I need a new "hand axe", small one.... ?

I've been using a cheapo hatchet I borrowed from my SisIL that she got from the HD.
I had to put a decent edge on it, but it works great. Prolly weighs a couple pounds.
Swingin' a 4 lb. sledge/hatchet for more than a few minutes one handed would get old.

 

I use a Gerber hatchet. I think it's called the camp axe.

 

Husqvarna makes some nice axes and hatchets, and they don't break the bank.

 

If you want a fancy hatchet that is a wicked tool, I like this one: Gransfors Bruk Wildlife Hatchet. Gränsfors Wildlife Hatchet | Gränsfors Bruk
For are more pedestrian tool, I really like Council: For a very short handle, try the 4" Dayton Pattern Miner's Axe with 20" handle Council Tool, American Manufacturer of High Quality Hand Tools - Product Detail - 4# Dayton Pattern Miner's Axe w/ 20" Handle This is a little extreme for me, so I got the 26" handle. I love it.

 

A year-plus back, I got a Council "Jersey-Pattern" 4-lb axe from Bailey's for $25 and change delivered.

Basic working axe, with genuine hickory handle, 35" overall. A few stripes of marker-paint, all it needed. Choke up for doing kindling.

I've not been impressed with head-shape of some Estwing axes- much too chubby cheeks. Ground 'em down for a bud. He likes that.

 

For just a small hatchet, I love the my Tru Temper Tomahawk.

For splitting small stuff for kindling. I use the Estwing Fireside Friend.

 

thing is with the fireside friend, you don't really have to swing it just kind of pick it up and drop it

 

Good point HDR.

 

Don't know anything about small axes, but I found that the best thing to use for splits that won't come apart is a loppers for cutting branches.

 

I ended up picking up an Estwing... haven't used it yet, but looks like it will do the trick.