Hults Bruk Jonaker
Best hatchet
Our take A hatchet is overkill for most backpacking trips, but it’s sure nice to have one while car camping or canoeing. And the Jonaker is just light enough to hike with if needed. But light doesn’t mean flimsy; its solid steel head is hand-forged, which increases its density to make it sharper and more durable. At 9.4 inches it’s the perfect length for splitting kindling—short enough for fine control but long enough to generate force. A leather sheath is included.
Trail cred “After days of trail clearing and chopping wood for my cabin stove, I was shocked the Jonaker didn’t need sharpening,” our tester says. 1 lb. 8 oz.