Kukrax products are renowned for what the company itself calls “insane practicality”, and there is certainly some truth to this.
As they are quick to observe, every few weeks (or at least, so it seems) a new super steel gets unveiled. But to them, it’s hard to beat the practicality of properly heat-treated 1075. They have a point. Tool steels in the 10XX class have worked wonders forever. Just because something new came along doesn’t mean they’re now defunct.
And, in fact, in many ways these steels are more practical than ever because they remain affordable whereas super steels command (mostly) a pretty penny.
Add to this the fact that many tools, such as shovels and axes, are still forged from tool steels in the 10XX class, such as 1045, 1095, and in this case, 1075, and you can start to see the shape of that staying power.
That will actually be the focus of this article, which will take a closer look at the Kukrax Pack Axe with a walnut handle and a partial cord wrap.
Big Wins for a Small Pack Axe
Before you look at this Kukrax product and think “it’s a gimmick,” give it a chance.
Yes, the profile is a bit new-age-y, but it is rooted in practicality, in keeping with the brand positioning.
First, consider the overall design of the axe. It is not a head hung on a wooden haft. It is one stock of steel, integrating the head with what can only be called the tang here, even though that is not technically what it is.
The end result is a one piece axe that effectively cannot break. You will never need to rehang the head.
The profile is also practical; it has a bit of a beard, lengthening the bit of the axe for both slicing and chopping tasks.
While a lightweight axe like this, and with this profile, would not be good at splitting wood, it would be good at light carving and chopping. This would make it ideal for carving camp tools or furniture or for breaking down and packing out large harvests, hence the name.
The head is situated forward of the grip, increasing leverage when the axe is swung as well, so you get that benefit as well. The walnut handles don’t just add a pleasant touch here; they also offer a sure, non-slip grip when the axe is swung.
The partial cord wrap farther up near the head is also a nice touch as it will improve traction when you need to choke up on the axe for detail work. Plus, if you’re ever in a pinch and need some cordage, just unwind this and there you have it.
And, to go back to the steel, it is a hard-working, low-cost tool steel that’s more than capable of tolerating severe abuse. It’s also soft enough that resharpening it in the field shouldn’t be a major concern. It is an unpretentious alloy that will work as hard as you do, and its only shortcoming is that it will rust if you are not cautious.
Other value-added features of this pack axe include a lanyard hole and an included leather mask, so you get more than what you pay for here.
Where to Get One (Or Explore Other Kukrax Products)
If you’re interested in knives and tools (like pack axes) that are made from vetted raw materials and which will perform under pressure, then you should visit The Knife Connection. Not only do they carry Kukrax products like the camp axe mentioned here, but they also represent some of the top brands in their corner of the industry, such as LT Wright, Wenger, ESEE, KA-BAR, Becker, and countless others. Visit their website for more information or get in touch with them directly if you need assistance.
For more information about Knife Handles and Great Eastern Cutlery Please visit: The Knife Connection.
