The only problem with most gloves and using hammers or axes is that they don't grip the tool at all and in the end you fatigue your hands much quicker, it also makes it much easier for the tool to rotate in your hands when it hits. That means that there may be a general introduction between your axe and your feet. The only gloves that I would use is what some blacksmiths use with their hammers, those cotton gloves that have rubber grippy surfaces on them.

Axes should be as sharp as a knife only with experienced users, generally you don't swing your knife around your head with a stick attached. Remember in preparing for a possible emergency/survival situation learn to become proficient with your tools or only take the ones that you are proficient and safe with. In other words make sure you can hit what you are aiming at every time, even when you are tired and your hands are weak.

Most good axes (Gransfors etc.) are sharp enough for the average joe, straight out of the wrapper. I just wouldn't sharpen them like a sharp knife or razor until you have had the axe dive at your feet a few times and you are sure that it won't happen again. Most people use really bad techniques with axes and are an accident waiting to happen, especially when splitting wood.

Remember to keep your feet well away from the axe, keep the handle stopping as close to horizontal as possible at first, and the blade of the axe as close to the line of your swing as you can. Also keep good control on the rotation of the axe head as it hits the tree. Always remember to be aware of where it will go if the head glances off the tree and make sure that you aren't there.

If you are splitting wood make sure that the axe handle will stop in a horizontal position and if you miss, that it won't hit your feet or legs, this is one of the most common axe injuries. Keep the end of the handle down and you are much safer.

Cheers,
Mac.