Outdoor Edge Wood Devil

The name and graphics on this under-$40 camp axe are ridiculous. At the same time, the tool’s overall utility, particularly at only 10” long and 1.2lbs, is silly. In the same way a ninja is simply playing around. Capable well beyond the lighter weight, the choke-up grip handle turns a quick slicer into a competent shaver. While the one-piece coated stainless steel head carries a useful 4” blade in front, the butt is nearly useless even though promoted as a hammer. Enter the handle butt for high-impact tasks. Testers found more applications over time, only disappointed that the 3Cr13 blade won’t spark fires. Otherwise, and with an ABS and rubberized TPR handle, this one brings the heat without losing its cool. While supervision is important, this small axe gets younger outdoor lovers taking responsibility for camp chores.  And even pulls them away from smartphones for at least 30 minutes.

Pros: Light and compact. Solid grip construction. Multi-purpose blade.

Cons: Tough to hammer. Lots of work to dissect larger-diameter wood. Silly graphics.

Tester Comments: “So easy to start using. Larger hands might find the molded grip on the small size but most campers will find Wood Devil is easy to control. This is part of Outdoor Edge’s Survival Series and I’m putting it in my trunk as one element of being prepared.”

Key Attribute: Size

Best For: Emergency preparedness, camp use along with group backcountry trekking with its compact size covertly stowing away in a day-hike or multi-day packs