SZCO WatchFire 10” Camping/Survival Hatchet

Curated from 57 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: March 3, 2025

SZCO WatchFire 10” Camping/Survival Hatchet

Brand: SZCO
Price: $15
Snoop Score:
7.3
Sentiment
10.0
Popularity
10.0
Technical
6.6

Snoop's Take

The WatchFire 10” Black Camping/Survival Axe-Head Hatchet by SZCO is a versatile outdoor tool designed for camping, hunting, and hiking. With its durable 3cr13 stainless steel blade and ergonomic rubber handle, this hatchet provides a reliable solution for heavy-duty tasks in the wilderness. User feedback highlights the comfort and efficiency of its grip, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. One satisfied user noted, "That thing is an absolute wood splitting beast," showcasing its effectiveness on softer woods. The combination of a robust design and a secure grip ensures that this hatchet can handle various outdoor challenges with ease. Based on positive consumer sentiment and its practical design, the WatchFire hatchet is recommended for anyone in need of a reliable camping tool. Its strong performance in wood splitting and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any outdoor gear collection.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Axes & Hatchets

Same with the maul. Speaking of which, why the hell is the head not solid from front to back?

Positive Feedback

Good camping axe? Any recommendations on camping axes that will hold up to regular use?

Insightful Chatter
Product
7.3
SZCO WatchFire 10” Camping/Survival Hatchet
Wood Splitting and Kindling
4 / 10
Camp Setup and Shelter
4 / 10
Survival and Emergency
2 / 10
Throwing and Recreation
3 / 10
See how this compares to all Axes & Hatchets

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Comfortable and efficient grip
Same with the maul. Speaking of which, why the hell is the head not solid from front to back?
Effective on softer woods
That thing is an absolute wood splitting beast. Someone stole mine off the block last year and I can’t justify buying a new one since I have four others. But goddamn do I miss it

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Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Axe-throwing as a viable business with beer
I'm still in awe that giving people high ABV beers and axes has been a viable business model
Fun experiences at Bury the Hatchet
Bury the Hatchet is a blast.
Discussion on preferences for large axes
Taking you knife shopping, you can pick one. The selection and displays at Scheels is top notch!
I want that big fucking axe
My wife got my UTX-85 there and had it engraved for me. She's a wonderful wife. ❤️
Mine bought me a Cold Steel Black Sable folder... A kingly gift indeed!
Preference for heavier tools in some situations
It all depends on the wood your burning and the size of the wood you're splitting.
Discussion on preferences for axe designs
Handle on the axe looks terrible. Your hand should be able to slide on the handle for more power.

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Discussion on axe usage strategies
The offset move in axe mode and the counter in sword mode alone are game changers, since the switch axe has always been about consistent damage and pressure.
at 0 gauge after full release slash, if you Triangle it does the third axe combo which immediately gives you enough gauge to morph slash to sword mode.
I didn’t even know it did the third axe hit which gives a lot of gauge, especially in power axe mode.
The sword counter alone has brought this up to the best switch axe ever for me.
Recommendations for axe forums
Axes have durability considerations that don’t always apply to knives.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Recommendations for camping axes vary widely
Good camping axe? Any recommendations on camping axes that will hold up to regular use?
fiskars anything. really the best option for price point. just gotta sharpen em occasionally, i got a 400/1000 grit block i use on my hatchet and maul that works great
Gränsfor Bruk makes great axes! My partner uses the Scandinavian Forest Axe. Pricey but very reputable, gorgeous, and reliable.
Something from a hardware store with a hickory handle. Wood diffuses vibration from getting to your hands, and the handle can be replaced if it’s ever damaged.
Instructions delay axe-throwing fun
a few beers and once you can choose what to throw it gets way more fun.
Discussion on high-end axe pricing and value
I was kind of expecting more for the price.
They are really nice.
And they perform just like a good axe is supposed to.
The handle isn't straight with the head, the grain isn't nearly as good, the profiling on the edge is far worse, etc etc.
Recommendations for smaller hatchets for hiking
Need an axe or hatchet for hiking. This any good?
Maybe ? How much do they weight ? What size axe are you trying to build ?
This. The difference between 1¼lb, 2¼lb and 3½lb may not seem like much on paper but 4 miles into your hike it'll become naggingly apparent.
1-1.5lb head is what you’re looking for. Look around for different profiles.
Different sharpening techniques discussed
Once he's created a new bevel he works the edge a bit to apex it with the file.

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
General appreciation for the subreddit community
Hatchet, Axe & Saw
Best subreddit ever! I may or may not have shed a tear just now…
BYOB enhances the fun at axe-throwing venues
Bury the hatchet, pay for the extras the hatchet is easily the most boring to throw.
Discussion on the physics of splitting wood
Lower weight and better ergos mean higher speed and greater accuracy = quicker splitting/driving.
Makes sense. Also, magic.

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