3 Important Factors to Consider When Buying a Hunting Axe
Axes have been one of the most commonly used hunting weapons throughout the entirety of human history. Even in this day and age, they still have their own unique uses when hunting, and many hunters rely on them for a wide range of uses when out in the wilderness. If you’re looking to buy a hunting axe, there are a couple of important factors to consider in order to make sure you get the most suitable model. Some of these factors include the head shape and cutting edge of the axe, it’s weight, the length of the handle and the materials it’s made of.
Head Shape & Cutting Edge
When picking a hunting axe, you’ll find models that have a spike/flat back head, a single or a double head. There are a couple of other types as well, but these are the most popular ones. Spike/flat back head hunting axes are arguably the most popular type, due to the fact that they’re extremely versatile and allow you to pound and hammer things, which can be extremely useful when trying to set up camp.
As far as the cutting edge of the axe goes, a longer cutting edge will translate in a larger, and heavier axe head. The added edge length and weight, however, will provide more force when you swing it. This can make chopping doors and splitting wood much easier. A narrow cutting edge, on the other hand, will allow you to pierce deeper since the axe will face less resistance.
Handle Length
The handle length of the axe can be anywhere from about 20cm to 50cm and more. Depending on how you intend on using it, the ideal length for your needs will vary. An axe with a longer handle will give you more force when swinging and more leverage when prying, but it will be heavier and less compact. An axe with a smaller handle, on the other hand, will be more effective in close quarters and will be easier to carry around. Hunting axe handles are usually made of wood, or some sort of metal like stainless steel or alloy.
Weight
The weight of the axe is determined by its size, and the materials used for its construction. Technology is moving forward very quickly, which means that nowadays, there are lighter yet stronger materials than there were ever before. Stainless steel is heavy, yet durable and strong, whereas steel alloys are slightly lighter, but also slightly weaker.
