Fire is an indispensable resource when facing Mother Nature’s extreme cold temperatures. However, fires require fuel to burn (and, if you want to get technical, oxygen). And, for the majority of circumstances, fuel for fires comes in the form of wood.
Yes, you can purchase ready-to-use-and-burn wood from local hardware and food stores, but these seasonal and sometimes hard-to-find sources just won’t cut it when you need a great amount to get you through a long stay in cold climates. In addition, buying a cord or two from a firewood supplier might seem a costly waste of money to those who prefer to literally take matters into their own hands and gather their own firewood.
If you’re determined to do it yourself, this guide can be handy for you. From axes and sharpeners to log-splitters and kindling-creators, you’ll need reliable equipment on hand to get the job done both quickly and efficiently. If you use one or more of the options we offer here, you’ll enjoy a fire’s gift of heat, light, the ability to cook your food, emotional comfort and dozens of other benefits.
So, chop and split away today and build a pile of wood, as well as peace of mind for tomorrow and the rest of your soon-to-be cold season.
Gerber Gear Bushcraft Axe
Photos courtesy of the manufacturers
Overview
This axe provides all the features needed for rugged outdoor use: a solid, onepiece axe head, hammerhead back, an overstrike guard and a rubber grip that allows a firm hold, no matter the environmental conditions. However, this axe takes preparedness up several levels because of its included waterproof compartment. Store tinder, matches, a mini lighter or any small survival gear, and rest assured that everything will stay dry and secure throughout your time in the wild. It all fits in the tubular storage stick that fits within the axe handle.
Specifications
• Overall length: 26.25 inches
• Blade length: 6.87 inches
• Rubber overmold grip
• Overstrike guard for added durability
• Waterproof gear storage stick with 9 feet of paracord
MSRP
$84
URL
GerberGear.com
Gerber Gear Downrange Tomahawk
Overview
Multitasking is the backbone of this chopper. Utilize its sharp head for splitting logs or creating kindling. And when you’re in an urban surrounding, step it up with an integrated pry bar and hammerhead breaching tool. This tomahawk features a 420HC steel body. Its G10 handle won’t break or falter, whether you’re in the wilderness or in your own backyard, preparing a log for your lounge-around pit or meal-cooking barbecue. It includes a MOLLE-compatible sheath and a limited lifetime warranty.
Specifications
• Triple-purpose axe head
• G-10 handle with integrated scales for a solid grip
• Pry bar end for both large and small jobs
• Easy-carry handle built into the axe-head
• Created from durable 420HC steel
MSRP
$285
URL
GerberGear.com
Gerber Gear Pack Hatchet
Overview