Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Spike Hawk
The Cold Steel Spike Hawk isn’t just another axe; it’s a testament to practical design and historical inspiration, brought to life with modern materials. Forged by Cold Steel, this hawk combines a robust 1055 carbon steel head with a sturdy American hickory handle.
I needed a versatile tool that could handle both camp chores and self-defense scenarios in the backcountry. The Cold Steel Spike Hawk promised to deliver precisely that, piquing my interest with its unique combination of chopping power and tactical capability.
Upon unboxing, the Cold Steel Spike Hawk felt surprisingly balanced for its size. The black-coated steel head looked menacing, while the natural hickory handle provided a comfortable and secure grip. The overall construction felt solid and well-made.
I considered the Estwing Black Eagle Tomahawk and the SOG Tomahawk before settling on the Cold Steel Spike Hawk. The deciding factor was its lower price point coupled with the reputation of Cold Steel for producing durable and reliable tools.
My first impression was one of cautious excitement. The Cold Steel Spike Hawk had the potential to be an invaluable asset, but I needed to put it through its paces to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Spike Hawk to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Cold Steel Spike Hawk on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varied terrain and abundance of firewood provided the perfect opportunity to test its capabilities.
Despite a steady drizzle, the Cold Steel Spike Hawk maintained its grip and chopping power. The spike proved useful for digging and prying, while the edge handled limbing and splitting small logs with ease.
The handle felt comfortable in my hand, even after extended use. The hawk’s balance made it easy to control, though I did need to adjust my swing to maximize its efficiency.
The only initial concern was the sharpness of the spike. While effective, it required careful handling to avoid accidental pokes, highlighting the need for a sheath (sold separately).
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Spike Hawk has proven to be remarkably resilient. The edge remains sharp, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a file.
Aside from some minor cosmetic scratches on the black coating, there are no signs of significant wear or damage. The hickory handle remains solid and free of cracks, even after repeated impacts.
Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the steel head rust-free. The hickory handle benefits from occasional conditioning with linseed oil to prevent drying.
Compared to my previous hatchets, the Cold Steel Spike Hawk offers a superior combination of chopping power, versatility, and durability. It’s quickly become my go-to tool for outdoor adventures.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Spike Hawk
Specifications
- The Cold Steel Spike Hawk features a drop forged 1055 carbon steel head. This provides excellent strength and edge retention.
- It has a 3.125-inch blade length and a 9-inch hawk length. These dimensions offer a good balance between chopping power and portability.
- The Cold Steel Spike Hawk weighs in at 24.5 oz (1.53 lbs). This makes it light enough for extended carry without sacrificing performance.
- It boasts a 22-inch overall length. This allows for a comfortable swing and ample leverage.
- The handle is made of American hickory. It offers excellent shock absorption and a secure grip.
These specifications contribute to the Cold Steel Spike Hawk’s overall effectiveness. The carbon steel head provides a durable and sharp cutting edge. The hickory handle offers a comfortable and secure grip. The overall size and weight make it easy to carry and maneuver in various conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Spike Hawk excels at chopping, splitting, and piercing. Its sharp edge and pointed spike deliver impressive cutting and penetrating power.
The main strength is its versatility. Its design allows it to be used for everything from splitting firewood to breaching tasks. The primary weakness is the lack of a included sheath.
It exceeds my expectations as a camp tool and self-defense option. It balances usability and effectiveness very well.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cold Steel Spike Hawk’s build quality is exceptional. The materials used are durable, and the overall design is well-thought-out. The weight distribution feels balanced.
It is user-friendly. The learning curve is minimal for those familiar with axes or tomahawks.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel Spike Hawk is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is easy. Keeping the blade sharp and the handle conditioned will maximize its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
Cold Steel offers a separate leather sheath (#SL90SH) specifically designed for the Cold Steel Spike Hawk. This is highly recommended for safe carry and storage.
While the Cold Steel Spike Hawk doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the head can be re-hafted with a custom handle if desired. Many users also choose to wrap the handle with paracord for enhanced grip and added utility.
It is generally compatible with aftermarket sheaths designed for similar-sized tomahawks. Be sure to confirm fit before purchasing.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Spike Hawk
Pros
- Versatile Tool: Excellent for chopping, splitting, piercing, and prying.
- Durable Construction: Drop forged 1055 carbon steel head and American hickory handle ensure long-lasting performance.
- Balanced Design: Provides comfortable handling and efficient swing.
- Effective Spike: Adds utility for digging, breaching, and self-defense.
- Affordable Price: Offers great value for its capabilities.
Cons
- Sheath Not Included: Requires separate purchase for safe carry and storage.
- Spike Sharpness: Requires careful handling to avoid accidental injuries.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Spike Hawk?
The Cold Steel Spike Hawk is perfect for outdoorsmen, survivalists, campers, and anyone seeking a versatile and reliable tool for wood processing and self-defense. Its robust construction and balanced design make it ideal for those who demand performance and durability.
Those seeking a tool primarily for fine woodworking or intricate carving should skip this product. The Cold Steel Spike Hawk’s design focuses on power and versatility, not precision.
A must-have accessory is the Cold Steel leather sheath. Paracord for wrapping the handle is also a practical addition for enhanced grip and utility.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Spike Hawk
The Cold Steel Spike Hawk is a well-designed and highly functional tool that delivers exceptional value for its price. Its combination of chopping power, piercing capability, and durable construction makes it a standout choice in its category.
The price is more than justified. It provides a quality build and functional design.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Cold Steel Spike Hawk to anyone seeking a versatile and reliable tomahawk for outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness. It’s a valuable tool that will not disappoint. Add one to your kit today!