First Impressions of Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet promises to be a compact yet capable tool for the outdoors, blending the trusted name of Ontario Knife with a versatile design. As someone who has spent years relying on axes and hatchets in various tactical and wilderness scenarios, I was eager to see if this hatchet could live up to the brand’s reputation for ruggedness and functionality. I’ve chopped firewood in sub-zero temperatures, built shelters in dense forests, and even used hatchets for breaching and extraction exercises, and I approached this review with that practical experience in mind.
I had been searching for a hatchet that was compact enough to carry on my belt but still powerful enough to handle tasks like splitting small firewood and clearing brush. Many hatchets are either too bulky or lack the necessary heft for effective chopping. I chose the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet because of its balance between size, weight, and the promise of durable construction.
Upon unboxing, the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet felt solid and well-balanced. The canvas micarta handle provided a comfortable grip, and the black powder-coated carbon steel head looked ready for some serious work. Compared to my Gerber Backcountry Axe, which feels lighter and more geared towards backpacking, the Camp Plus Hatchet exudes a sense of robustness. I also considered the Estwing Camper’s Axe, but the full tang construction of the Ontario Knife seemed more promising for long-term durability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet appeared to be a well-made tool, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. I was excited to put it to work and see if it could handle the demands of camping, bushcraft, and even some light tactical applications.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial field test of the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet took place during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The area presented a variety of wood types, from soft pine to harder oak, ideal for evaluating the hatchet’s chopping ability. The weather was mild and dry, making for comfortable working conditions.
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet performed admirably when processing smaller pieces of firewood and clearing light brush. I did not feel I needed a lot of time to get used to the handling of the hatchet. I was slightly surprised by how well the relatively short 3-inch cutting edge bit into the wood, splitting smaller logs with ease.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet has proven to be a reliable tool. There are only minor signs of wear and tear on the powder-coated head, primarily from contact with harder woods and the occasional rock. The canvas micarta handle remains grippy and shows no signs of cracking or splintering.
The hatchet requires minimal maintenance; after each use, I wipe down the blade with a dry cloth and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. Compared to my experiences with cheaper hatchets, the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet has significantly outperformed expectations in terms of durability and edge retention. It provides a more trustworthy experience than my previous tools.
Breaking Down the Features of Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet
Specifications
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet features a 12-inch overall length, making it compact enough for easy carry. Its 4.25-inch black powder-coated carbon steel axe head includes a 3-inch cutting edge. The handle is made of gray canvas micarta, providing a secure and comfortable grip.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the hatchet’s performance and usability. The carbon steel blade ensures good edge retention and durability, while the micarta handle provides a robust and weather-resistant grip. The compact size makes it easy to pack and carry, but it still needs enough weight and cutting edge length to effectively chop and split wood.
Performance & Functionality
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet excels at tasks such as processing firewood, clearing brush, and building shelters. The hatchet’s balance and weight distribution make it easy to swing accurately, while the sharp blade bites deeply into the wood. The only notable weakness is its limited splitting ability on larger logs, which is to be expected given its size.
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet met my expectations for a compact and durable camp hatchet. It is not a replacement for a full-sized axe, but it’s an excellent tool for lighter tasks and situations where portability is key.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet features a full tang construction, which greatly enhances its overall strength. The canvas micarta handle is ergonomically shaped and provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet. The overall design is simple and functional, focusing on durability and ease of use.
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet is exceptionally user-friendly; even someone with minimal experience can quickly learn to use it safely and effectively. There is no learning curve involved in using this hatchet.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet is expected to last for many years with proper care. The carbon steel blade is relatively easy to sharpen and maintain, ensuring that it retains its cutting edge. The micarta handle is resistant to wear and tear, and is expected to last for a very long time.
The hatchet’s simple design makes it easy to clean and maintain. A quick wipe-down after each use and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet comes with a brown leather belt sheath, which is convenient for carrying the hatchet on your belt or pack. While there are limited customization options available directly from Ontario Knife, the aftermarket offers various replacement handles and sheath options. The lanyard hole offers the ability to add a paracord lanyard for added security.
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet is compatible with most standard hatchet sharpening tools and blade maintenance products. This versatility allows users to tailor the hatchet to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet
Pros
- Durable Construction: The full tang design and carbon steel blade ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Grip: The canvas micarta handle provides a secure and ergonomic grip in all conditions.
- Compact Size: The 12-inch overall length makes it easy to pack and carry.
- Excellent Value: At $73.28, it offers great performance for the price.
- Versatile Tool: Capable of handling a variety of tasks, from processing firewood to clearing brush.
Cons
- Cutting edge is shorter than other hatchets, which reduces its ability to chop large items.
- Leather sheath is not very rugged and will not last long if not properly maintained.
Who Should Buy Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet?
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet is perfect for campers, hikers, and bushcrafters who need a reliable and portable tool for processing firewood and clearing brush. It is also well-suited for survivalists and preppers who want a durable and versatile hatchet for their emergency kits. The light-weight design makes it an effective tool for those that want a hatchet for on the go tasks.
This product should be avoided by those who need a heavy-duty axe for splitting large logs or felling trees. Those tasks require a larger, heavier tool.
A must-have accessory for the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet is a quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. A more durable Kydex sheath would also be a worthwhile upgrade for those who plan on using the hatchet in harsh conditions.
Conclusion on Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet
The Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet is a well-designed and durable tool that offers excellent performance for its size and price. Its compact size, comfortable grip, and robust construction make it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. The $73.28 price point is well justified considering the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
I would personally recommend the Ontario Knife Camp Plus Hatchet to anyone looking for a compact and versatile camp hatchet. It is a valuable tool that will provide years of reliable service. Get yours today and experience the quality and performance of Ontario Knife!