The Axe: A Camping Necessity

Where will you camp this summer? Yellowstone, the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee or the Kettle Moraine in Northern Wisconsin? Will you take your RV or opt for the rough and tough camping experience of sleeping in a tent? No matter how or where you camp out, there are certain tools that are a necessity.

One of these is the axe, which is a multi-purpose tool. Use it to cut rope, wood branches or small trees. You can cut stakes to stabilize a tent or tarp. Then that same axe can serve as a hammer to pound those wooden stakes into the ground. You can cut three long branches to make a tripod to place over the campfire and use it to dry out clothes. The height keeps the clothing above the fire to prevent scorching them as they dry out.

An axe can also serve as a weapon for protection when you hike in a remote area. A compact size axe fits easily into your backpack. One portable, lightweight version comes in 3 pieces that extend to 13"; yet it fits into a 6" canvas belt pouch when disassembled. It's named "The 3-Piece Heavy-Duty Commando Hatchet Kit" for good reason. See for yourself how sturdy it is by visiting www.survivalistemporium.com