Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk
The Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk is more than just a tool; it’s a piece of history, a modern re-imagining of a design that helped shape North America. Cold Steel, a name synonymous with durable and practical edged weapons, has taken the iconic Hudson Bay axe pattern and shrunk it down to a versatile tomahawk format, offering a blend of chopping power and portability. It’s a tool I’ve been eager to test, drawn to its promise of bridging the gap between a full-sized axe and a smaller hatchet.
I’ve long admired the simple efficiency of the axe, but carrying a full-sized one on backpacking trips always felt like overkill. The Hudson Bay Tomahawk promised a solution: a compact tool capable of handling camp chores, clearing brush, and even serving as a last-ditch self-defense option. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Hudson Bay Tomahawk’s classic aesthetic and solid feel.
The head, drop-forged from 1050 carbon steel, has a reassuring heft. The straight-grain American hickory handle feels comfortable and secure in hand. Compared to a smaller hatchet, the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk offers significantly more chopping power thanks to its longer handle and larger head.
Compared to larger axes, like a Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe, the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk is far more portable, sacrificing some splitting power for ease of carry. It’s also distinctly different from other tactical tomahawks, such as the SOG Voodoo Hawk, which focuses more on breaching and less on traditional woodcraft. I picked the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk because it seemed like the best compromise between utility and packability.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it could live up to its historical namesake and the reputation of Cold Steel.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk was a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I primarily used it for processing firewood and clearing a small area for my tent. The 3 ½ inch cutting edge bit deeply into dry oak and pine, making quick work of branches up to a few inches in diameter.
The weight and balance felt natural, and I didn’t experience any fatigue, even after an hour of chopping. It performed admirably in the dry conditions, but I was curious to see how it would fare when things got wet. There were no immediate issues after the first use, but I noticed the head could benefit from a bit more sharpening for optimal performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk has proven to be a reliable and versatile tool. I’ve used it for everything from splitting kindling to shaping tent stakes. The 1055 carbon steel has held up remarkably well.
There are no major signs of wear and tear on the head, aside from some expected cosmetic scratches. The hickory handle has remained tight and secure, showing no signs of cracking or splitting, a common issue with cheaper axes. I’ve found that wiping the blade with oil after each use helps prevent rust.
Maintaining the edge is relatively easy with a sharpening stone. Compared to some of the more expensive axes I’ve used, the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk holds its own in terms of performance and durability, making it an excellent value.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk
Specifications
Manufacturer: Cold Steel.
Blade Material: 1055 Carbon Steel. This provides a good balance of toughness and edge retention.
Handle Material: American Hickory. It is known for its strength and shock absorption.
Overall Length: 22 inches. This provides ample leverage for chopping while remaining manageable for packing.
Cutting Edge: 3 ½ inches. It’s sufficient for most camp tasks.
Weight: 24.6 oz (1.54 lbs). A reasonable weight for a tomahawk, allowing for extended use without excessive fatigue.
Handle Finish: Hickory. The natural wood finish offers a comfortable grip.
Blade Finish: Grey. The grey finish is durable and resists corrosion.
General Application: Camping. It is well-suited for various outdoor activities.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the tomahawk’s performance. The 1055 carbon steel provides a good balance between edge retention and ease of sharpening. The hickory handle offers excellent shock absorption, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk performs admirably for its size and weight. The head is heavy enough to generate significant chopping power, and the handle provides good leverage. It excels at tasks like splitting small logs, clearing brush, and shaping wood.
The hammer poll is a useful addition for driving stakes or pounding. However, the relatively short cutting edge can make felling larger trees challenging. It meets expectations for a lightweight, versatile tomahawk, but it’s not a replacement for a full-sized axe.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk is simple, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. The straight handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, and the head is well-balanced. The weight is distributed evenly, reducing fatigue during extended use.
The user-friendly design requires minimal learning curve. Even beginners can quickly become proficient with it.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk is built to last. The 1055 carbon steel is tough and durable. The hickory handle is resistant to cracking and splitting.
Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving keeping the blade sharp and lightly oiled to prevent rust. The head is securely attached to the handle and can be easily re-tightened if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk does not come with any accessories, such as a sheath. However, aftermarket leather or nylon sheaths are readily available from various brands. The handle can also be wrapped with paracord for added grip and comfort.
While there are limited customization options, the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk is compatible with standard axe and tomahawk handle replacements. This allows users to personalize the tool to their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk
Pros
- Exceptional value for the price. It offers excellent performance and durability at an affordable price point.
- Versatile tool for camping and outdoor tasks. It excels at chopping, splitting, and shaping wood.
- Durable 1055 carbon steel blade. It holds an edge well and is easy to sharpen.
- Comfortable and secure hickory handle. It absorbs shock and provides a firm grip.
- Lightweight and portable design. It is easy to pack and carry on backpacking trips.
Cons
- Relatively short cutting edge. This can make felling larger trees challenging.
- No sheath included. It requires purchasing an aftermarket sheath for safe carry and storage.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk?
The Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk is perfect for:
- Campers and backpackers who need a versatile tool for processing firewood and performing other camp chores.
- Survivalists who want a reliable and durable tomahawk for wilderness survival situations.
- Bushcrafters who need a tool for shaping wood and building shelters.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who need to fell large trees regularly should opt for a full-sized axe.
- Those prioritizing tactical breaching over general utility may prefer a dedicated breaching tomahawk.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A quality leather or nylon sheath for safe carry and storage.
- A sharpening stone for maintaining the edge.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk
The Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk is a solid and dependable tool that offers exceptional value for the price. It’s a versatile companion for camping, backpacking, and survival situations, providing a blend of chopping power and portability. The price is absolutely justified.
I would personally recommend the Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable tomahawk for general outdoor use. Grab a Cold Steel Hudson Bay Tomahawk today and experience the legacy of this iconic design firsthand!