Let’s Dive into Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall is a compact, seemingly versatile axe designed for survival and outdoor tasks. Mtech, a company known for producing budget-friendly tools, aims to offer a tool that’s both portable and functional. It promises a capable axe for various tasks, from chopping small branches to prepping kindling.
My search for a reliable, packable axe for camping and emergency preparedness led me to the Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall. I needed something more substantial than a hatchet but lighter and more maneuverable than a full-sized axe. I wanted a tool that could handle basic camp chores without weighing me down on the trail.
Upon unboxing, the axe felt surprisingly lightweight. The plastic handle has a decent grip, and the cord lanyard adds a touch of security. The blade looked reasonably sharp, although not razor-sharp out of the box.
Compared to my Gerber Pack Hatchet, the Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall has a longer handle, offering more leverage. It is also shorter than a Fiskars X11 splitting axe that I own. The Mtech felt like a compromise between the two, which suited my needs.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The lightweight construction raised some concerns about durability, but the overall design seemed promising for the price point. Only real-world testing would reveal its true capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for processing firewood – splitting small logs and creating kindling. The axe performed reasonably well on softer woods like pine and cedar.
The plastic handle did feel a bit slippery when wet from rain. However, the cord lanyard helped maintain a secure grip. I found the axe easy to swing and control.
One minor issue arose; the blade seemed to dull slightly faster than expected after prolonged use on seasoned hardwood. Otherwise, the first use was generally positive, particularly considering its budget-friendly nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, the Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall has shown some signs of wear, but remains functional. The black coating on the blade is scratched, revealing the stainless steel underneath. I haven’t seen any significant rust.
The edge requires sharpening more frequently than my higher-end axes. I found the plastic handle surprisingly resilient, with no cracks or breaks despite moderate abuse. Cleaning is straightforward.
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall does not outperform my premium axes in terms of chopping power or edge retention. However, its lightweight design and affordability make it a decent option for light-duty tasks and emergency preparedness. It has exceeded my expectations at this price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall
Specifications
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall boasts a 6.5-inch stainless steel blade with a thickness of 3.5-4mm. The overall length is 17.5 inches. The handle is made of plastic and features a black finish and cord lanyard.
The stainless steel blade provides a balance between durability and rust resistance. The plastic handle keeps the weight down. A lighter axe makes it easier to carry and swing for extended periods.
Performance & Functionality
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall is adequate for chopping small branches, splitting kindling, and performing light camp tasks. It will not replace a full-sized axe for heavy-duty wood processing. It does have reasonable performance for its size and intended use.
Its strengths lie in its portability and ease of use. The weaknesses are the relatively soft steel and less-than-ideal grip in wet conditions. It largely meets expectations for an inexpensive camp axe.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The plastic handle is functional but lacks the refined feel of a wood or composite handle. The axe feels relatively balanced in hand.
There’s a minimal learning curve. Most users will find it easy to pick up and use immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall is not designed for heavy use, but should last for several years with proper care. Regular sharpening is required. The plastic handle can be wiped clean.
Repairing the handle could be challenging if it were to break. The blade can be re-profiled if it sustains damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall comes with a cord lanyard and, according to some vendors, a nylon sheath. The lanyard provides a secure grip. The sheath protects the blade during storage and transport.
There are limited customization options available. Replacing the handle would be difficult due to its molded design. The blade could be wrapped with paracord for added grip and protection.
Pros and Cons of Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Lightweight and compact design enhances portability.
- Stainless steel blade resists rust and corrosion.
- Adequate for light-duty tasks like kindling and small branches.
- Simple design requires minimal maintenance.
Cons
- Plastic handle lacks the durability and comfort of higher-end materials.
- Blade requires frequent sharpening compared to premium axes.
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty wood processing.
Who Should Buy Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall?
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall is perfect for casual campers, backpackers seeking a lightweight option, and those building emergency preparedness kits. It’s also a good choice for individuals new to using axes who want an inexpensive tool to learn with. The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall is great for users who want to have a tool that can get the job done while being compact and affordable.
Those needing a heavy-duty axe for felling trees or splitting large logs should skip this product. Likewise, individuals who prioritize premium materials and exceptional edge retention would be better served by a more expensive axe.
A sharpening stone or file is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. Paracord can be added to the handle for improved grip and a more secure hold in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall
The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall is a budget-friendly axe that offers decent performance for light-duty tasks. While it doesn’t compete with high-end axes in terms of power or durability, its affordability and portability make it a reasonable option for casual users. The Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall is an ideal starter axe for users who want a compact, affordable option.
The price is justified given its intended use and the materials employed. It provides acceptable functionality without breaking the bank.
I would recommend it to individuals seeking an inexpensive and lightweight axe for camping, backpacking, or emergency preparedness. It’s a practical tool that gets the job done without unnecessary frills.
Consider adding the Mtech Mt-Axe14 Axe 17.5″ Overall to your outdoor gear collection if you’re looking for a capable and affordable axe for light-duty tasks. You might be surprised by its usefulness.