Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe Review

Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe isn’t just a tool; it’s a piece of American history reimagined for the modern outdoorsman. Cold Steel has a reputation for producing rugged, dependable implements, and this hawk looks to continue that legacy. I’ve always been drawn to the versatility of hawk axes, and this one promised to be a solid all-around performer, equally adept at chopping wood and throwing with accuracy.

My old hatchet simply wasn’t cutting it (pun intended) for more demanding tasks around my property. I needed something with more reach and power for clearing brush and splitting larger pieces of firewood. I’d also been wanting to get into axe throwing for fun, and the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe seemed like a great entry point.

Upon unboxing, the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe felt surprisingly well-balanced. The drop-forged 1055 carbon steel head had a solid heft, while the American hickory handle felt comfortable and secure in my hand. The black finish on the blade looked durable and ready for some serious work, with the hammer poll on the back immediately communicating its utility.

Compared to other axes I considered, like the Estwing Black Eagle Tomahawk (more tactical, less traditional) and the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe (beautiful but pricey), the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe struck a great balance between affordability, functionality, and classic design. Its dual-purpose nature—chopping and throwing—sealed the deal. I wanted something that could work hard and play hard, and this seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype, especially considering the incredibly reasonable price of $47.19.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe at my family’s rural property during a weekend of clearing overgrown trails. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect for spending hours outdoors. I used it to chop small trees, clear thick brush, and split some seasoned oak firewood.

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe performed admirably in these conditions. The factory-honed edge bit deeply into the wood, and the weight of the head made chopping relatively effortless. I was surprised how easily it dispatched smaller trees with just a few well-placed swings.

It did take me a little while to get used to the balance for throwing. The dual sticking points on the blade made a noticeable difference, though, and I was soon sticking the axe consistently at around 15 feet. After a couple hours, my shoulder was definitely feeling the workout.

My first surprise came when hammering stakes for a temporary shelter: the hammer poll, though functional, is much smaller than a regular hammer. This required more precise aim to effectively drive the stakes.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe continues to impress. I’ve used it for everything from splitting firewood to clearing shooting lanes at the range. It’s become my go-to tool for any task requiring a sharp edge and some serious power.

The blade has held up surprisingly well, showing only minor signs of wear and tear. A few small nicks appeared after prolonged use on harder woods, but nothing that a quick sharpening couldn’t fix. The hickory handle has also proven to be quite durable, with no signs of splitting or cracking despite some heavy use.

Maintenance is relatively simple: I typically clean the blade with a wire brush after each use and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. I also occasionally rub the handle with linseed oil to keep it from drying out. The straight grain American hickory handle is easily replaced if needed due to it being attached to the hawk head with a simple pressure fit.

Compared to my previous experience with cheaper hatchets, the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe is in a different league. It’s more powerful, more durable, and far more versatile. I’d compare it to the Gerber Freescape Hatchet. The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe is far more practical for the price point. It may be a more simple design, but the cost efficiency is the main difference. It has exceeded my expectations and has quickly become one of my favorite tools.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe

Specifications

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe boasts the following specifications:

• Blade Material: Drop Forged 1055 Carbon: The use of 1055 carbon steel ensures excellent strength and edge retention.
• Handle Material: American Hickory: The hickory handle offers a comfortable and secure grip while absorbing shock during use.
• Overall Length: 22 inches: This length provides a good balance of power and portability.
• Blade Length: 3.5 inches: The blade is long enough for effective chopping but not so large as to be unwieldy.
• Weight: 36.5 oz: The weight provides enough heft for powerful swings while remaining manageable for extended use.
• Blade Finish: Black: The black finish helps to protect the blade from rust and corrosion.
• Handle Finish: American Hickory: The natural finish of the hickory handle provides a comfortable and traditional feel.
• Hawk Length: 8 1/8 inches: Provides the length and leverage required for throwing and more demanding chopping tasks.
• American Style Hammer-Head Butt: The hammer poll allows for hammering stakes and other tasks requiring blunt force.
• Factory-Honed Cutting Edge: Provides a sharp, ready-to-use edge out of the box.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and versatility of the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe. The 1055 carbon steel head provides excellent strength and edge retention, while the hickory handle offers a comfortable and secure grip. The overall length and weight are optimized for both chopping and throwing, making it a truly multi-purpose tool.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe performs its job exceptionally well. It excels at chopping wood, clearing brush, and throwing with accuracy. The factory-honed edge is sharp enough for most tasks out of the box, and the weight of the head provides plenty of power for splitting even larger pieces of firewood.

One of its strengths is its versatility. The hammer poll adds another layer of functionality, making it useful for hammering stakes and other tasks. The dual sticking points on the blade make it an excellent throwing axe, and the overall balance is surprisingly good.

One area for improvement could be the size of the hammer poll. It is a bit small for driving larger stakes or nails effectively. Other than that, the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe is impressive, especially considering its price point. The materials used are durable and well-suited for heavy use. The 1055 carbon steel head feels solid and substantial, and the hickory handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip.

The weight is well-distributed, making it easy to swing and control. The handle is ergonomically shaped, and the overall design feels natural and intuitive. There’s a slight learning curve with throwing, as it is with any axe. However, the balance and dual sticking points make it easier to learn than many other throwing axes.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe is built to last. The durable materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand years of heavy use. I expect it to last for many years with proper care and maintenance.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and oiling will help to prevent rust and keep the blade in good condition. The hickory handle can be treated with linseed oil to prevent drying and cracking. The head can also be easily reattached to the handle, or the handle can be replaced if necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe does not come with any accessories. Cold Steel offers a sheath separately, which is highly recommended for safety and protection.

Customization options are somewhat limited, but the handle can be replaced with a different type of wood or a custom shape. It is also possible to modify the blade, but this is generally not recommended unless you have experience with metalworking.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe

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Who Should Buy Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe?

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe is perfect for:

• Backcountry campers and hikers who need a reliable tool for chopping wood and clearing brush.
• Hunters who need a versatile tool for processing game and building shelters.
• Survivalists who want a durable and multi-purpose tool for any situation.
• Individuals looking to get into axe throwing as a hobby.
• Anyone who needs a reliable axe for general use around the home or property.

Who should skip this product?

• Those needing to drive large stakes regularly, as the hammer poll is somewhat small.
• People who prioritize lightweight gear above all else, although at 36.5oz it is reasonable, lighter options exist.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A high-quality sheath for safe carry and storage.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe

The Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe is an excellent tool that offers outstanding value for the price. It’s a versatile, durable, and well-balanced axe that can be used for a wide range of tasks. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

The price of $47.19 is absolutely justified, given the quality and functionality of this tool. It’s a great investment for anyone who needs a reliable axe for outdoor activities, survival situations, or general use around the home or property.

I would absolutely recommend the Cold Steel Rifleman’s Hawk Axe. It’s a well-made, versatile, and affordable tool that will not disappoint. Pick one up and experience the satisfaction of wielding a true American classic! Get yours today!