Gerber Camp Axe review

S

SDDLUP

Joined
Jan 7, 2005
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I have used the Gerber Camp Axe for quite a few years and have found it to be the perfect backpacking companion. It is large enough for clearing small (6" or less) trees from a trail, and yet light enough not to be a burden.

I was at first concerned about the "plastic" handle but these concerns are unfounded. I recently saw a Fiskars video where they run over a similar axe with a piece of logging equipment, and actually bent the handle about 30 degrees, and yet the axe remained undamaged. Since Fiskars makes the Gerber axes I'm sure they are just as durable, but I have not yet run over it with the F-150!

Cutting has been very good, and I have been saved from having it dangerously fly away more than once by the swell at the end of the handle. This was due to my less than expert use of the axe, attempting to chop at too low an angle and having the blade glance off wildly. One thing I really like is that it trims off branches so easily. All of the weight is in the head where it should be so yo don't get tired swinging around unnecessary weight. Splitting with the Gerber Camp Axe has also been very good.

In the last few years I have also started to carry a small bow saw to deal with larger logs. I can saw through downed timber more quickly (and more safely) than using the axe. I can also saw larger logs for the fire and split them with the axe. You just don't get as good of a fire trying to burn round logs as you do split ones, especially when you are trying to get a fire started.

Unless you are an ouce counting freak, I'd say the Gerber Camp Axe is the ideal backpacking axe. Sure you could save a couple of ounces by getting a smaller version, but you would also loose some nice flexibility.

Item specifications - 17.5" O.A.L., 3.13" cutting length, 21.1 oz., forged steel head and Polyamide (TM) handle

Lifetime warranty
 
Gerber Camp Axe

Here ya go HD, from Gerber's site.

Their smaller Pack Axe performed well at a hatchet chop-off at PWYP last year, so this one ought to be a winner, too! Looks like they now offer their Gator Grip handle, at least on the smaller axe.
:)
 
Thanks for the review, I have been thinking of stocking these and this helps. At forst I inwardly groaned a little when a customer asked if I sell them. I know Gerber makes some nice stuff, but recently some of it has suffered in the name of thrift. I didn't realize that its actually forged steel and not just machined.

I have the Paxe included in the SUV set that comes with the Maglight and Saw. I would agree that a couple of ounces isnt going to hurt if you put it against the ease of use and leverage that a longer handle affords.
 
Just a comment. I have the Gator combo set (axe and a knife that slips into the handle) and it has worked out pretty well for me. I normally keep it with my kit in the car, but it has gotten a work out on several camping trips so far. I did need to sharpen both a bit right out of the box. Onyl complaint I have with it.
Mike
 
I have one of those in my truck. Had it for about 10 years. I didn't think I would like the plastic handle but it has survived some bad hits that would have cracked a similar wood handle. I wouldn't carry it hiking, but it goes camping with me as well as helps with the gradual civilizing of my 6 acres of Texas hill country.
It has been less used since I picked up a cheap kuhkri (which I occasionally take on hikes).
 
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