Best Bushcraft Hammer: Top Picks for Outdoor Survival in 2023

When it comes to bushcraft, having the right tools is essential for success. One of the most important tools to have in your kit is a hammer. However, not all hammers are created equal, and choosing the right one for bushcraft can be a challenge. In this article, we will be discussing the best bushcraft hammers on the market.

A bushcraft hammer is a specialized tool designed for outdoor use. It is typically smaller and lighter than a traditional hammer, making it easier to carry in a backpack or on a belt. When choosing a bushcraft hammer, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you’ll want to look for a hammer made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Second, you’ll want to consider the weight and size of the hammer, as you’ll be carrying it with you on the trail. Finally, you’ll want to consider the design of the hammer, as some designs are better suited for specific tasks.

After researching and testing several bushcraft hammers, we have identified the top options on the market. Whether you’re an experienced outdoorsman or just starting, having the right hammer can make all the difference in your bushcraft adventures.

Best Bushcraft Hammers

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a bushcraft hammer can be a useful tool for your camping or hiking trips. These hammers are designed to handle a variety of tasks, including splitting wood, driving tent stakes, and pounding nails. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best bushcraft hammers on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced camper, you’re sure to find a hammer that suits your needs.

SOG Camp Axe

The SOG Camp Axe is a versatile and durable tool that is perfect for camping and survival situations.

Pros

• The stainless steel chopping axe blade is sharp and efficient, making it easy to split wood and chop branches.
• The lightweight design of the axe makes it easy to carry on backpacking trips or camping excursions.
• The textured GRN handle provides a comfortable grip, even when using the axe for extended periods of time.

Cons

• The sheath that comes with the axe is not very durable and may need to be replaced after extended use.
• The hatchet may be too small for larger chopping jobs, making it better suited for smaller tasks.
• The price of the SOG Camp Axe may be higher than some other camping hatchets on the market.

The SOG Camp Axe is a great tool for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile hatchet for camping or survival situations. The stainless steel blade is sharp and efficient, making it easy to split wood and chop branches. The lightweight design of the axe also makes it easy to carry on backpacking trips or camping excursions.

In addition, the textured GRN handle provides a comfortable grip, even when using the axe for extended periods of time. However, the sheath that comes with the axe may not be very durable and may need to be replaced after extended use. Additionally, the hatchet may be too small for larger chopping jobs, making it better suited for smaller tasks.

Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and versatile camping hatchet, the SOG Camp Axe is definitely worth considering. With its sharp blade, comfortable grip, and lightweight design, it is a great tool for any outdoor enthusiast.

Sheffield Sparrow Hammer Axe

This is a great bushcraft hammer to consider for your next camping trip.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around
• Razor-sharp blade that’s pre-sharpened and ready to use
• Military-grade 1680D sheath for protection from the elements

Cons

• The sheath could be better designed
• The handle could be more comfortable for extended use
• The blade could be thicker for heavier-duty tasks

This bushcraft hammer is perfect for camping, backpacking, and other outdoor adventures. The lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry around, and the razor-sharp blade is pre-sharpened and ready to use. The military-grade 1680D sheath provides excellent protection from the elements, making it a durable choice for any outdoor enthusiast.

One downside is that the sheath could be better designed, as it can be difficult to remove and re-sheath the axe. Additionally, the handle could be more comfortable for extended use, especially if you plan on using it for heavier-duty tasks. Finally, the blade could be thicker for more durability, but it’s still a great choice for most camping and backpacking needs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and compact bushcraft hammer for your next outdoor adventure, the Sheffield Sparrow Hammer Axe is a great choice.

QueanRaz Multitool Axe

If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable bushcraft hammer, the QueanRaz Multitool Axe is a great option.

Pros

• The compact design of this tool makes it easy to carry around, whether you’re camping, hiking, or just need a handy tool for daily life.
• With 14 different tools included in the set, you’ll have everything you need to tackle almost any job, from cutting branches to opening bottles.
• The stainless steel construction of the tool makes it durable and long-lasting, so you can rely on it for years to come.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the tool falls apart easily or breaks after only a few uses.
• The hatchet portion of the tool is quite small, so it may not be suitable for heavier-duty tasks.
• The nylon pouch that comes with the tool may not be as durable as some users would like.

Overall, the QueanRaz Multitool Axe is a solid choice for anyone in need of a versatile and compact bushcraft hammer. However, it may not be the best option for those who need a tool that can handle heavy-duty tasks or who require a more durable carrying case.

eSynic Bushcraft Hand Auger Wrench

If you are looking for a reliable and durable bushcraft hammer, the eSynic Bushcraft Hand Auger Wrench is a great choice.

Pros

• The sharp spiral and self-tapping screw design make it easy to punch holes quickly.
• Made of high-quality steel, this hand drill is reliable and sturdy enough for long-term use.
• The leather sheath and rubber hammer make it easy to carry and store.

Cons

• The cutting diameter is only 2.5cm, which may not be suitable for larger projects.
• The handle may be too short for some users.
• The leather sheath may not be very durable.

This bushcraft hand auger wrench is easy to use and suitable for a variety of green wood projects, such as fish traps, chairs, mallets, ladders, maple syrup taps, and most importantly, survival shelters. The cutting diameter of the scotch eye wood auger is 2.5cm, and the professional grinding for every spiral makes it easy to bore the perfect hole quickly.

The eSynic Bushcraft Hand Auger Wrench is made of hardened oxidized heavy-duty steel material, which prevents it from becoming blunt in a short time. The strong welding and sturdy design make this hand drill more durable for long-term use. The bottom of the drill is designed as a sharp tapping screw and a cutting point for a peg wrench, making it easy to use with or without a stick or wood handle.

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1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Rheinland Hatchet

The 1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Rheinland Hatchet is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, handmade hatchet that is perfect for bushcraft, backpacking, campfires, and throwing.

Pros

• Handmade in Germany using traditional techniques and materials
• C50 high carbon steel blade is exceptionally well-suited for cutting work
• Grade A American hickory handle is comfortable and durable

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some other hatchets on the market
• May require some sharpening out of the box
• Leather sheath could be of higher quality

This hatchet is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality, handmade tool that is both beautiful and functional. The Rheinland pattern blade is exceptionally well-suited for cutting work, making it perfect for everything from limbing branches to carving and other light and fine cutting work.

The C50 high carbon steel used in the blade is durable and long-lasting, ensuring that this hatchet will be a reliable companion for years to come. The grade A American hickory handle is comfortable and durable, making it easy to grip and use for extended periods of time.

While this hatchet is slightly heavier than some other models on the market, it is still lightweight enough to be easy to carry and use. Some users may find that it requires some sharpening out of the box, but this is a minor issue that can be easily remedied.

Overall, the 1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Rheinland Hatchet is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, handmade hatchet that is perfect for bushcraft, backpacking, campfires, and throwing.

Gerber Gear Downrange Tactical Tomahawk

If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable bushcraft hammer, the Gerber Gear Downrange Tactical Tomahawk is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The beveled axe head, hammer, and pry bar make it a multi-functional tool that can break through any barrier.
• Made in the USA with 420Hc Steel body and cerakote in desert tan with G-10 composite scales on the handle for a secure grip.
• The included MOLLE-compatible sheath protects the blade when not in use and readily attaches to your pack, standard webbing, or body armor.

Cons

• At 36 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than some other bushcraft hammers on the market.
• The plastic buttons attached to the MOLLE straps are not as durable as the rest of the tool.
• The handle, while comfortable to hold, may not be as durable as some other materials.

In my experience, the Gerber Gear Downrange Tactical Tomahawk is a reliable and versatile tool that’s perfect for any hunter, soldier, or tradesman. The beveled axe head, hammer, and pry bar make it a multi-functional tool that can break through any barrier, and the cerakote and G-10 composite scales on the handle provide a secure grip even in wet conditions.

The included MOLLE-compatible sheath is a nice touch and adds extra protection to the blade when not in use. However, the plastic buttons attached to the MOLLE straps are not as durable as the rest of the tool and may need to be replaced over time.

While the handle is comfortable to hold, it may not be as durable as some other materials. Additionally, at 36 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than some other bushcraft hammers on the market, which may be a consideration for some users.

Overall, the Gerber Gear Downrange Tactical Tomahawk is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile bushcraft hammer. With its multi-functional design and durable construction, it’s a great addition to any survival kit.

Forrest Tool MAX Multipurpose Toolkit

If you’re looking for an all-in-one bushcraft hammer, the Forrest Tool MAX Multipurpose Toolkit might be a good option for you.

Pros

• Includes 8 essential tools for camping, hunting, gardening, and off-roading
• Constructed with reliable material
• Easy to use and store in the included green attachment bag

Cons

• Might be too heavy for some users
• Some of the attachments have unfinished places
• The joining might be tacky to the touch

The MAX Multipurpose Toolkit by Forrest Tool is a heavy-duty tool that can be used for various outdoor activities. The kit includes an axe, a shovel, a rake, a hammer, a saw, a knife, a screwdriver, and a bottle opener. All of the tools are constructed with reliable material, making them durable and long-lasting.

The green attachment bag is compact and easy to carry, making it a great option for those who love to travel light. However, the weight of the kit might be too heavy for some users, especially if you’re planning to carry it for a long time.

Another downside is that some of the attachments have unfinished places, which might be a bit uncomfortable to use. The joining is also tacky to the touch, which might be a concern for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for an all-in-one bushcraft hammer that is reliable, durable, and easy to use, the Forrest Tool MAX Multipurpose Toolkit might be a good option for you.

WEYLAND Bushcraft Settlers Tool Survival Hand Auger Wrench

If you’re looking for a versatile bushcraft tool, the WEYLAND Bushcraft Settlers Tool Survival Hand Auger Wrench is a great choice.

Pros

• The scotch eye wood auger hand drill is easy to use and creates holes quickly.
• The peg maker is a useful addition to the tool, making it perfect for camping and bushcrafting.
• The tool is made from high-quality alloy steel, ensuring it is durable and long-lasting.

Cons

• The tool may be too heavy for some users to carry in their backpacks.
• The 1 inch wood auger drill bit may not be suitable for all tasks.
• The tool may require some practice to use effectively.

This tool is perfect for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking, backpacking, or bushcrafting. The scotch eye wood auger hand drill is easy to use and creates holes quickly, making it perfect for making emergency shelters or building primitive cabin tools in the wild. The peg maker is also a useful addition to the tool, making it perfect for camping and bushcrafting.

The tool is made from high-quality alloy steel, ensuring it is durable and long-lasting. However, it may be too heavy for some users to carry in their backpacks, and the 1 inch wood auger drill bit may not be suitable for all tasks. Additionally, the tool may require some practice to use effectively.

Overall, the WEYLAND Bushcraft Settlers Tool Survival Hand Auger Wrench is a great investment for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and needs a versatile tool.

Spec Ops Framing Hammer

The Spec Ops Framing Hammer is a great choice for those looking for a durable and reliable hammer for outdoor use.

Pros

• The hammer is 25% lighter than traditional hammers, making it easier to swing and control.
• The ballistically balanced head provides maximum striking power, making it perfect for heavy-duty tasks.
• The shock-absorbing MOA grip reduces sting and increases precision accuracy.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the finish of the hammer is not perfect.
• The claw may bend with heavy use.
• The magnetic nail starter may not work as well as expected.

The Spec Ops Framing Hammer is a well-built and sturdy tool that is perfect for outdoor use. The lightweight design and ballistically balanced head make it easy to control and use for extended periods of time. The MOA grip is comfortable and reduces sting, making it ideal for precision work. However, some users have reported issues with the finish and the claw bending with heavy use. The magnetic nail starter may also not work as well as expected. Overall, the Spec Ops Framing Hammer is a great choice for those looking for a durable and reliable hammer for outdoor use.

Gerber Ding-Dong Breaching Tool

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable bushcraft hammer, the Gerber Ding-Dong Breaching Tool is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The forged and machined head is great for hammering and ramming.
• The forged pry bar end is a nice touch.
• The molded fiberglass handle provides a comfortable grip.

Cons

• The tool is not one solid piece, but three (metal ends connected via fiberglass or some such).
• The fork end may come off after a few uses.
• It’s a bit on the pricey side.

This tool is perfect for those who need a reliable and sturdy hammer for their bushcraft needs. The forged and machined head is perfect for hammering and ramming, while the forged pry bar end is a nice touch. The molded fiberglass handle also provides a comfortable grip, which is important when using the tool for extended periods of time.

However, it’s important to note that the tool is not one solid piece, but three (metal ends connected via fiberglass or some such). The fork end may also come off after a few uses, which is a bit disappointing. Additionally, it’s a bit on the pricey side, so it may not be the best option for those on a budget.

Overall, the Gerber Ding-Dong Breaching Tool is a great choice for those who need a reliable and durable bushcraft hammer. It may have a few drawbacks, but its pros definitely outweigh the cons.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best bushcraft hammer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when making your purchase:

Material

The material of the hammer is a crucial factor to consider. A good bushcraft hammer should be made of durable material that can withstand tough outdoor conditions. Common materials include steel, titanium, and aluminum. Steel is the most durable but also the heaviest, while titanium is the lightest but also the most expensive.

Weight

The weight of the hammer is another important consideration. A heavier hammer can provide more force, but it can also tire you out quickly. A lighter hammer is easier to handle, but it may not provide as much force. Consider the weight that you are comfortable with and choose a hammer accordingly.

Handle

The handle of the hammer should be comfortable to hold and provide a good grip. Look for a handle that is made of non-slip material to prevent accidents. The length of the handle is also important. A longer handle can provide more leverage, while a shorter handle is easier to handle.

Head

The head of the hammer should be designed for the task at hand. A flat head is best for driving nails, while a claw hammer is best for removing them. Look for a hammer with a head that is easy to replace in case it becomes damaged.

Other Features

Some other features to consider include a built-in nail puller, a magnetized head for holding nails, and a textured grip for better control.

In summary, when choosing the best bushcraft hammer, look for a durable material, a comfortable handle, a suitable weight, and a head designed for the task at hand. Consider any additional features that may be helpful for your needs.