Survival Axes

Gabriel Rapid
10 min readJun 18, 2024

For those who love adventure and are always prepared for unexpected situations, a survival axe is a must-have tool. This roundup article will showcase a selection of the best survival axes on the market, designed to assist in various scenarios. Whether you’re hiking through the wilderness or just want to be ready for anything, these axes will prove to be invaluable.

The Top 6 Best Survival Axes

  1. LIANTRAL Folding Tactical Survival Axe for Outdoor Adventures — The LIANTRAL Survival Camping Axe, a versatile tool for any outdoor adventure, offers essential features such as a hammer, compass, whistle, and grindstone for ultimate preparedness.
  2. Est Gear Camping Axe Shovel for Survival — The Est Gear Camp Axe Survival Shovel: A versatile and compact 20-in-1 essential tool for all your outdoor adventures and unexpected emergencies.
  3. Kilimanjaro Survival Axe: 910095 Shira Model — The Kilimanjaro 910095 Shira Survival Axe features a durable stainless steel blade, full tang construction, and a high-tack rubberized handle for a sure grip in various outdoor conditions, all included in a nylon sheath.
  4. High-Quality Firemans Survival Axe for Outdoor Adventures — Experience unmatched sturdiness and durability with the Marbles Fireman’s Survival Axe, meticulously crafted from top-tier materials and built to conquer any challenging scenario.
  5. Woodman’s Pal 2.0: American-Made Survival Axe with Sheath and Accessories — The Woodman’s Pal 2.0 — a versatile survival tool that transforms camping, fishing, and hunting into a breeze.
  6. CRKT Freyr Survival Axe — The Freyr tactical axe combines timeless design with modern durability, offering a well-balanced and reliable tool for all your survival needs.

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Reviews

LIANTRAL Folding Tactical Survival Axe for Outdoor Adventures

Introducing the LIANTRAL Survival Camping Axe, a must-have addition to your outdoor gear. This multi-tool is not only durable and effective, but it also provides multiple functions to make your adventure smoother.

The axe is crafted with premium stainless steel, ensuring both strength and sharpness to tackle various tasks. The folding design ensures portability without compromising on its capabilities. The attachment points for the extension bars make the axe versatile, adjusting to different requirements.

To ensure your safety while out in the wilderness, the LIANTRAL Survival Camping Axe comes with a safety hammer as part of the package. The compass and whistle will guide you when you need help finding your way back home.

The included nylon sheath not only protects the axe when it’s not in use but also adds an element of style. With the added magnesium rods and axe care oil, maintaining and cleaning your axe is a breeze.

This survival axe weighs only 2.14 pounds but delivers the power and reliability you need to survive in the great outdoors. Although sharp and effective, remember to handle with care and follow all the provided safety instructions to enjoy this product safely and to its fullest.

Est Gear Camping Axe Shovel for Survival

Emergencies happen unexpectedly, and having the right tool can save the day. EST Gear offers a compact axe and survival shovel that can be easily stored in your vehicle for those unforeseen situations. Notably, it comes with a storage bag, making it convenient to carry on any outdoor adventure.

With its 20-in-1 functionality, this multifunctional axe is a must-have for camping, hiking, and off-roading. The EST Gear Survival Axe Shovel is designed to be portable and foldable, making it perfect for those who love the great outdoors.

I recently took it on a camping trip, and it proved to be an essential tool for splitting wood and digging. EST Gear’s attention to craftsmanship is evident in their product, which is evident in their 4.9 rating and 14 reviews.

Kilimanjaro Survival Axe: 910095 Shira Model

The Shira Survival Axe, aptly named after the Shira Plateau in Tanzania, is a reliable tool to have in your wilderness adventures. I’ve been testing this axe in different scenarios and have found it to be a worthy companion. With its sturdy 3Cr13MoV stainless steel blade and titanium nitride finish, this axe not only looks great but also performs remarkably well. Its full tang construction adds extra strength, giving me the confidence to use it for various tasks.

One of the best features of the Shira Axe is its high-tack rubberized handle, providing a firm and comfortable grip even in slippery conditions. The nylon sheath is a thoughtful addition, making storage and transporting the axe convenient and safe. Although it’s on the heavier side compared to other survival axes I’ve tried, its durability has been proven time and time again.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable survival axe for your adventures, the Shira Axe should not be overlooked. With its impressive craftsmanship and versatile features, it definitely proves its worth and earns a 4.7-star rating.

High-Quality Firemans Survival Axe for Outdoor Adventures

The Marbles Fireman’s Survival Axe has become a trusty companion in my daily life. The axe’s 15-inch length and 8.75-inch carbon steel head are perfect for tackling various tasks, while the natural wood handle offers a comfortable grip with a touch of style. One of the most impressive features is the unique cutout, which allows the axe to open fire hydrants and oxygen tanks in emergencies — a must-have for any firefighter.

However, the sturdiness of the axe head comes with a downside — rust. The red finish was a lovely touch initially, but over time, it started to chip away, revealing the metal underneath. Nevertheless, this didn’t hamper the performance or durability of the axe, which remains a top priority for me.

Overall, the Marbles Fireman’s Survival Axe is a versatile and reliable tool, crafted with the highest quality materials and built for optimal performance. Though rust can be a minor inconvenience, the benefits of this product far outweigh the downside.

Woodman’s Pal 2.0: American-Made Survival Axe with Sheath and Accessories

Experience the ultimate versatility with the Woodman’s Pal 2.0 — a multi-use axe machete designed for survival scenarios. This durable tool is perfect for camping, fishing, hunting, and bushcraft, as it easily chops through 1.5-inch saplings and fills larger trees and brush. Crafted with a strong 17-inch black powder-coated 1075HC steel blade, the handle is made of sturdy Ash wood with Urethane coating and hand-rubbed beeswax for an extra firm grip.

The leather cord lanyard ensures the axe stays secure, while the included sharpening stone and reprints of 1914 owner’s manuals further enhance the tool’s functionality. Handcrafted in Pennsylvania with top-quality American materials, this USA-made survival accessory is sure to impress.

CRKT Freyr Survival Axe

crkt-2746-freyr-axe-1

Designed by Elmer Roush, a craftsman with a passion for history, the Freyr tactical axe combines classic aesthetic features with modern functionality. Unlike the average axe, it boasts a beautiful and distinctive beard on the head, inspired by Viking styles and designs. The Freyr axe’s deep beard not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances its balance and overall durability.

Made of 1060 Carbon Steel, the Freyr axe’s blade promises precision and edge retention, even under heavy use. Its 4.528-inch blade is known to be versatile and adept at chopping through a variety of materials. The handle, fashioned from Tennessee hickory wood, provides a firm and sturdy grip, even when hands are wet or covered in dirt.

Users of the Freyr axe appreciate its well-balanced feel and ease of use, particularly in tough outdoor conditions. While some have reported minor issues with the quality of the blade or the handle, many are quick to point out these problems can be remedied with a bit of extra care during use and sharpening.

Overall, the Freyr tactical axe is a solid and attractive tool that’s versatile and durable enough to tackle any survival scenario. Its unique design and robust materials make it a valuable addition to any serious camper or outdoor enthusiast’s toolkit.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to survival situations, having the right tools can make a significant difference in your ability to stay safe and secure. One such essential tool is the survival axe, which combines the functionality of a traditional axe with additional features tailored for survival scenarios. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll cover the important aspects to consider when choosing a survival axe and provide general advice on their use.

Material

The material of the survival axe is a crucial factor to consider. A high-quality axe should be made from durable, long-lasting materials that can withstand the demands of outdoor use. Steel and titanium are popular choices due to their strength and resistance to corrosion. Ensure the axe has a sturdy handle, preferably made from a combination of rubber and plastic for a comfortable grip.

Size and Weight

Survival axes come in various sizes and weights. A larger, heavier axe might provide more power and durability, but it could also be more challenging to carry over long distances. Consider your intended use and environment when selecting an axe size and weight. For example, a shorter, lighter axe might be more suitable for bushcraft and camping, while a larger, heavier one could be better for chopping firewood or clearing a trail.

Additional Features

A good survival axe should have additional features that enhance its versatility and usefulness in various situations. These features may include a hammer head, a pick, a flathead, or even a saw. While not all of these features will be necessary, having a combination of tools in one axe can prove invaluable in a survival scenario.

Maintaining and Sharpening

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your survival axe, proper maintenance and sharpening are essential. Regularly clean the axe after use and protect it from rust and corrosion with a suitable oil or wax. When it comes to sharpening, use a high-quality stone and follow proper techniques to maintain the axe’s cutting edge. Regular maintenance will not only extend the life of your axe but also ensure it remains effective in any situation.

FAQ

What does a survival axe consist of?

A survival axe is a multipurpose tool that includes an axe head, a serrated blade, and a hammer section. These components make it suitable for a variety of survival tasks such as cutting wood, splitting kindling, and driving stakes. Additionally, the serrated blade can be used for sawing and the hammer section can be used for breaking down larger pieces of firewood.

The axe head itself is made of high-quality materials, such as steel, to guarantee durability and resistance to wear. The handle is often made from ergonomic designs to ensure a comfortable grasp, even during long use. Many survival axes also boast protective sheaths to keep the blade from unintentional damage and ensure safe storage.

What are the benefits of using a survival axe?

A survival axe offers many advantages over other camping or survival tools. Its versatility allows it to tackle a variety of tasks in the wild, making it an essential item for outdoor enthusiasts. The axe head can be used to chop small diameter wood into kindling, split larger firewood, or even baton larger pieces for kindling. The serrated blade can be used for sawing tasks or breaking down objects. And in case of a survival scenario, the hammer end can be used for breaking through ice or pounding large items.

Moreover, the survival axe is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry on your outdoor excursions. While multi-tool knives or hatchets might have several functions, survival axes often offer heavier-duty tools capable of enduring harsh outdoor conditions. And, because it’s a single piece of equipment, it eliminates the need to carry multiple tools, making it a wise investment for any survival kit.

What are the key features of a high-quality survival axe?

When purchasing a survival axe, consider the following features: durability of the axe head, the material and construction of the handle, the functionality of the serrated blade or hammer section, and the presence of a reliable protective sheath. Look for axes made of high-quality steel or other materials that can withstand use in harsh outdoor environments. The handle should be ergonomically designed for a secure, comfortable grip, while the serrated blade and hammer section should be versatile and efficient in their respective tasks.

A reliable protective sheath is also crucial to ensure the safety of the user and others in the camp, as well as the longevity of the axe by protecting it from unnecessary damage. High-quality sheaths offer excellent protection and a secure fit, minimizing the risk of injury or blade exposure when in use.

Why should I choose a survival axe over a regular multi-tool or a hatchet?

A survival axe offers several advantages over a regular multi-tool or a hatchet for outdoor enthusiasts. While multi-tool knives and hatchets serve many purposes, survival axes provide tougher and heavier tools designed to endure harsh outdoor conditions. They are typically more durable and robust than other multi-tools, making them the go-to choice for heavy axe tasks and long-term use. Moreover, the additional features of a survival axe, such as a serrated blade and hammer section, extend its versatility for a wider range of tasks.

The fact that it is a one-piece equipment also makes it more practical than a hatchet or a multi-tool kit. You eliminate the need to carry and manage several small tools, streamlining your outdoor camping setup. Considering the weight, size, and durability, a survival axe provides excellent value for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a rugged tool suitable for various scenarios.

How should I maintain a survival axe to prolong its lifespan?

To ensure the longevity of your survival axe, perform regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning and oiling after use. After cutting operations, especially when using the axe for a long time, clear any residual dirt, debris, or moisture. Use a small brush or cloth to clean the axe, paying attention to areas where dirt and sweat may accumulate.

It is also essential to oil the axe head frequently, particularly before and after the first use in rainy environments. Ensure the axe head is well-oiled to prevent rusting and protect the tool from harsh conditions. Lastly, using a good-quality protective sheath when not in use can prevent dirt and moisture from contacting the axe.

Are survival axes suitable for camping scenarios or just for survival situations?

Contrary to the popular belief that survival axes are only suitable for survival situations, they can prove to be highly beneficial in a variety of other scenarios, such as camping trips. Their flexibility and multi-purpose functionalities make them a must-have in any camping equipment. You can use them for chopping firewood, preparing food items, cutting branches or vines, hammering in stakes, and many more.

So, while many people associate survival axes with survival scenarios, their utility extends well beyond these situations, making them an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast or camper. With the right upkeep and application, they will continue to serve you well in all types of environments and scenarios.

As an Amazon Affiliate™, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

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