SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk Review

Let’s Dive into SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk is a tool designed for those who venture into the wild, promising a lightweight and versatile companion. Marketed by SOG, a name respected for its tactical and outdoor gear, this tomahawk aims to blend chopping power with survival functionality. Its reflective paracord-wrapped handle, integrated fire starter, and multi-purpose blade are designed to make it a standout tool.

I was drawn to the Survival Tomahawk by a need for a lightweight, multi-functional tool that could handle camp tasks and offer a degree of self-reliance in emergency situations. I needed something that could process firewood, clear brush, and serve as a backup tool should my primary knife fail. The integrated fire starter and hammering head were particularly appealing.

My first impression upon unboxing was that the Survival Tomahawk felt surprisingly light, considering its overall size. The nylon handle with paracord wrap felt secure, if a bit less substantial than some other tomahawks I’ve handled. The blade’s hardcased finish looked durable, and the included sheath was a welcome addition.

I considered the Estwing Sportsman’s Axe and the Gerber Downrange Tomahawk, both excellent tools in their own right. I chose the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk due to its lower weight and integrated survival features, which seemed ideal for backpacking and situations where weight is critical. The price point also made it a more attractive option for a secondary tool.

I was cautiously optimistic about the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk. While I appreciated the design and features, I was eager to see how it would hold up to real-world use and whether it could truly deliver on its promise of being a reliable survival tool.

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Real-World Testing: Putting SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it primarily for processing firewood and clearing small branches around the campsite. The Survival Tomahawk performed adequately in dry conditions, splitting small logs and chopping through branches with relative ease.

I experienced no significant issues during the first use, although the edge of the blade seemed to dull slightly quicker than I expected. The handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the integrated fire starter worked reliably after a few practice strikes. The lightweight design was appreciated during the longer hikes to and from the campsite.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use on various camping and backpacking trips, the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk has proven to be a decent, but not exceptional, tool. The hardcased blade finish has held up well, showing only minor scratches and wear. The nylon sheath has also remained intact, although the stitching shows some signs of fraying.

The blade requires more frequent sharpening than some of my other axes and tomahawks. The paracord handle wrap has become slightly frayed in certain areas, requiring occasional tightening. The Survival Tomahawk has outperformed some cheaper hatchets I’ve used in the past, but it falls short of the performance and durability of higher-end options.

Breaking Down the Features of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk

Specifications

• Blade Length: 6.5 inches. This offers a decent chopping surface for a tomahawk of this size, making it suitable for processing smaller pieces of wood.
• Blade Material: Steel. The specific type of steel is not specified, which raises concerns about its hardness and edge retention capabilities.
• Serrated: Straight Edge. The straight edge is ideal for chopping and splitting, but lacks the versatility of a serrated edge for sawing through fibrous materials.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. This appears to be an error in the specifications, as the Survival Tomahawk features a fixed blade.
• Overall Length: 21 inches. This provides a good balance of reach and maneuverability.
• Included Accessories: 1 Blade. This refers to the single blade on the tomahawk head.
• Handle Material: Nylon. The nylon handle provides a lightweight and durable grip, but may not be as comfortable as wood or composite materials.
• Handle Finish: Cord Wrapped. The cord wrap adds extra grip and provides a source of paracord in survival situations, but can fray over time.
• Blade Finish: Hardcased. This finish provides corrosion resistance and helps to protect the blade from scratches and wear.
• Sheath Material: Nylon. The nylon sheath offers basic protection for the blade and allows for easy carry, but may not be as durable as leather or Kydex.
• Handle Color: Black. A practical color choice that hides dirt and wear.
• Additional Features: Hardness 47-49. This Rockwell hardness rating indicates that the steel is relatively soft, which means it may be easier to sharpen but will dull more quickly.
• Weight: 1.22 lbs. This lightweight design makes it easy to carry for extended periods.
• Color: Black/Black, Black. The tomahawk comes in various shades of black for a tactical appearance.
• Sheath: Yes. The inclusion of a sheath is essential for safety and protection of the blade.

Performance & Functionality

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. It can chop through smaller branches and split small logs, but struggles with larger or denser pieces of wood. The integrated fire starter works well, providing a reliable source of ignition.

The blade’s relatively soft steel means it requires frequent sharpening, especially after heavy use. The hammering head is a useful addition for driving tent stakes or other tasks, but it’s not particularly large or effective. Overall, the Survival Tomahawk meets expectations for a lightweight, multi-purpose tool, but doesn’t excel in any particular area.

Design & Ergonomics

The Survival Tomahawk has a balanced design that feels comfortable in hand. The lightweight construction makes it easy to swing and control, even for extended periods. The nylon handle with paracord wrap provides a secure grip, even when wet or wearing gloves.

There is a slight learning curve involved in using the fire starter, but it’s relatively easy to master with a bit of practice. The sheath is functional but lacks some of the refinements found in higher-end sheaths, such as multiple carry options or retention straps.

Durability & Maintenance

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk is reasonably durable for its price point, but it’s not built for heavy-duty use. The hardcased blade finish and nylon handle should withstand normal wear and tear, but the relatively soft steel blade is prone to chipping and dulling.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional sharpening and tightening of the paracord handle wrap. The blade can be easily sharpened with a standard sharpening stone or file.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk comes with a basic nylon sheath and an integrated ferrocerium fire starter. There are limited customization options available for this tomahawk. You could replace the paracord handle wrap with a different color or type of cord.

It is not compatible with most aftermarket tomahawk accessories. The SOG sheath is specifically designed for the Survival Tomahawk, and may not fit other models.

Pros and Cons of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk

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Who Should Buy SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk?

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk is perfect for: casual campers, backpackers seeking a lightweight tool, and anyone looking for an affordable, multi-purpose survival tool. It’s a good option for those who prioritize portability and versatility over heavy-duty chopping power.

Who should skip this product? Experienced woodsmen or professionals who require a more robust and durable tomahawk for demanding tasks. Those who prefer high-quality steel and superior edge retention should also consider other options.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone or file is essential for maintaining the blade’s edge. Replacing the paracord handle wrap with a more durable cord may also be a worthwhile modification.

Conclusion on SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk offers a decent balance of features, weight, and price. While its performance and durability may not match higher-end tomahawks, it provides a functional and versatile tool for light to medium-duty tasks. It is lightweight, has a fire starter, and includes a sheath.

The value proposition is fair, considering the included features and the SOG brand name. At a price of $69.95, it’s an affordable option for those on a budget. The slightly soft blade is a point of contention, however.

I would personally recommend the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Survival Tomahawk to casual campers and backpackers looking for a lightweight and affordable survival tool. If you need an inexpensive tomahawk with a few survival features, then this is an option for you. But be prepared to put in the time for sharpening.