Not tool related but wanted some feedback.

[ringzero]

In my opinion and based on my "experience" (I use that term loosely), there's no good reason to waste the energy needed to split larger pieces of wood in a "survival" situation.

I certainly agree with that.  I haven't split many logs with an ax since Boy Scouts, which was too many years ago to contemplate.

In very wet or snowy conditions when you really need to get a fire going, splitting downed branches or hanging squaw wood will usually get you sufficient dry wood to easily start that fire.  Splitting branches of less than 4 inch diameter accounts for most of the splitting I've done over the years.

I don't agree with that.  I'm not going to explain why, because I don't want to start a self defense debate.  I'll happily accept the fact that you have your opinion and I have mine

Actually, knife versus ax for self defense is not a matter about which I have a strong opinion or conviction.

Realistically, I have little faith in sucessfully defending myself with either knife or ax against a big, determined, strong opponent - either human or animal.

Either knife or ax is better than an empty hand for defense, but both pale in comparison to the lightweight pistol I carry along outdoors.

(Before someone points this out:  Yes, I am aware that a mere .45 pistol may be worse than useless against a big, determined bear.)

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[Grant Lamontagne]

Realistically, I have little faith in sucessfully defending myself with either knife or ax against a big, determined, strong opponent - either human or animal.

That's probably the most sensible thing I have ever heard someone say when having a self defense discussion!  The other good point to be made is that in such a situation, you rarely have a choice of anything.  Grab what you can when you can and use it, whatever it is.  And if there's nothing to grab, then start clawing, biting etc.  Remember, you'll probably only get one chance so you might as well make it count!

Def