Using a survival tool in the wake of a disaster is possibly the best test anyone could devise.
How did the axe perform?
SOG Specialty Knives & Tools provided the axe used in this review.
The SOG Camp Axe, shown here with its blade sheath, is a dependable companion for both work and survival.
When you are in the forecast cone of a Category 5 hurricane, you get very nervous.
Preparation can alleviate a bit of the stress.
For Hurricane Milton, a SOG Camp Axe made it into my emergency kit.
The official forecast track for Hurricane Milton showed a trajectory toward densely populated areas. The author prepared for the worst, ensuring the SOG Camp Axe was in his emergency kit.
The Camp Axe arrived the week before the hurricane.
I told my boss I hoped I would not have to use it, but I did.
The fledgling companys initial focus was to construct a reproduction of the storiedMACV-SOG fighting knifefrom the Vietnam era.
The SOG Camp Axe rests on Hurricane Milton storm debris. The author found its size easy to use during hurricane cleanup.
In addition to knives, SOG makes multi-tools, machetes, flashlights and axes.
I have been pleased with each of their offerings and use them to this day.
I unpackaged the Camp Axe and nodded approval of its qualities.
Crafted from 2Cr13 stainless steel, the SOG Camp Axe proved both durable and reliable. The author tested it thoroughly in demanding conditions.
True axes are by nature two-handed chopping implements.
And tomahawks are fighting axes or hatchets.
On handling the Camp Axe, I liked its potential defensive capabilities as well as its utility.
Featuring a durable glass-reinforced nylon handle, the SOG Camp Axe strikes a balance between grip and strength.
It maneuvers quickly in the hand for strikes and slashes.
The highly curved beard or underside of the head lends well to hooking motions.
Its low carbon content means it does not hold the finest edge, but it is easy to resharpen.
The small hammer on the SOG Camp Axe’s poll is a unique and practical feature. The author used it effectively to repair a weathered pergola before the storm hit.
The head of the Camp Axe is bolted to the oval glass-reinforced nylon (GRN) haft.
A steel ferrule or collar sits below the bolts for additional stability.
The handle is straight with aggressive grooves near the butt.
With precise strikes, the author hammers a loose nail into place using the SOG Camp Axe. The smooth-faced hammer proved invaluable for quick fixes before the hurricane.
It gave me a good grip while hacking or hammering.
The GRN is rigid with no tendency to bend whatsoever.
The oval shape helps to keep the axe indexed while using either end of the head.
Holding the SOG Camp Axe, the author demonstrates its balanced feel and sturdy handle. Its glass-reinforced nylon handle provided excellent grip even in wet conditions.
I tried it out as I shored up my old wooden pergola on the deck before the hurricanes arrival.
I used the hatchet head to effectively whack them back in place.
The small size of the Camp Axe made it maneuverable around the boards.
The author’s SOG FastHawk is shown here securely mounted to the back of his SWAT vest, ready for rapid deployment. Its lightweight design made it a practical tool for breaching and tactical operations.
Being on a ladder with a sharp tool means being careful.
I made sure to leave the sheath on when hammering!
It is not made for carrying the axe, but it does leave the hammer end exposed.
Side by side, the SOG Camp Axe (right) and FastHawk (left) showcase their distinct designs and purposes. The author found the Camp Axe even more versatile for camping and survival needs.
The curve in the head kept the axe in place.
The Camp Axe would be an easy addition to my loadout at just 16 ounces.
I like the idea of having a hatchet and hammer with me.
Massive piles of storm debris await removal, illustrating the scope of Hurricane Milton’s destruction. The author used the SOG Camp Axe extensively, praising its durability and ease of use during cleanup.
Sometimes things need a good pummeling.
I have a SOG FastHawk tomahawk that I bought years back.
The Camp Axe has a smaller overall footprint.
The author used the SOG Camp Axe to clear fallen branches and assist neighbors in recovery efforts.
The Camp Axe is a better product for my forays.
I carried the SOG FastHawk on my SWAT armor years ago.
The Camp Axe is slightly smaller, and the hammer could see use in light breaching.
The guys who doubted a small hammer had a place on the team were convinced.
Where It Counts
As Hurricane Milton bore down on us, we decided to ride it out.
When it neared the Tampa Bay Area, the storm wobbled to the south.
We were spared the full force of the cyclone.
Despite that, our coastal county suffered a second devastating hit in less than two weeks.
The damage was massive and widespread.
I began clearing debris in my and my neighbors yards.
I cut through many oak limbs to get them to a manageable size for disposal.
I used the hammer end of the axe to free my friends trampoline which was wrapped around a tree.
The Camp Axe was welcome to tote around during the days of challenging work.
The Camp Axe is part of the companys continued refinements aimed at outdoor, LE, and military users.
