Fortunately everyone got away with our limbs in one piece, partly because I tactically retrieved the hatchet and cut the firewood and shelter poles myself. My poor hatchet didn't fare so well, though. My buddies managed to nick the edge really badly, all in literally no more than a few minutes of sloppy work. It took me a long time to dress the edge on my grinding wheel and water stones today. Now I'll think twice before lending any kind of tool ever again.

It is very sobering to think of all the minor inconveniences that we encountered on such a short hike even though we all had at least a bit of previous outdoor experience... And how quickly such inconveniences could have escalated into a serious situation with just a little stroke of bad luck.