Camp Axe or hatchet advice?

[Bowman1964]

Hello Fellow Sportsmen and Women,

I’m looking for advice on a solid camp axe/hatchet. Would prefer it to be made here in the USA, but those seem to be tough to come by. Looked at a Swedish made axe by the name of bruks, but man they sure are proud of them!  I don’t mind doing the last 10% of the refinements necessary to bring an axe up to 100%, just want it to be solid/well made from head to tail to begin with.  Preferably a hickory or ash handle.  And to have the steel to hold an edge.  
And I want NOTHING made in the CHICOM nation either. 
Any help or advice is much appreciated! 
Bill

[6AYoteHunter]

https://counciltool.com/

Council axes are the best option for the money for a new axe. I have many of them and they still make some of the best models of axes. Made in the USA. Get some tung oil and coat around the eye at least a few times. A couple light coats on the handle. Make sure each coat dries completely. Lightly sand between coats. 

Helko Werk, Gransfors Bruks, and Prandi are the imported options worth comparing. Others don't seem to hold up well on the slow growing trees around here. 

For used axes Plum when still made in the USA is a very good option. 

 

[GreatWhiteBuffalo]

https://www.bnctools.com/products/allagash-cruiser-axe

 

[PRDATR]

I have a double blade 3/4 fiberglass handle axe that probably came from the hardware store 20 years ago and is still going strong. Hatchets are either fiberglass handle with a rubber grip or all metal with a rubber grip. None will break the bank.

Couldn't pay to own either one with a wood handle.

[Bowman1964]

Thanks guys!  Great options you listed!  I may look down in Palominas at 2nd hand place for a used Plum. 
bill

[Edge]

I have an option for you to consider, make your own, I'll teach you. This way you'll have not only a superior tool but an heirloom to hand down. 

I operate Arizonas oldest forge in Vulture City south of Wickenburg. In the last 3 years I've created at least a hundred forge welded axes in a 4 hour class. I have several steels to choose from but commonly use a proprietary Spanish made steel from Bellota. I still have the first one I ever made in my tool box. It's cut kindling to framing nails and I've yet to have to resharpen it.

And while the axe heats up in the forge we can alternate heats and beats. Make a nice skinner or Bowie or forge a cross from a railroad spike.  

Blacksmith Experience in Vulture City | Vulture Mine Tours https://share.google/XNqYYHeSUDjnXJ5vY

 

[bojangles]

I sprung for the bruks. (Gransfors bruks) Love it.  They are also sold under husqevarna sometimes.  Or look at a stihl.