I prefer the Fiskars (also sold under the Gerber Brand) hatches and Axes. I would say go with a Hatchet if you are going to go with either. The advantage of the Fiskars is that all the weight is in the head and they travel well and as far as I can tell they are indestructible.

While on Trail crew I carried a Gerber (Fiskars made but Gerber branded) hatchet that was about 3 pounds, and I had found it to be as effective as a 5 pound standard ax when driving wooden spikes to make cross country ski trail.

Also during my time doing SAR in Alaska I often carried a hatchet (the same one as before) and it paid for itself often.

Do not get a super short handleed one, they seem to be more of "curio" in my opinion.

**Disclaimer** I am not in any way affiliated with Gerber or Fiskars, I am actually NOT a fan of Gerber tools.