Does anyone take an axe on their tours?

[samid]

If not, how do you manage campfires?

I like campfires but it is not always easy to get one going without an axe. This year I'm seriously thinking of taking something like a Wetterlings Axe Small Axe with me - after all it is only 550 grams, a nice campfire is worth it what do you all think?

Cheers.

 

[Ticktockmy]

If not, how do you manage campfires?

I like campfires but it is not always easy to get one going without an axe. This year I'm seriously thinking of taking something like a Wetterlings Axe Small Axe with me - after all it is only 550 grams, a nice campfire is worth it what do you all think?

Cheers.

A small folding saw is much more useful, and does not leave a pile of unsightly wood chippings

http://www.surplusst...ge.php/pID/2848

 

[samid]

Good idea, never thought of that - thanks!

 

[Dayvo]

I second the saw choice!

'Tis a bit more discrete, too!

 

[Dan B]

I'd be worried about it getting damaged or going out of tune. And not sure my playing would be well-received by everyone who might hear it

 

[snorri]

a nice campfire is worth it what do you all think?

Nothing is further from my thoughts on a cycle tour.
I left home partly due to the constant nagging from my parents to keep the fire fuelled, catch the flying sparks etc., why on earth would I want to have a campfire to sit down beside outdoors and get a wet bum?

 

[ufkacbln]

A fender stratocaster is a bit fragile, but I know of a guy who travels with a Tuba!

 

[samid]

why on earth would I want to have a campfire to sit down beside outdoors and get a wet bum?

Ok, if you ask for a practical reason - I found that a campfire is excellent at keeping midges away (I'm touring Scotland, mostly ).

 

[yashicamat]

I'd be worried about it getting damaged or going out of tune. And not sure my playing would be well-received by everyone who might hear it

I'm glad I'm not the only one who automatically thinks that when an axe is mentioned! I have a Baby Taylor which would be suitable for cycle touring if kept in a big waterproof bag, but I doubt the humidy fluctuations would do it much good! I have seriously considered taking it before now though . . .

 

[snorri]

Ok, if you ask for a practical reason - I found that a campfire is excellent at keeping midges away

Yes a good reason, but I have seldom camped in midgie territory.

 

[Brains]

A Wetterings axe may be good, Gransfors axes are however the Campag of axes.
http://www.gransfors.com/htm_eng/index.html

The other item we have found very good is a hand chain saw
http://www2.westfalia.net/shops/gar...sories/hand_chainsaws/52256-hand_chainsaw.htm

To be fair, never taken either on a cycle tour, but that is more to do with not touring in suitable places to make a fire.

 

[samid]

A Wetterings axe may be good, Gransfors axes are however the Campag of axes.
http://www.gransfors..._eng/index.html

The other item we have found very good is a hand chain saw
http://www2.westfali...nd_chainsaw.htm

To be fair, never taken either on a cycle tour, but that is more to do with not touring in suitable places to make a fire.

Thanks. Gransfors "Mini Hatchet" looks awesome, quite a bit lighter than the Wetterling I linked to - 370 grams vs 550! Pricey but nice...

 

[billflat12]

Not enough swing with them stubby axes, machete would be the ideal tool as long as your discrete, chippigs great for starting your fire too.

 

[andym]

Ok, if you ask for a practical reason - I found that a campfire is excellent at keeping midges away (I'm touring Scotland, mostly ).

I hope I'm stating the obvious, but this is purely for cutting up dead fallen wood?

 

[hubbike]

in s america many cycle tourers carry a machete which is great for fire wood and opening coconuts! and more besides.... i dont see why you shouldnt take an axe if you think it'll be of use...might help bang in tent pegs too. suppose guitar could do that too, or you could use it as a fire. llike hendrix