You'll be able to handle anything life throws at you.
- Blade resists corrosion and is easy to sharpen.
- Feel like an action hero when you swing this thing around.
Cons
- It may not be the best choice for beginners who are new to using tomahawks.
What Is a Carpenter Hatchet?
A carpenter hatchet is a small, lightweight hatchet that is designed for use by carpenters. It has a sharp, narrow edge on one side of the blade that can be used for cutting and slicing and a blunt edge on the other side that can be used for pounding nails.
The carpenter hatchet is different from other hatchets in that it has a very thin blade. This makes it less suitable for chopping wood but more suitable for finer tasks such as slicing and trimming. The carpenter hatchet is also smaller and lighter than most other hatchets, making it easier to handle.
How does a Carpenter Hatchet work?
To use a carpenter hatchet correctly, it's important to know how it works. The carpenter hatchet is composed of a head, blade, and handle. The head is made from durable, hardened steel, designed to withstand repeated strikes' high impact. The blade is sharpened to create clean cuts and is curved to help direct the force of the blow. The handle is typically made of sturdy hardwood, such as hickory, and is designed to provide a secure grip for maximum control and precision.
How to Use a Carpenter Hatchet like A Pro!
A carpenter hatchet can be an incredibly useful tool for any DIY enthusiast. Whether splitting logs, chopping through branches, or trimming lumber, this tool can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. You can use your carpenter hatchet like a professional with the right techniques. To use a carpenter hatchet like a pro, please follow the below steps:
- Choose the right Hatchet for the job. There are different sizes and types of hatchets available on the market, so it is important to select the one that is best suited for the task at hand. For example, a carpenter hatchet is a typically smaller and more lightweight than a standard hatchet, making it better suited for precision work.
- Grip the Hatchet firmly with both hands. Put your dominant hand around the hatchet head and your other hand near the handle. Make sure your hands are far apart enough that you have a good grip on the tool but close enough together that you can control its motion.
- Bend your knees slightly and keep your back straight. Position your feet to be slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and keep them flat on the ground.
- Raise the Hatchet high with both hands until it is directly over your head. Using both hands will help you guide the cutting edge down straight to achieve maximum force.
- Bring the Hatchet down quickly, placing its blade into the area where you want to chop or split wood. The farther out you put your dominant hand, the more significant amount of leverage on the tool and a more powerful swing you will have. You should also aim for a spot with a straight surface cut through 2 inches thick, as this size is ideal for splitting apart easily with a carpenter hatchet.
- Apply pressure to the Hatchet with your dominant hand as you swing it down. This will help guide the blade through the wood and keep it from getting stuck.
- Keep your arms straight as you bring the Hatchet back up to starting position. Do not lift your foot off of the ground during this motion. Repeat these steps as needed until the job is done.
When using a carpenter hatchet, always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid accidents. Make sure that there is plenty of space around you when chopping wood, and never swing the Hatchet at something that you are not prepared to cut through. Always wear safety gear, such as goggles and gloves, when using a hatchet to avoid injuries. With a little bit of practice, you will be able to use this handy tool like a pro!
How to Sharpen a Carpenter Hatched with Ease and Precision?
So, you have a carpenter hatchet, and you want to keep it sharp. But, you don't want to take it to a professional because that will cost money. So, here is how to sharpen your carpenter hatchet at home with ease and precision.
- Get yourself a sharpening stone. You can find these at most hardware stores or online. The size of the stone should be around 8 inches long and 3 inches wide.
- Lay the Hatchet on its side on the sharpening stone so that the blade is facing the ground.
- Apply pressure to the blade with your left hand while moving the sharpening stone up and down the blade. Do this for 5 minutes on each side of the blade.
- Flatten out a piece of wood and place it under the sharpening stone to keep it from moving while you sharpen.
- Give both sides of the hatchet blade ten passes with your angle grinder. This will put a nice polished finish on the blade, making it more effective at cutting through wood or other surfaces.
- Do not cut anything with the Hatchet until after you have applied oil to it because this could cause damage to both you and the Hatchet itself by making it rust or dull its edge too quickly after sharpening.
After following these steps, your carpenter hatchet should be just as effective as ever, if not more so. So enjoy your sharpened Hatchet and be safe while using it!
6 Safety Precautions when Using a Carpenters Hatchet
Carpenters hatchets are handy tools for any carpenter or woodworker. They're also relatively inexpensive and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect one to fit your hand.
Whether you plan on making furniture, cutting down trees, chopping firewood, splitting logs for kindling, or chipping away at some old railroad ties, having a good carpenters hatchet will make your life much easier. As with most things, though, there is a potential danger involved when using this powerful tool – especially if you don't have a firm understanding of how to use it correctly.
Here are six essential safety precautions to consider using a carpenters hatchet.
1. Keep your hand away from the strike zone.
The strike zone is an area of the head, usually found on either blade side. If you are not careful when using this tool, it can quickly transform into a dangerous weapon capable of cutting off your fingers or even part of your hand if you slip up just once!
When performing any movement with your arms while holding one of these hatchets, keep your fingers, thumb, and palm well away from the strike zone to avoid getting them accidentally chopped off. Even relatively soft objects, like cereal boxes, Styrofoam cups, empty buckets, etc., can cause severe finger damage if you're not careful.
2. Always use a hatchet with two hands.
When using any type of Hatchet, it's always best to use two hands for maximum control and precision. This is especially true when using a carpenters hatchet, larger and heavier than most other types. Holding the Hatchet with two hands also gives you more leverage and makes it less likely that the Hatchet will bounce out of control after striking its target.
If, for some reason, you find yourself in a situation where you have to use only one hand (like if you're holding something else in the other hand), make sure to grip the Hatchet as close to the head as possible to give you more control.
3. Be aware of your surroundings.
Whenever you're using any power tool, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and the potential hazards they present. And this is especially true when using a carpenters hatchet, which can easily cause severe damage if used carelessly.
Before you start swinging, always take a few seconds to assess the situation and make sure there are no obstacles or bystanders in the way that could get hurt. Also, be mindful of what you're striking – avoid hitting metal surfaces or other hard objects that could send shards of metal flying in all directions.
4. Always use the correct cutting surface.
Chopping wood is a lot harder than it looks, and one of the main reasons for this is that you need to use the correct cutting surface, or you'll quickly dull your blade. A good rule of thumb is always to use a piece of wood twice as thick as the hatchet blade itself. So if your Hatchet has a 2-inch blade, you should be using a piece of wood at least 4 inches thick.
If you're not using the correct cutting surface, not only will you struggle to chop effectively, but you'll also quickly wear down your blade and make it much more likely to slip and cause an injury.
5. Wear safety goggles.
Whenever you're using any power tool, it's always a good idea to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying objects. While this is not a concern when using a carpenters hatchet in most situations, it's still a good idea to wear them just in case any tiny shards of metal wander into the path of your swinging blade.
6. Make sure you're using the correct cutting technique for different types of wood.
One reason why chopping wood is so much harder than it looks is that there are many different types of wood, and each type requires its unique method and technique before you can successfully chop through it.
The easiest way to make sure you're using the correct technique to cut through a log or piece of firewood is by trying out three different techniques: one if chipping away at the end of the wood, one for chopping through the center, and one for cutting the wood off at an angle. Once you've found the technique that works best for the type of wood you're trying to chop, stick with it, and you'll be able to get the job done a lot quicker.
FAQs about Carpenter Hatchet
Is an axe a hatchet?
No, an axe is not the same thing as a hatchet. Though axes are typically heavier than hatchets, they are also used with different purposes in mind.
For example, an axe's head is shaped to cut into the wood with great force and torque, whereas the percussion of a hatchet head is designed mainly for splitting things like maple or larch logs efficiently. In addition, a quality axe often costs far more money than any hatchet, so it's usually sensible to buy separate tools if you require both. Still, if you already own one of either, it's worth considering them differently when selecting one.
Can you use a hatchet to split wood?
A hatchet can be used to split wood, but it won't have the same raw power as an ax. A hatchet is better suited for more delicate tasks where you want a cleaner cut or more precise blow, while an ax is more brutal and versatile.
Axes are also designed to plunge deep into the wood before splitting it vertically with momentum. For these reasons, the axe will likely produce faster results if the speed of work is your goal.
However, there's no real reason not to use a hatchet on some smaller projects like splitting kindling if you don't want to grab an axe.
What are hatchets good for?
Hatches are pretty good for cutting down trees, kindling wood, splitting logs into smaller pieces, making chicken coops, or even for general camping purposes.
Hatchets are great tools with many uses, including all of the examples mentioned above. However, unlike axes, hatchets are often lighter and easier to handle. This is mainly because they're not meant to cut through dense trees since they have a more narrow blade.
Also, due to their size, hatchets can't be used in most cases mangle heavy logs without causing injury to oneself-the way an ax would. These design features make these tools best suited towards doing small jobs, but with precision nonetheless!
Are hatchets weapons?
Hatchets are helpful as weapons because they can be used to destroy things quickly.
Even though a hatchet may not look as intimidating as a sword, it is still an effective weapon once you know what you're doing with it. A hatchet will do severe damage to limbs and joints much easier than a longer blade, and if wielded correctly through a window or door at someone attacking from behind, it can be instantaneously fatal. Hatchets flatten skulls with the same ease that swords cut ankles. They also don't require any kind of skill-set outside swinging it wildly around like Forrest Gump on steroids.
How big is a hatchet?
The average Hatchet as the blade only is 4 to 7 inches.
Generally, a hatchet can vary in size depending on the blade, handle length, and craftsmanship. One thing is sure, though - you can always feel safe chopping wood with one of these! They're typically made up of a metal blade (typically forged steel) that connects to a wooden handle with some form of metal fastening joining everything together.
Can you carry a hatchet?
For transport purposes, a "hatchet" is considered a tool and can be checked at the gates or sent as air freight. However, if your Hatchet is deemed an "axe," it would fall under the prohibited weapons category and could not be carried on board either in your carry-on or checked baggage.
Safety Notice: Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) will likely confiscate any hatchets they find during screening and forbid their transportation on any US-bound aircraft.
How long is a hatchet handle?
The handle, of course, can vary in length depending on the designer's preference. But an average hatchet handle will be about 12 to 18 inches long.
Should a hatchet be sharp?
The answer is yes. A hatchet should be sharp—several reasons to sharpen a hatchet, including safer use and more effective use. As many people know, a dull tool can easily slip off the object being worked on if pressure is not applied correctly. Sharpening your Hatchet will also increase its lifespan as the metal will wear down less rapidly because of the sharper blade.
Final Thoughts
The best carpenter hatchet is the one you will use. No matter how many different tools are on display in your home, they won't do much good if you don't have a reliable tool to get the job done when it's needed. We've reviewed some of the most popular options for this essential workhorse and highlighted what makes each stand out from its competitors. So if you need an upgrade or looking for a new addition to your collection, our reviews can help steer you in the right direction!