[caligatrux]

I suspect if, in an emergency landing..the doors can’t open, or the escape chutes won’t deploy..or to punch open a window..

Good thoughts, but you could have one of those window breakers for the windows and a crowbar for the door. While both still dangerous tools, at least they aren't axes.

And can you really hack your way out of a plane with an axe?

[thackney]

And can you really hack your way out of a plane with an axe?

Yes.

Most crash axes, although built to double as fire axes, are more along the lines of a hatchet in size, ranging between 16” and 20” long with a hatchet or tomahawk sized head. The smaller size allows them to be stowed easily and makes them easier to use inside the confines of an aircraft. Several types of FAA approved crash axes exist, but the average size envelope remains the same.