Best Bushcraft YouTube Channels (5-Axe Skills!)
Have you ever held a perfectly crafted axe, the weight balanced just right, the steel gleaming, and felt a connection to something ancient and powerful? For me, that connection comes from the hickory handle. Hickory, specifically, is a wood that has been prized for centuries for its incredible strength, shock resistance, and just the right amount of flex. Think about it: native peoples used hickory for bows, tool handles, and even as a fuel source. Its tight grain and density make it incredibly durable, able to withstand the repeated impacts of splitting wood or felling trees.
I remember the first time I tried splitting wood with a poorly made axe. The head wobbled, the handle stung my hands with every swing, and I ended up more frustrated than productive. Switching to an axe with a well-crafted hickory handle was a game-changer. Suddenly, the energy transferred efficiently, the axe bit deep, and the task became almost meditative. That experience taught me that the right tools, combined with the right knowledge, are essential for success in bushcraft.
And that’s what we’re diving into today: the best YouTube channels that embody that spirit of resilience, skill, and connection to the natural world. These creators are the modern-day equivalent of the seasoned woodsman, sharing their knowledge and passion with a global audience. They don’t just show you how to do something; they teach you why it works, and that’s what sets them apart. Let’s get started!
Section 1: The Rise of Bushcraft on YouTube
Bushcraft. It’s more than just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. A way to reconnect with nature, learn self-reliance, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around us. And let’s be honest, in a world increasingly dominated by technology, there’s something incredibly appealing about learning how to thrive in the wilderness.
Why is bushcraft so popular right now? Well, I think it’s a combination of factors. There’s a growing desire for authenticity, a yearning to escape the digital noise, and a practical need to be prepared for whatever life throws our way.
YouTube has played a massive role in the rise of bushcraft. Think about it: traditionally, these skills were passed down through generations, from father to son, mother to daughter. But now, anyone with an internet connection can access a wealth of knowledge from experienced practitioners around the globe.
The numbers don’t lie. A quick search for “bushcraft” on YouTube reveals thousands of channels and millions of videos. According to Google Trends, search interest in “bushcraft” has steadily increased over the past decade, with significant spikes during times of uncertainty and crisis. A 2023 report by Statista showed that outdoor recreation, including bushcraft-related activities, saw a significant surge in participation, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. This translates directly into increased viewership and engagement with bushcraft content on YouTube.
But what makes a good bushcraft video? Is it just about showing off cool gear or building elaborate shelters? In my opinion, it goes much deeper than that. The best channels focus on teaching fundamental skills, explaining the underlying principles, and promoting responsible and ethical practices.
And that brings us to the concept of “5-Axe Skills.” What are they? Well, in my book, they represent the core competencies every aspiring bushcrafter should master:
- Felling: Safely and efficiently taking down trees.
- Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree.
- Bucking: Cutting a log into manageable lengths.
- Splitting: Preparing firewood or crafting materials.
- Shaping: Using an axe for carving, tool-making, and construction.
These skills aren’t just about brute force; they require precision, technique, and a deep understanding of wood and tools. The channels I’ll be highlighting excel at teaching these skills, breaking them down into manageable steps, and demonstrating them in real-world scenarios.
Section 2: Criteria for Choosing the Best Bushcraft YouTube Channels
So, how do we separate the wheat from the chaff? With so many bushcraft channels out there, it can be tough to know where to start. Here’s what I look for when evaluating a channel:
- Content Quality: This is paramount. Are the videos well-produced, with clear audio and visuals? Is the information accurate and reliable? Does the creator demonstrate a genuine understanding of the subject matter? Poorly produced content is a major turn off.
- Educational Value: This is what truly sets a channel apart. Does the creator simply show you what to do, or do they explain why it works? Are they teaching fundamental principles that can be applied in various situations? I’m looking for in-depth explanations, not just superficial demonstrations.
- Viewer Engagement: Is the creator actively engaging with their audience? Do they respond to comments, answer questions, and foster a sense of community? A strong community is a sign that the channel is providing value and building trust.
- Creator’s Expertise: What are the creator’s qualifications? Do they have years of experience in the field? Have they received formal training? While formal qualifications aren’t always necessary, they can provide a level of credibility and assurance.
- Practical Demonstrations: Bushcraft is a hands-on skill. The best channels show you how to do things in real-world scenarios, not just in a controlled environment. I want to see them building shelters in the rain, starting fires in the wind, and navigating challenging terrain.
- Community and Knowledge Sharing: Bushcraft is a community-driven activity. The best channels encourage collaboration, sharing of knowledge, and mutual support. They often feature guest experts, collaborate with other creators, and promote ethical and sustainable practices.
Ultimately, the best bushcraft YouTube channels are those that empower viewers to learn, grow, and connect with the natural world in a responsible and meaningful way.
Section 3: Top 5 Bushcraft YouTube Channels for 2025
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Based on the criteria I’ve outlined, here are my top 5 bushcraft YouTube channels to watch in 2025, with a particular focus on how they teach those essential “5-Axe Skills”:
Channel 1: Mors Kochanski – Northern Bushcraft
- Introduction: While Mors Kochanski sadly passed away, his legacy lives on through his incredible body of work. He was a legendary Canadian bushcraft instructor, author of the classic “Northern Bushcraft,” and a true pioneer in the field. His channel, often managed by others now, features archival footage and demonstrations of his techniques.
- Content Style: Mors’s content is straightforward, no-nonsense, and focused on practical skills for survival in harsh environments. He emphasized efficiency, resourcefulness, and minimizing your impact on the land.
- Axe Skills Showcase: Mors was a master of the axe. His videos on splitting wood, building shelters, and crafting tools with an axe are legendary. He taught the importance of proper technique, axe maintenance, and safety. One video in particular, demonstrates how to build a quick and efficient shelter using only an axe and natural materials.
- Community Feedback: Mors’s work is highly respected within the bushcraft community. Viewers praise his clarity, his deep understanding of the natural world, and his commitment to ethical practices. His teachings have inspired countless individuals to learn and practice bushcraft skills.
Channel 2: Dave Canterbury – Self Reliance Outfitters
- Introduction: Dave Canterbury is a well-known figure in the survival and bushcraft world. He’s a former military survival instructor and the founder of the Pathfinder School. He brings a no-nonsense, practical approach to his teachings.
- Channel Focus: Dave’s channel covers a wide range of topics, including survival skills, bushcraft techniques, wilderness medicine, and gear reviews. He emphasizes the importance of mental preparedness, adaptability, and having a solid foundation of skills.
- Axe Skills Showcase: Dave’s videos often feature demonstrations of axe skills, including felling trees, splitting wood, and crafting tools. He emphasizes the importance of proper technique, safety, and choosing the right axe for the job. For example, his video on “Axe Sharpening Techniques” is a must-watch for anyone who wants to keep their axe in top condition.
- Popular Content & Viewer Interactions: Dave’s gear reviews are particularly popular, as he provides honest and unbiased assessments of various products. He also actively engages with his audience, answering questions and providing feedback.
Channel 3: Ray Mears – Woodlore
- Introduction: Ray Mears is a British bushcraft expert, author, and television presenter. He’s known for his calm demeanor, his deep knowledge of the natural world, and his passion for sharing his skills with others.
- Channel Niche: Ray’s channel focuses on traditional bushcraft skills, wilderness survival, and natural history. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the environment, respecting nature, and living in harmony with the land.
- Axe Skills Emphasis: Ray’s videos often feature demonstrations of axe skills, including felling trees, splitting wood, and crafting tools. He emphasizes the importance of using the right tool for the job, maintaining a sharp edge, and working safely. His series on “Essential Bushcraft Tools” provides a detailed overview of the different types of axes and their uses.
- Community Discussions: Ray’s content generates thoughtful discussions about the ethics of bushcraft, the importance of conservation, and the value of connecting with nature.
Channel 4: MCQBushcraft
- Introduction: MCQBushcraft is run by a seasoned bushcrafter who goes by MCQ. He focuses on practical skills and real-world applications.
- Content & Teaching Style: MCQ’s channel stands out for its detailed tutorials and emphasis on improvisation. He teaches viewers how to make the most of limited resources and adapt to changing conditions.
- Axe Skills Highlight: MCQ’s videos on axe techniques are particularly informative. He covers everything from basic splitting to advanced carving. One video that stands out teaches how to build a survival shelter using only an axe and a tarp.
- Community Impact: Viewers appreciate MCQ’s straightforward approach and his ability to break down complex skills into manageable steps. His channel has inspired many to try bushcraft for themselves and to develop their own skills.
Channel 5: Joe Robinet Bushcraft
- Introduction: Joe Robinet is a Canadian bushcraft enthusiast who documents his solo adventures in the wilderness. His channel offers a realistic and unfiltered look at the challenges and rewards of living off the land.
- Content Focus: Joe’s channel focuses on solo camping, shelter building, fire starting, and foraging. He shares his successes and failures, providing viewers with valuable insights into the realities of bushcraft.
- Axe Skills Focus: While not exclusively focused on axe skills, Joe’s videos often feature him using an axe for various tasks, such as splitting wood, building shelters, and clearing trails. His video on “Winter Camping Shelter Build” showcases his axe skills in a challenging environment.
- Engagement Metrics: Joe’s channel has a dedicated following, with viewers appreciating his authenticity, his down-to-earth personality, and his willingness to share his experiences.
Section 4: The Future of Bushcraft on YouTube
Looking ahead to 2025, I see some exciting trends emerging in the bushcraft YouTube community.
First, I think we’ll see more integration of technology. Imagine virtual reality (VR) simulations that allow you to practice axe skills in a safe and controlled environment. Or augmented reality (AR) apps that overlay information onto the real world, helping you identify edible plants or navigate using the stars.
Second, I expect to see more collaboration between creators and viewers. Think interactive livestreams where viewers can ask questions and receive real-time feedback, or collaborative projects where creators and viewers work together to build shelters or complete other bushcraft tasks.
Third, I believe there will be a greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices. As bushcraft becomes more popular, it’s crucial that we promote responsible land use, minimize our impact on the environment, and respect the natural world.
Finally, I think we’ll see more diversity in the bushcraft community. As more people from different backgrounds and cultures discover bushcraft, they’ll bring their unique perspectives and skills to the table, enriching the community as a whole.
Conclusion
The bushcraft YouTube community is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn about wilderness skills, connect with nature, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. The channels I’ve highlighted are just a few examples of the many talented and dedicated creators who are sharing their knowledge and passion with the world.
These channels don’t just teach skills; they inspire a way of life. They remind us of the importance of self-reliance, resilience, and respect for the natural world. They empower us to step outside our comfort zones, challenge ourselves, and discover our own potential.
So, if you’re ready to embark on your own bushcraft journey, I encourage you to explore these channels, learn from their experiences, and develop your own “5-Axe Skills.” The adventures that await you are limited only by your imagination. Pick up that axe, head into the woods, and discover the magic of bushcraft for yourself!
