Best Knives and Axes for Camping

All-purpose knives often come with a cost: weight. But this do-it-all everday carry blade only costs you 1.8 ounces in your pocket or bag. That’s thanks to the proprietary handle material and a custom alloy blend. It’s our go-to for everything from packages to campfire whittling projects.

You want an axe that lasts? Try finding one with a history that beats Hults Bruk’s. The Swedish blade maker has been around since 1697, which means they know a thing or two about splitting wood. American hickory coated with linseed makes up the handle of this chopper, while the hand-forged blade is made with care by actual blacksmiths, not machines.

Tim Leatherman’s iconic first design created a new category in knives and is beloved by DIYers and campers alike. Newer models may be lighter and easier to use, but nothing beats the sturdy, this original heirloom-quality package that will serve you at home and in the field.

With a head fashioned from the same steel used in jackhammer tips and a removable hickory handle (not shown) this axe is as sturdy as they come and can be used for light lumber cutting, kindling splitting, and, yes, target throwing.

Made in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, West Knifework’s does-it-all Japanese-style kitchen knife boasts a stacked fiberglass epoxy handle, super sharp S35VN high carbon steel, and an image of the Teton Mountain range etched into the blade.