>>2050517I rotate between a 19" pack axe and a folding saw (my leatherman also has a saw if I choose to not bring it).
If you're camping for more than two nights and you'll be processing a lot of wood you may as well bring a bigger axe (19-24") to make it easier on yourself. Hatchets work fine for most trips, but if you're going on extended trips or camping in the cold bring something closer to a boys axe. The weight difference is negligible compared to how much more capable it is. I stopped bringing my hatchet completely and just stick with my small axe because of it.
>>2050519>>2050532Sometimes you need tools to process and cut deadwood, especially in winter or wet conditions. When it's sub 25f fire becomes crucial and you need a lot of wood to keep it through the night. Bringing an axe lets you
>Process larger trees into usable/manageable logs, thus giving you access to more wood>Split logs and wet wood so you can access the dryer insides>Speeds the overall wood collection process immenselyIn summer making a fire is easier and maybe less important, and you can probably get away with the branches on the ground. I still think even then having an axe or saw just makes it easier on yourself. I always end up using mine.
