What’s the difference between a hatchet and an axe and which one is right for your survival kit? In this article, we’re digging into the hatchet vs axe debate to figure out which one is the best fit for your survival needs.
While most people use the terms hatchet and axe interchangeably, there are some significant differences in the two. And those differences are going to matter in certain situations … especially if you’re trying to use an axe like a hatchet (please don’t do this)!
Hatchet vs Axe: The Main Difference Between Them
Hatchets and axes are very similar, and most people consider them the same thing.
Hatchets are actually just one of the many kinds of axes.
A few other kinds of axes:
- Tactical axe
- Grub Axe
- Forest Axe
When we’re looking at the hatchet vs axe question, we’re really only looking at a few small differences.
Hatchets are essentially just a lightweight axe with slightly different features.
Most modern hatchets and axes are made of a steel head attached to a wooden handle.
Some are made entirely of steel like this small Zombinator Hatchet, and others are made of steel with a leather grip, like this Estwing Sportman Axe Camping Hatchet.
Although hatchets and axes are similar, there are three main differences that separate the two:
- Size
- Strategy for Use
- Poll
Let’s dig into the anatomy of the axe and then discuss these 3 points so we can figure out which one of these are a better fit for your emergency kit or survival gear.
Anatomy of an Axe
An axe is made up of a head and a handle. There are a few commonly known parts of each.
Parts of the axe head:
- Bit
- Toe of the Bit
- Heel of the bit
- Cheek
- Eye
- Beard
- Poll (or Butt)
Parts of the axe body:
- Shoulder
- Body
- Back
- Belly
- Grip
- Knob
Here’s an image that shows all parts of the axe.
Anatomy of the Hatchet
Since a hatchet is a smaller kind of axe, the parts are almost identical.
The main difference though, is that the poll (or butt) of the hatchet is hardened steel. It’s hardened so that you can use it as a hammer, if needed.
So, back to those main three differences between the standard axe and the hatchet.
Size: an axe has a longer handle and it’s generally a larger tool. A hatchet is small and meant to fit in one hand.
Strategy: A standard axe is meant to be used with two hands, to maximize striking power for chopping wood or other materials. A standard hatchet is smaller, can fit in one hand, and can be used in more compact areas for chopping.
Poll: the Poll of a standard axe is not hardened and and the poll of a hatchet IS hardened, so that it can be used as a hammer.
Hatchet vs Axe: Does it Matter Which One You Use?
Although the hatchet and the axe are similar, they were actually designed to do different things.
As we know, when it comes to tools, it’s best to use them for the things they were designed for if you want maximum efficiency and safety.
So yes. Depending on what you are trying to accomplish, it does matter which one you use.
Hatchet or Axe: Which One Should You Keep in Your Survival Kit
For most of us, a hatchet is the most logical tool to keep in our survival kit. It’s smaller, it’s multi-functional, and can be easily stored in a compact space.
Our favorite hatchet? The multi-tool Zombinator hatchet from Frog and Co.