Kindling means gathering small pieces of wood to ignite a fire. So to start the fire, it is essential whether you are out camping or using a wood-burning stove at home.
In some colder regions, people also use small pieces of wood to warm their houses. They have small fireplaces in their homes and are constantly struggling to gather wood for the fire.
Table of contents
- Best Hatchet for kindling
- Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet
- Schrade SCAXE10 11.1in Full Tang Hatchet
- Estwing Fireside Friend Axe
- Schrade SCAXE2 11.8in Stainless Steel Small Axe
- NedFoss Hatchet with Sheath
- Fiskars Camping Axe XXS X5
- Gerber 9-Inch Hatchet
- Gerber 17.5-Inch Freescape Hatchet
- Schrade Mini Axe
- WatchFire 10″ Black Axe-Head Hatchet
- Husqvarna 13 inches Wooden Handle Hatchet
- TABOR TOOLS Chopping Axe
- Buying Guide for Purchasing Best Hatchet for Kindling
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Although kindling is easy and can be done with a suitable hatchet, sometimes it is dangerous. In this post, we will go into the details about kindling with a potential hatchet.
Best Hatchet for kindling
Here, I will describe 12 high-quality and durable kindling hatchets. Most surprisingly, these hatchets for kindling are very safe and easy to use.
Even though some people dislike hatchets for cutting kindling, they are nowadays the safest and easiest tools to use.
Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet
Key Features
| Brand | Fiskars |
| Item Dimensions | 16.5 x 5.5 x 1 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.4 Pounds |
| Color | NULL |
| Style | Hatchet |
If you search for the best Hatchet for splitting kindling, then you are at the right place. This incredible tool is ideal for chopping kindling and small size logs and branches.
It can cut the wood in a very short time because it chops deeper. Moreover, this Hatchet for cutting kindling gives you perfect balance and power to weight ratio. Thus the swing speed is increased multiple times.
Most surprisingly, this kindling hatchet is equipped with a proprietary blade grinding technique that gives you a sharper edge for better contact.
The blade of this Hatchet has a low friction coating that prevents the head from getting stuck. On the whole, it is a very lightweight, ergonomic, and stylish hatchet for kindling.
Schrade SCAXE10 11.1in Full Tang Hatchet
Key Features
| Brand | Schrade |
| Item Dimensions | 12.5 x 6.5 x 1.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.62 Kilograms |
| Color | Multi |
| Blade length | 3.6 Inches |
Schrade is a great hatchet for cutting kindling with a classic look. It is a very lightweight kindling hatchet weighing only one pound 5.9 ounces. Most surprisingly, the blade of this Hatchet is very durable.
If we talk about the handle of this Hatchet, then it is a high-quality rubber-wrapped handle. It is a black color rubber handle with an amazing grip. In addition, it is also a portable splitting hatchet which you can carry wherever you want.
It is very secure to use because of the rubber-wrapped handle. So the blade will not slip when you are using it for cutting wood.
You can take your small Hatchet for camping and survival, and it is considered the best Hatchet for the price.
Estwing Fireside Friend Axe
Key Features
| Brand | Estwing |
| Item Dimensions | 14.25 x 5.83 x 1.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 7 ounces |
| Material | Solid American steel |
| Color | Blue |
| Size | One Size |
| Other Components | Fireside Friend Splitting Tool |
If you search for a high-quality hatchet for cutting kindling, then Estwing Fireside is made for you. This incredible axe is built for high performance and durability. You will not be unsure about its quality because it is made in the United States with great craftsmanship.
Moreover, it is considered to be the best Hatchet for sturdiness and maneuverability. Also, you can take this Hatchet anywhere you want in camping or outdoor activities because it is very lightweight.
You can easily pack your wood-splitting Hatchet in your backpack. It is an amazing gadget with a shock-reduction grip. Also, it can reduce the impact vibration by over 70%. The heavy-duty sheath is made up of Nylon and is also helpful in protecting sharpened cutting-edge
Schrade SCAXE2 11.8in Stainless Steel Small Axe
Key Features
| Brand | Schrade |
| Item Dimensions | 15 x 7 x 2 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.44 Pounds |
| Color | Gray |
| Handle Material | Rubber |
Schrade is a fantastic tool for building heavy-duty knives and tools with great craftsmanship. There are different types of blades in these hatchets, such as folded and fixed blade knives.
Schrade is the best Hatchet for splitting kindling with titanium-coated stainless steelhead. The handle of this Hatchet is ergonomic and made up of rubber. So this rubber handle comes up with a great grip.
This rubber handle is also called a thermoplastic rubber handle that is very comfortable to handle. Most surprisingly, the sharp and strong blade makes the tool stand out among many potential hatchets in the market.
NedFoss Hatchet with Sheath
Key Features
| Brand | NedFoss |
| Item Dimensions | 9.49 x 5.28 x 1.14 inches |
| Item Weight | 15.2 Ounces |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Null |
| Head Type | Hatchet |
| Blade Length | 4.5 Inches |
NedFoss is a top-class 9-inch hatchet for kindling. It is compact and lightweight, and ideal for camping and travel. You can also call it a safety tool when there is a need for survival or when you go to the jungle.
The blade of this wood-splitting Hatchet is made of top-quality stainless steel material. Moreover, it can give you razor-sharp cutting performance while in use.
The construction of this Hatchet is fantastic and reliable, thus giving you marvelous functionality and longevity. The ergonomic and powerful handle of the axe is made of fine and precious natural wood.
Fiskars Camping Axe XXS X5
Key Features
| Brand | Fiskars |
| Item Dimensions | 9.06 x 5.12 x 0.79 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.55 Kilograms |
| Color | Standard Black/Orange |
| Style | X5 |
Most people use Fiskars Hatchet for camping and splitting small logs. It can easily cut branches that are 3 cm in diameter. During camping or other outdoor activities, you can easily cut the small wood for the fireplace, BBQ, or campfire.
The blade of this kindling hatchet is very sharp and made up of high quality and sturdy Steel material. Moreover, this sharp blade is coated with high-quality material to make it perfect for use.
If we talk about the handle of this Hatchet, then it is made up of high-quality, lightweight, and weather-resistant fiberglass plastic. On the whole, it is top quality and a potential kindling hatchet in the market.
Gerber 9-Inch Hatchet
Key Features
| Brand | Gerber Gear |
| Item Dimensions | 1.1 x 6.1 x 11.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 19.4 Ounces |
| Material | Forged Steel Head |
| Color | Black |
| Handle Material | Wood |
| Size | 9-Inch |
The Gerber hatchet for kindling is especially known as the more powerful and efficient tool. It consists of forged steelhead with a composite handle that is extremely lightweight and durable.
The handle is very soft to touch and will give you an amazing grip while performing the task. No one can deny its reliability because the product is made in Finland with exceptional artistry.
You can easily hold this wood-splitting Hatchet because the handle is easy to hold. Additionally, this handle is shock absorbent, thus reducing the hand strain. In the accessories, a slim sheath is present that gives you safe storage and transport.
Gerber 17.5-Inch Freescape Hatchet
Key Features
| Brand | Gerber Gear |
| Item Dimensions | 1.3 x 7.7 x 19.3 inches |
| Item Weight | 32.6 Ounces |
| Blade Material | Alloy Steel |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 17.5-Inch |
While splitting the wood with the Hatchet, many people prefer the Hatchet with a long handle. However, nowadays, modern hatchets are not very long because most people prefer normal-length kindling hatchets.
According to different experts, if the handle is longer, you don’t need much to split the wood. The ideal Hatchet for splitting wood is Gerber. If you need more control over your Hatchet, then this one is made for you.
The blade of the Hatchet is made up of high-quality Stainless Steel that is coated with Teflon. Keep in mind that coating with Teflon gives your blade a low friction feature.
Schrade Mini Axe
Key Features
| Brand | Schrade |
| Item Dimensions | 14 x 6.7 x 1.7 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.33 Pounds |
| Handle Material | Rubber |
| Color | Green |
Schrade Mini is considered a versatile and long-lasting hatchet for kindling. You can use this Hatchet for performing different wood cutting tasks such as outdoor activities, BBQ, or campaigns.
Although it is small, it proved to be an ideal gadget that is affordable, powerful, and efficient. The 11-inch handle wrapped in rubber makes it very easy to hold even in the hot summers.
A thermoplastic cover is also present on this handle so that you can carry it anywhere without cutting yourself. Moreover, it is ideal for cutting down small tree branches, splitting the kindling, and chopping wood.
WatchFire 10″ Black Axe-Head Hatchet
Key Features
| Brand | WatchFire |
| Item Dimensions | 10 x 4 x 1 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.73 Pounds |
| Handle Material | Rubber |
| Color | Black |
| Blade Length | 4 Inches |
If you want to chop wood, you have to get the lighter axe with a sharp blade to cut it efficiently. Edward Tools also comes in the category of a very sharp and Powerful hatchet for cutting kindling.
Many people are comfortable with a wooden handle, and so if you are interested in a wooden handle, you can purchase this wood-splitting Hatchet.
Most surprisingly, it is a very lightweight hatchet weighing only about 2 pounds, making it easier for chopping down trees. On the whole, it is a premium quality hatchet for kindling and is perfect for the average customer.
Husqvarna 13 inches Wooden Handle Hatchet
Key Features
| Brand | Husqvarna |
| Item Dimensions | 19 x 6.5 x 0.98 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.24 Pounds |
| Color | Orange/Gray |
| Style | 13 in. Wooden Handle Hatchet |
| Extra Components | leather edge cover |
If you want a potential hatchet for kindling that can easily chop small branches and can split smaller logs, then you have come to the right place. It is a 13-inch hatchet that is affordable and of high quality.
So it comes in the category of the best budget present in the market. Normally, it consists of a fiber composite handle that is lightweight, durable, and easy to hold. The rubber grip will make it easier for you to throw accurate strokes.
One thing which makes it superior among other handling hazards is its superior and sharp blade design. So with the help of this sharp blade, you can do your task very easily and fastly.
TABOR TOOLS Chopping Axe
Key Features
| Brand | TABOR TOOLS |
| Item Dimensions | 14 x 6 x 1 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.92 Pounds |
| Color | Orange |
| Head Type | Hatchet |
Tabor Tools is a small 12-inch hatchet that helps users handle different medium to heavy-duty cutting jobs. The good thing about this Hatchet for kindling is that you can chop the wood without straining your muscles.
So now you do not have to put a lot of energy while splitting kindling. Most surprisingly, it is the best Hatchet for splitting wood that is easy to use by maintaining perfect balance.
It is considered to be an ideal hatchet for cutting kindling that comes with a very sharp blade to cut the small branches in no time. On the whole, this Hatchet is a perfect combination of balance and performance.
Buying Guide for Purchasing Best Hatchet for Kindling
Keep in mind that choosing the kindling Hatchet is quite different than choosing a simple traditional full-sized axe.
The reason is that while searching for a wood-splitting hatchet, our main purpose is to look for the balance between portability, accuracy, and ease of use, etc.
In addition, the kindling Hatchet must be equipped with great chopping power to split the wood in one go. Although you have to keep in mind certain factors while purchasing the kindling Hatchet, it also depends on how well you intend to use your Hatchet.
You must also keep in mind other factors if you want to use your Hatchet beyond just chopping the kindling.
Weight of the kindling hatchet
We all know very well that the weight of the Hatchet is dependent on different things, such as the shape and size of the axe head. It also depends on the material used for the manufacturing as well as the length of the handle.
However, if we are concerned about the weight of the Hatchet, then it should be light and can be held with one hand. It depends from user to user. The weight of most wood-splitting hatchets ranges from incredibly lightweight, from less than 1 pound to moderately heavy, which is more than 2 pounds.
Length of the handle
Normally, there is no difference in the length of the handles of the hatches and kindling axes. The normal length of the Hatchet for kindling ranges between 14 to 16 inches.
On the other side, if you go for more length handles, you will indirectly increase the chopping power of the axe. Most people like to use lighter kindling hatchets as compared to heavier ones and longer axes.
Sheath of the Hatchet
As we have to carry the Hatchet for kindling and axes, a high-quality sheath is an essential accessory.
A sheath is very helpful in covering the sharp edge while carrying the axe. Also, the cutting edge remains sharp when you put it in the sheath all the time.
Handle Material for hatchet
The handle material comes in different options. Just like the traditional axes, the handle material of splitting kindling also has different materials. These materials may be fiberglass, steel, or wood.
It depends on your choice of which material you handle. Keep in mind that these materials come up with their own benefits and drawbacks.
Fiberglass handle for hatchet
Fiberglass handles are very much lighter in weight as compared to wooden handles. They give you amazing resistance against the material. Fiberglass material is also good in durability and vibration absorption.
If you are intended to go for fiberglass, then make sure that the axe head is also lightweight for proper balancing. The only drawback of fiberglass material is that it is not as easily replaceable as wood. So make sure that the manufacturer is also offering the handle replacement service.
Wood for the hatchet handle
As we all know that wood is a classic and traditional option which usually many people want to go for. Wood is an excellent material in vibration absorption, longevity, and durability.
However, it is more intended to be damaged by moisture and other outdoor elements. But overall wooden handles are very good from all aspects as well as easily replaceable. Moisture is always present in that area where the humidity level is greater.
Steel handles of hatchet
Steel handles are not very much used by the manufacturer as well as the people, though they are very durable and cheap. The only drawback of steel handles is that they are very heavy and offer no vibration absorption.
So during kindling, the impact of chopping is fully transferred to the arm of the person while swinging the axe. Mostly, it is recommended by the manufacturers not to use the steel handles constantly because it may result in serious physical injuries.
Grip of hatchet handle
Gripping the Hatchet for kindling is considered a very important feature. The reason is that you have to hold it in one hand. Always go for that design that gives you an incredible grip with additional tackiness.
You can also go for a rubber sleeve that gives you added vibration absorption. Several factors determine how durable a grip is, including its bond with the handle and its ability to withstand frequent use without getting damaged.
How to make kindling with a hatchet?
- You can go for many safe ways to split kindling, including some of the hatchets that I will describe later. Keep in mind that using a hatchet is a little bit tricky. If you swing the blade while holding the piece of firewood, it would be dangerous.
- This section will explain how you can split kindling with a hatchet safely.
- Many people use split kindling in the wrong way. Usually, people hold up the log with one hand and swing the Hatchet with the other hand.
- When the cutting edge is stuck in the wood, you can lift the Hatchet along with the firewood. After stucking the edge in the wood, it is time to drive the log downwards to finish splitting the wood in half.
- However, on the other side, it is better to split the log in one fell swoop. When you use the axe and the wood together, then it greatly reduces the chance of hurting yourself.
- This is because now you do not have to hold the log with your other hand. All you have to do is to hold the axe with both hands and cut the wood immediately.
- Although it is a great method for wood kindling, there is another best method. A method that will help you to remove the chance of a glancing blow to your fingers.
Good way for Splitting Kindling
- One of the good ways of splitting kindling is to lay down the log horizontally on the ground. This is a good method rather than standing your firewood vertically and chopping it down on end.
- When the log is laid horizontally, you can chop it down towards the end of the firewood. Another good method of splitting the wood is when the Hatchet is stuck into the wood, you must lift both the Hatchet and wood and drive both of them.
- When you do it with a lot of force, an impact will split the log in half. With the kindling Hatchet, this method is considered the safest way to cut kindling.
- While using a hatchet for kindling, you can also use thick gloves.
- However, it is strictly recommended by the users to use thick gloves while kindling. You can purchase leather gloves from your local departmental store. They are durable as well as protect your hands during the process.
Fast Way to Cut Kindling
- If you will be lighting fires regularly, it is better to learn how to cut kindling quickly and efficiently. Splitting kindling is somewhat tricky because the pieces keep flying off, and you have to keep re-splitting them.
- The best and fastest way to make kindling is to split straight, well-seasoned logs and have an even grain without knots. Place it on a splitting block and tie it at the base below the halfway point with an old rope or bicycle inner tube.
- Place the axe blade on the log, and use the mallet to drive it in. By rotating the handle, you can split the log down its length and slice every inch. A rope holds the kindling together to prevent it from falling apart.
FAQ
Is kindling supposed to be seasoned?
It does not matter whether the drilling is seasoned or not. It should be dry enough so that the wood can be burnt quickly and efficiently. This process helps get a fire going as quickly as possible.
Mostly kindling is done with the help of seasoned or kiln-dried wood. However, on the whole, the most important thing is that kindling should be dry to get the fire quickly and burn easily.
Can you split wood with a hatchet?
Yes, you can easily split wood with a hatchet, but it will be best when you do it on a flat surface. There is no need to drive the blade down on a flat surface when you are cutting wood.
First of all, grab the wood-splitting Hatchet, preferably with two hands, raise it over your head and throw it down on the wood. Your purpose of action should be on the bottom of the log you are trying to split rather than the top.
How do axes and hatchets differ?
Hatchets are considered small one-hand axes that are particularly used for chopping wood. They are mostly used for chopping small branches of trees and splitting small pieces of firewood.
On the other hand, axes should be used with two hands, especially to maximize the striking power.
At what angle can you sharpen a hatchet?
The ideal angle at which you can sharpen your Hatchet is about 25° which is slightly convex. It is usually recommended to file equally on both sides of the blades until the sharpening gauge is sharpened perfectly.
Conclusion
After reviewing the so many products, Conclusion makes the selection easy for every product buyers
Our Top Pick
From my point of view, Estwing Fireside Friend Axe is considered the best Hatchet for splitting wood. It is a very safe gadget as well as easy to use. If we talk about the cost of this kindling hatchet, then it is very cheap and affordable.
This Hatchet will give you a sharper end for better contact and cleaner cuts. It could be possible with the help of a proprietary blade grinding technique. Moreover, a lifetime warranty makes it stand out in the field of other kindling hatchets present in the market.
Wood splitting hatchets are mostly used for kindling. Now, it’s your wish to go for a traditional approach to making kindling or to use different useful and safe devices.
In this post, I have described 12 amazing best hatchets for splitting tingling from which you can choose according to your convenience. However, you have to keep in mind three things before purchasing the best kindling. These hatchets for wood should be easy to use, safe and affordable.