Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 Review

Taking the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 for a Spin

The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 isn’t just another axe; it’s a compact, lightweight tool designed for those who appreciate portability and functionality. Marbles, a name synonymous with outdoor gear, has crafted this axe for tasks ranging from splitting small firewood to clearing brush. Its vibrant orange fiberglass handle and relatively light weight make it stand out.

What drove me to the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 was the need for a reliable, packable axe for backpacking and camping. I wanted something smaller and lighter than my full-sized splitting axe, but still capable enough to handle essential camp chores. The promise of its manageable size and sturdy construction piqued my interest.

Upon unboxing, the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 immediately impressed me with its compact design. The orange fiberglass handle felt surprisingly sturdy, and the axe head appeared well-shaped. It felt balanced in my hand, a promising sign for efficient chopping.

Compared to other axes I considered, like the Estwing Sportsman’s Axe and the Fiskars X7 Hatchet, the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 offered a compelling blend of affordability and portability. While the Estwing boasts a single-piece steel construction, it’s heavier. The Fiskars is lighter but felt less durable.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 seemed like a good fit for my needs, but the true test would be how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it primarily for processing firewood for our campfire and clearing some small branches around our campsite. The axe performed admirably in dry conditions, easily splitting small logs and chopping through branches up to a couple of inches in diameter.

The axe’s light weight made it easy to swing for extended periods without excessive fatigue. It was surprisingly effective despite its smaller size. The Orange Fiberglass Handle provided a secure grip, even when my hands were slightly damp from sweat.

However, I did notice that the axe head seemed to deflect slightly when encountering knots in the wood. This required more deliberate aiming and a slightly slower swing to avoid glancing blows.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use on various camping and hiking trips, the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 has held up surprisingly well. The head has remained securely attached to the handle. The Orange Fiberglass Handle shows no signs of cracking or splintering.

There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the axe head from regular use, but these don’t affect its performance. Maintaining the axe is simple; I occasionally sharpen the blade with a file and wipe down the handle to remove dirt and grime. The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 is not a show piece! It is a working axe designed for the outdoor world.

Compared to my previous hatchet, which had a wooden handle that required constant oiling to prevent drying and cracking, the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 is a welcome upgrade. It is much easier to maintain and feels significantly more durable.

Breaking Down the Features of Marbles Yankee Axe MR660

Specifications

The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 boasts an 800-gram head, making it lightweight yet capable. Its Orange Fiberglass Handle provides a strong and durable grip, crucial for safety and control. The axe has an overall length of 16 inches, ideal for packing and maneuvering in tight spaces.

Weighing in at 2.46 lbs, it strikes a balance between portability and chopping power. These specifications are important because they dictate the axe’s primary purpose: a lightweight tool for tasks that don’t require a full-sized axe. The weight and length make it easy to carry on a backpack, while the head weight provides enough force for splitting small logs and clearing brush.

Performance & Functionality

The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 excels at tasks suited for a smaller axe. It’s perfect for splitting kindling, clearing small branches, and light chopping. It’s not designed for felling large trees, but it handles smaller tasks with ease.

Its strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and comfortable grip. The main weakness is its limited chopping power compared to larger axes. However, for its intended purpose, it meets expectations and offers excellent value.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 is good for its price point. The materials are durable. The weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.

There’s no real learning curve; it’s easy to pick up and use. The Orange Fiberglass Handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even for users with larger hands.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 should last for years. The fiberglass handle is resistant to rot and cracking, and the axe head is made from durable steel. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional sharpening and cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 doesn’t come with many accessories. Most users likely will purchase a sheath separately for safe carry and blade protection. Aftermarket sharpening stones or files are also recommended to maintain the blade’s edge.

There are limited customization options available, as it’s a relatively simple tool. However, some users might opt for a different handle grip or a custom sheath. The axe is generally compatible with universal axe sheaths and sharpening tools.

Pros and Cons of Marbles Yankee Axe MR660

Who Should Buy Marbles Yankee Axe MR660?

The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 is perfect for campers, backpackers, and anyone needing a lightweight, portable axe for basic tasks. It’s also a great addition to a bug-out bag or survival kit.

This axe is not ideal for those who need to fell large trees or perform heavy-duty chopping. People requiring a more powerful axe should invest in a larger, heavier model.

A must-have accessory is a quality sheath to protect the blade and ensure safe carrying. A sharpening stone or file is also essential for maintaining the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Marbles Yankee Axe MR660

The Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 is a reliable and affordable tool that delivers excellent performance for its size and weight. Its durable construction, comfortable grip, and versatile functionality make it a great choice for anyone needing a portable axe.

At a price of $29.95, the value proposition is excellent. It offers a significant upgrade over cheap, poorly made hatchets without breaking the bank.

I would definitely recommend the Marbles Yankee Axe MR660 to anyone looking for a lightweight, portable axe for camping, backpacking, or survival purposes. It’s a well-designed tool that provides excellent value and reliable performance. Grab one and be prepared for your next outdoor adventure!