Estwing Hunter's Axe - 14.25" Forged Steel Hatchet with Gut Hook & Shock Reduction Grip

*The following review provides somewhat explicit details of the intended use of the Estwing Sportsman Hunter's Axe while field dressing large game.I had the recent good fortune to be able to try the Estwing Hunter's Axe while field dressing a mature buck. The gut hook made quick work of the hide once I got the angle right. I noticed that if I tried to force the gut hook through the hide by tugging on it, it would load up with hair and I'd have to start over. Slow and steady definitely worked best here! The gut hook performed flawlessly when moving through the muscles of the abdominal wall because there was no hair to contend with.I also used the gut hook on the cartilage between the ribs and sternum to open up the chest cavity. It only took about three or four solid pulls to advance from the bottom to the top of the rib cage. The handle was very easy to grip and any wet blood that I had on my hands did not seem to impair the purchase of my hand on the handle. Next, I used the axe side to split the pelvic bone. One solid strike and I was through without any over-penetration of the blade into the bladder, colon, etc.Both the axe and gut hook arrived reasonably sharp out of the box. I used a fixed-blade knife for detailed work inside of the chest and abdominal cavity (cutting the trachea, diaphragm, etc), but the axe was sharp enough to cut through muscle and connective tissue to expose the pelvic bone with relative ease. Overall, I am impressed with how this tool performed in the field and I am very happy with my purchase.The only reason that I deducted one star from this review is due to the poor quality of the factory sheath. The axe states on the handle that it is proudly made in the USA. The inside of the sheath is stamped "Made in Taiwan." The lining of the sheath is thin, cheap, pleather-like material that will not hold up to rigorous use. Also, being made of Cordura-like fabric, I feel like there is no way to get it completely clean after re-sheathing the used axe in the field. The axe was too cumbersome to carry in-hand while trying to drag the deer out of the woods…re-sheathing seemed like the only logical way to go.The pocket with the sharpening stone is a nice feature for emergency purposes. However, I maintain my blades at home prior to heading out. I can't foresee an instance where I would utilize this in the field, unless I were to drop the axe on a rock or were away on a hunting trip for an extended period of time.One personal touch that I added was a simple lanyard made from highly reflective 550 cord. This axe is "full tang" and comes pre-drilled for a lanyard at the base of the handle. If I accidentally drop this all-black, non-reflective axe in the woods, I can hopefully retrace my steps with a flashlight and have a better chance of recovering it thanks to the lanyard.If I could offer one suggestion to Estwing with regard to this axe, it would be to provide a solid Kydex sheath that could be easily hand-washed for sanitary reasons. This would make it a PERFECT tool for field dressing large game. Currently (as of 01/2016), I am unable to find anyone offering an aftermarket Kydex sheath option for sale.

Bought this to support an American Company who makes in the USA. The protective cover is well crafted and solid. The other extra included in the purchase was the sharpening stone. Well worth the money paid for the product. This is for our new farm and it very well built. I have not tried it yet but cannot wait to.

Gut hook is pretty good (will need frequent sharpening), axe is perfect for splitting sternum and pelvis. Solid tool.

great product I have used this on 3 deer so far splits the pelvic bone quickly.

Works great, right out of the package if needed. It doesn’t hurt though, to make sure that the sharpness of both blades, axe bit and gut hook, meets your specs.

Love this hatchet I'm a competitive thrower and it's great light wait sharp as a razor. Estwings are great because of there one peace design they will never brake.

I expect a lot from Estwing. Just didn't look like their normal quality. Had some runs in the black paint. Finish just did not look like quality had orange peeled looking finish. I buy Estwing because they are made in the USA. Ironically the sheath is marked made in Taiwan?? I would gladly pay more for a sheath made in the USA! Make the sheath with some quality! A nice leather sheath should be at least an option. Come on Estwing just do it right...

It came rusty. 90$ for a rusty piece of metal? I want a refund or a replacement immediately

I like it