Man isn’t meant to stay indoors — our weekly “Trekking” column can attest to that. It’s a column dedicated to the adventurer inside of all of us, the one pining to ditch the office humdrum for a quick surf session or seven-week jaunt in the Grand Tetons. One day we may highlight an ultra-light stove and the next a set of handmade canoe paddles. Life doesn’t just happen inside the workplace, so get outside and live it.
The axe is a mainstay of camping—and why wouldn’t it be? It’s been one of the most simplistic and resourceful tools on the planet for more than a millennia, allowing you to chop wood, split timber, and even defend yourself from enemies and the elements if need be. That said, it’s not an invention that typically gets an overhaul of any kind. Meet the Outland Equipment Multi-Mission Axe ($465+).
Related: The Half Hatchet lets you cut wood with class | Summer Outdoor Gear Guide
Designed by Christopher Aiston — chief of Outland Equipment and gentleman who forged a name for himself designing breaching tools for firefighting — the Multi-Mission Axe is an American-made utility axe intended for more than just building a campfires. The versatile axe is available in either a 15 or 19-inch configuration, each of which touts S7 steel construction and dons a 3.9-inch blade ripe for chopping. Moreover, the back end of the blade doubles as a modular hammer for pounding stakes and nails, while the bottom of the handle serves as a seatbelt cutter with an extended reach for quick access into vehicles. Built-in hex-nut tools also rest in both the head and the convenient pry feature on the bottom, so you can make the most of what’s available.
Both models, the aptly-titled 1501 and 1901, even offer multi-position G10 grips for comfort and easy handling in the field. The optional sheath and blade guard only make it safe for stowing when you decide to put your backyard antics and wannabe rescue missions on the back burner for the time being — which likely won’t be long.
