Hatchets

Hatchets are compact axes designed for chopping small branches, splitting wood for kindling and preparing firewood, making them ideal for camping, building shelters and quick garden jobs. A good hatchet combines a sharp blade and durable material for controlled power and balance with each swing. For help choosing between a hatchet, axe or splitter, our guide to choosing the right felling tool for the job explains which tool is best for which job.

A hatchet is shorter and more compact, used for chopping, kindling and small logs, while an axe has a longer handle for extra leverage and swing power when felling trees or splitting bigger logs. Many people have both for practicality: hatchets for portability and control, axes for heavy felling and chopping jobs. To compare axe features and sizes, you can browse the full Cyclone felling tools collection.

The right handle should feel comfortable in your hand so you can maintain control during extended use, with shorter models offering great portability for camping and firewood preparation and longer handles adding leverage and power for chopping wood and logs. 

Whatever length you choose, keeping the edge sharp is vital for safe, precise cutting, and axe and hatchet sharpeners are designed to help you maintain a sharp blade for years of regular use.