Originally Posted By: Alex
I vote for a good long handle axe (hatchet is heavier) as a single choice for northern woods. In fact, I don't see a single survival task a knife can do which an axe can't. A knife is simply lighter, holds the edge better, and handier.

I agree with your assessment of the tools, but personally that type of axe isn't something I'd ever bring into the woods with me when travelling by foot; its too large & heavy for my liking. For that reason, I personally give the edge to a good knife (i.e., its something I'd actually bring with me).
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Victory awaits him who has everything in order — luck, people call it. Defeat is certain for him who has neglected to take the necessary precautions in time; this is called bad luck. Roald Amundsen