If you're a keen bushcrafter and want to have an axe that's tough and strong, you should consider investing in a good quality model. Barco make a range of bushcraft axes, and they are typically high quality. They also come unsharpened and unfinished, so you can grind them yourself to suit your needs. Another good option is Husqvarna, a large well-known manufacturer whose products vary in quality and price, but are generally decent value for money.

Helko Black Forest Woodworker

This Helko Black Forest Woodworker Axe has a full-grain leather sheath and an ounce of ax guard oil. Made in Germany, the ax is drop-forged and has a high carbon steel head. The quality and pragmatism of the Germans is evident in the construction of this axe. Its ambidextrous design is the most logical choice for bushcrafting.

The Black Forest Woodworker is the flagship piece of Helko's collection. It is lightweight and remarkably versatile, making it the perfect packing tool and axe for the outdoorsman. The black finish of the blade is remarkably sharp and suited to light splitting work. The 4 1/2-inch blade is perfect for splitting small trees and for making kindling. The Black Forest Woodworker is one of the best bushcraft axes on the market today.

Gransfors Hunter's Axe

The Gransfors Hunter's Axer is a well-balanced axe with a traditional pattern and a long, curved handle for powerful chopping. Developed in collaboration with survival expert Lars Falt, the axe is designed for limbing trees in the traditional manner. This axe also features a splitting hatchet with a concave blade at the bit that's excellent for splitting branches and wood.

The Gransfors Bruk Hunter's Axe is a great choice for bushcraft and hunting. Its thin poll is designed for skinning, and the handle is crafted with circular grooves to provide a secure grip even when wet. The axe also received the Excellent Swedish Design Award. Its design was influenced by a Swedish hunting axe, and the company has developed a wide range of different models to address the shortage.

Helko Scout

The Helko Scout axe is the perfect bushcraft tool for those who want to cut, split, and cleave. Its compact size makes it ideal for carrying and storage, and it features an easy-to-clean finish. The blade is not as thick as some axes, so it may not be as effective as a field knife. However, this doesn't mean you should skip this tool for bushcraft use.

The Scout is the most versatile of all the axes in the Helko line. Its compact design makes it perfect for backpacking or camping. The head weighs only one kilogram, which means you can use it for even the heaviest work without worrying about it being too heavy. The axe also comes with the standard Helko Werk sheath. However, the Classic Scout may not be the best choice for the more demanding camper.

Council Tool Boy's Axe

If you're looking for a bushcraft axe, the Council Tool Boy's Axe is a great choice. Its head is slightly larger and weighs about a quarter of a pound, while its handle measures 24 inches long. While it might not be the most precise axe available, it's still a great choice for clearing brush or felling small trees. It is also sturdy and durable, making it perfect for a garage or camping trip.

This axe comes unsharpened, but you can easily sharpen it yourself with a file or course sharpening stone. Although it's not as sharp as a Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe, it has a much thicker edge than its Nordic counterpart. While the axe is not as lightweight as the Scandinavian Forest Axe, it offers the same level of chopping performance.