First Impressions of Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack
As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of throwing implements, from knives to tomahawks. But there’s something uniquely satisfying about the primal act of hurling an axe, and the Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack promises to deliver that experience in a budget-friendly, accessible package. These aren’t heirloom-quality axes meant for splitting logs; they’re purpose-built for the joy and skill of axe throwing.
I was looking for an affordable, durable set of throwing axes to introduce some friends to the sport without risking my more expensive competition-grade tomahawks. The promise of a three-pack, combined with Cold Steel’s reputation for producing tough tools, made this set a compelling option. The price point was a significant draw, and I hoped these axes would offer a good balance between performance and affordability.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the compact size and relatively light weight. At 10.75 inches overall and weighing in at 1.8 pounds each, these axes feel agile and easy to handle. The 420 stainless steel blade has a utilitarian, unsharpened edge designed for sticking into targets, not slicing. The black cord-wrapped handle provides a surprisingly comfortable grip, and the included nylon sheaths are a welcome addition for safe storage and transport.
Compared to my Council Tool competition tomahawk (much larger and heavier) or my Estwing Camper’s Axe (designed for chopping), the Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack are clearly in a different category. I chose these over individual throwing axes from other brands because of the value proposition of getting three axes and sheaths for a reasonable price. The Cold Steel name also gave me confidence in their potential durability.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was pleased with the compact size and included sheaths, though slightly concerned about the long-term durability of the cord-wrapped handles. I was excited to get them out to the range and see how they performed, hoping they’d live up to Cold Steel’s reputation for toughness.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack at my local axe-throwing range, which features a variety of wooden targets at distances from 12 to 20 feet. The weather was dry and mild, perfect for an afternoon of throwing. I primarily used them to teach beginners the basics of axe throwing.
These axes performed admirably in ideal conditions. The light weight and compact size made them easy for beginners to control, and the unsharpened blades stuck reliably into the soft wooden targets. There were no issues with the axe heads loosening or the cord wrap unraveling during the first few hours of use.
The learning curve was minimal. After a few practice throws, most beginners were able to consistently stick the axes into the target from a distance of 12 feet. The only surprise was how quickly the targets became chewed up, a testament to the force these little axes can deliver.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack have held up reasonably well, though some wear and tear is noticeable. The cord-wrapped handles have started to show some fraying, particularly at the points where they are gripped most firmly. Some minor rusting has appeared on the blade surfaces despite being stainless steel, mostly superficial and easily remedied with oil.
The durability is acceptable for the price. Given the repetitive impact of throwing, I expected some wear and tear. The axes haven’t broken or become unusable, but the handles will likely need to be re-wrapped at some point.
Maintenance is simple. After each throwing session, I wipe down the blades with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent rust. I’ve also considered applying some epoxy to the cord wrap to increase its longevity.
Compared to my more expensive throwing tomahawks, the Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack don’t offer the same level of performance or refined feel. However, they are significantly more affordable and serve their purpose well as introductory throwing axes. They are a great way to get started in the sport without a large initial investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack
Specifications
- Blade Material: 420 Stainless Steel. This provides a decent balance between corrosion resistance and edge retention (though these are throwing axes and not intended to be sharp).
- Overall Length: 10.75 inches. A compact size makes these axes easy to handle and throw, especially for beginners.
- Blade Length: 1.75 inches. This refers to the cutting edge length, which is minimal since these are designed for sticking, not chopping.
- Weight: 1.8 lbs per axe. A relatively light weight, contributing to ease of use and reduced fatigue during extended throwing sessions.
- Handle: Black Cord Wrapped. Offers a comfortable grip, but may be less durable than traditional wooden or synthetic handles.
- Sheath: Nylon. Each axe comes with a nylon sheath for safe storage and transportation.
These specifications are important because they define the axes’ intended use and target audience. The compact size and light weight make them ideal for beginners or those with smaller frames. The 420 stainless steel provides adequate durability for throwing into wooden targets.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack perform their primary function – sticking into wooden targets – very well. The weight distribution and blade shape allow for a consistent throwing motion, making it easy to achieve accurate throws. They are easy to learn and fun to use.
The main strength is their accessibility. The combination of affordability, manageable size, and ease of use makes them an excellent choice for introducing new people to axe throwing. The primary weakness is the potential long-term durability of the cord-wrapped handles.
These axes largely meet my expectations. They are not high-performance competition axes, but they are perfectly suitable for recreational throwing and beginner instruction. They excel within their intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price point. The steel seems durable and the axe heads are securely attached to the handles. The cord-wrapped handles are comfortable, but may not be as robust as other handle materials.
These axes are relatively user-friendly. There’s no real learning curve involved in using them, aside from mastering the basic throwing technique. The compact size and light weight make them easy to handle for users of all sizes.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, these axes should last for a reasonable amount of time, though the cord-wrapped handles may require eventual replacement. The steel is prone to superficial rust if not properly maintained.
Maintenance is fairly straightforward, involving cleaning and oiling the blades after each use. Replacing the cord wrap is also a relatively simple task that can be done with basic tools and materials. The key is preventative maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack come with a nylon sheath for each axe, which is a very useful accessory for safe storage and transport. There aren’t many readily available customization options specifically designed for these axes.
However, users could potentially customize the handles by replacing the cord wrap with paracord or other materials. The axes are fairly simple in design, limiting the possibilities for extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack
Pros
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for a set of three throwing axes with sheaths.
- Easy to Use: Compact size and light weight make them ideal for beginners.
- Durable Steel: The 420 stainless steel blades are reasonably durable for throwing into wooden targets.
- Included Sheaths: Each axe comes with a nylon sheath for safe storage and transport.
- Fun and Engaging: Provides a fun and accessible way to get into axe throwing.
Cons
- Cord-Wrapped Handles: The cord wrap may not be as durable as other handle materials and could require eventual replacement.
- Superficial Rust: The steel is prone to superficial rust if not properly maintained.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack?
These axes are perfect for:
- Beginners: Those new to axe throwing will appreciate the ease of use and manageable size.
- Recreational Throwers: Ideal for casual backyard throwing and introducing friends to the sport.
- Groups and Organizations: The three-pack makes them a cost-effective option for groups or organizations looking to offer axe-throwing activities.
Who should skip this product?
- Competitive Throwers: Serious competitors will likely prefer higher-end, purpose-built competition axes.
- Those Seeking Extreme Durability: If you need axes that can withstand heavy abuse and neglect, you might want to consider a more robust option with a different handle material.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Linseed Oil or other rust preventative oil: To prevent rust on the blade.
- Extra Cord Wrap: In case the original cord wrap wears out.
- A sturdy wooden target: Crucial for safe and effective throwing.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack
The Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack offer an exceptional value proposition for anyone looking to get into axe throwing. While they may not be the most durable or high-performance axes on the market, their affordability, ease of use, and overall functionality make them an excellent choice for beginners and recreational throwers. They are fun to use and a great way to learn the basics of this primal sport.
The price is definitely justified. You get three axes with sheaths for less than the price of a single higher-end throwing axe. They are perfect for getting started.
I would definitely recommend these axes to anyone looking for an affordable and accessible way to get into axe throwing. They are a solid starting point.
So, grab a set of the Cold Steel Throwing Axes, 1.75in Blade, 10.75in Overall, 420Ss, Nylon Sheath, 3 Pack, find a safe target, and experience the primal satisfaction of sticking an axe into wood! Just remember to throw responsibly and have fun.