Review by Megan Paulson
The James Brand – Hatchet
Whether you’re a modern adventurer or avid outdoorsman, the TJB Hatchet should be a top item on anyone’s gifting list. TJB collaborated with Adler, a German company with over 100 years of hatchet and ax-making mastery, so the TJB is made in Germany and high quality and powerful given its compact size. Chopping kindling for our fireplace and wood for our camp firepit was done with ease – the Hatchet has a great swing weight and super sharp blade making it easy to crush through outdoor tasks. It looks great too – a green accent stripe compliments USA-sourced hickory, all-steel blade, black handle and leather sheath. Plus the TJB Hatchet comes packaged in an all-wood gift case with unique clasps and the TJB x Adler story, making it feel even more elevated out of the box. You won’t even need wrapping paper for this outdoor staple!
The James Brand – Ellis Multi-Tool
Rivers, trails, and DIY projects are no match for the Ellis Multi-Tool which successfully tackled any task I asked of it in both the extreme outdoors and during everyday activities. The James Brand created a sleek design with the Ellis, so it’s small and easy to carry along in your pocket but didn’t disappoint when needed to carry out big tasks. On the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, a scenario that demands constant maintenance of gear, the Ellis Multi-tool came in handy for tightening oars, cutting rope and fixing my tent in a windstorm. Its razor-sharp, stainless-steel blade and pry bar provided quick fixes on a hiking trip, and excelled on the job site when I needed to pry nails and tighten screws. The clip that attaches to your pants or pack is handy, while the tool’s scissors provide extra utility for precise cuts. I’ve even found myself using the serrated blade for cutting small branches for fires. These tools are designed for adventure, whether in the wild or on the job, and are built to last. The most difficult decision you have to make is what color best matches your vibe.
