I use a hatchet more for skinning than the bone work, although I will split the sternum with either a hatchet or use it to pound a machete or utility knife through the sternum. If I pull the hide off it gets to my hands quickly, but if I hammer it off with the hatchet no wear and tear on the hands. For the same reason I will use a meat hook to pull the hide off. A saw or loppers is used to split the pelvis on older or larger game back at camp.
This is why the Granfors Bruks hunters hatchet has rounded edges to use for skinning.
