Quote Originally Posted by Wolfen View Post
Bruks makes the best. Watterling is second and believe it or not Condor makes some decent hatchets. You just need to sharpen them. A good hatchet is fully the equal or maybe a bit better at chopping than a big knife, but it is much worse at batoning or fine work. Most people who take a hatchet or axe, end up taking a small blade as well, which is an excellent combo. I personally like the gransfors bruks hunting axe with 20 inch handle.
If I had to buy a "new production" axe, it would be a Council. Specifically, a 2 1/4lb Dayton Pattern boy's axe.

Wetterlings are nice if you have the money.

For a hatchet, it would be an Estwing. I prefer the leather handle.

Vintage? Take a look at the Axe Me thread. Lots of good quality axes can be had for very affordable prices.

Been camping since the early '70s (DAMN, I feel old) and never batoned a piece of wood with a knife.

As far as YTs to watch. This is the best place to start. I still watch these just for the amusement factor and wealth of information.