Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in Review

Let’s Talk About Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in

The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in is a modern iteration of a classic weapon, blending historical design with contemporary materials. Manufactured by Cold Steel, this tomahawk aims to be a versatile tool for breaching, self-defense, and recreational use. Its durable construction and replaceable handle make it an intriguing option for those seeking a reliable and adaptable tool.

I’ve always been interested in edged weapons and their potential utility in both wilderness survival and tactical scenarios. I needed a tool that was robust enough to handle chopping tasks, yet light enough to carry on extended hikes, and the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in seemed to strike that balance.

Unboxing the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in, I was immediately impressed by its heft and solid feel. The black finish on the 1055 carbon steel head looked menacing, and the polypropylene handle felt surprisingly grippy. The Secure-Ex sheath, while functional, seemed a bit basic for the overall quality of the hawk.

I considered the SOG Tomahawk and the Estwing Black Eagle Tomahawk, both popular options. However, I chose the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in for its replaceable handle and the slightly more aggressive design of the hawk’s head, thinking it would be better suited for breaching and self-defense.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It certainly looked the part of a serious tool, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in to a friend’s property in the mountains for initial testing. The property provided ample opportunities for chopping wood, throwing practice, and general abuse of the tool. The weather was dry and mild, ideal conditions for getting a feel for the tomahawk.

The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in performed admirably during my first use. It bit deep into seasoned oak, and the balance felt natural when throwing it at a target. The edge held up well, even after repeated impacts, and the handle provided a comfortable grip. There was some vibration when striking harder woods, but it wasn’t excessive.

The only issue I encountered was the Secure-Ex sheath retaining the hawk a little too tightly. This made it difficult to quickly draw the tomahawk, especially with gloves on.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in has proven to be a reliable tool. The black coating on the head has started to show some wear, particularly around the edge, but there’s no sign of rust or significant damage.

The polypropylene handle has held up surprisingly well, despite repeated impacts and exposure to the elements. There are a few minor scratches, but no cracks or other signs of weakness. Cleaning the tomahawk is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper hatchet, the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in is in a different league. It’s more durable, more versatile, and significantly more effective at chopping and breaching tasks. It exceeds my expectations for a tool in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in

Specifications

• Blade Material: The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in features a drop forged 1055 carbon steel blade. This material provides excellent durability and edge retention, making it suitable for heavy use.
• Handle Material: The handle is made of polypropylene, a tough and shock-resistant polymer. This material is designed to absorb impact and provide a comfortable grip.
• Overall Length: The overall length of the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in is 19 inches. This length provides a good balance between maneuverability and chopping power.
• Blade Length: The blade length is 3.5 inches. This allows for effective cutting and breaching.
• Weight: The tomahawk weighs 29 ounces. This is light enough for extended carry, yet heavy enough to deliver powerful blows.
• Sheath Material: The included sheath is made of molded polymer. This provides protection for the blade during storage and transport.
• Included Accessories: The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in includes a Durable Secure-Ex Dark Earth Sheath. This sheath provides a secure and convenient way to carry the tomahawk.
• Handle Finish: The handle has a Polypropylene finish. This provides a secure and comfortable grip.
• Blade Finish: The blade has a Black finish. This provides corrosion resistance and a tactical look.

These specifications translate into a tool that is both durable and effective. The carbon steel blade holds an edge well, while the polypropylene handle absorbs shock. The 19-inch length provides a good balance between chopping power and maneuverability.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in performs admirably in a variety of roles. It excels at chopping wood, breaching doors, and even throwing for recreational purposes.

Its strengths lie in its durability and ease of use. The carbon steel blade is tough and holds an edge well, while the polypropylene handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip. The main weakness is the Secure-Ex sheath, which can be difficult to draw from quickly. It meets my expectations as a versatile and reliable tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in is impressive for its price point. The materials used are durable and well-suited for the intended purpose. The weight is balanced, making it comfortable to swing and throw.

It’s user-friendly, but practicing drawing from the sheath is recommended. The learning curve is minimal; anyone familiar with axes or tomahawks will feel comfortable using it immediately.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in is built to last. The carbon steel blade and polypropylene handle are both very durable. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep it in good condition.

The replaceable handle is a major advantage in terms of maintainability. If the handle does break, it can be easily replaced without having to replace the entire tomahawk.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in comes with the Durable Secure-Ex Dark Earth Sheath. A replacement handle (H90PTHF) is also available for separate purchase.

There aren’t many customization options for this tomahawk. However, the replaceable handle allows for some degree of personalization. It is compatible with various paracord wrapping techniques for improved grip.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in?

The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in is perfect for survivalists, campers, and anyone who needs a versatile and durable tool for chopping, breaching, or self-defense. It is well-suited for those who appreciate a blend of historical design and modern materials.

This product is probably not the best choice for someone looking for a lightweight backpacking axe. They would likely prefer a smaller, lighter option.

A must-have accessory is a sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. Paracord wrapping the handle can improve grip and provide additional utility.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in

The Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in is a well-built and versatile tomahawk that offers excellent value for money. Its durable construction, replaceable handle, and comfortable grip make it a standout choice in its price range.

The price of $56.79 is certainly justified, considering the quality of materials and the versatility of the tool. It’s a solid investment for anyone seeking a reliable and adaptable tomahawk.

I would definitely recommend the Cold Steel Trench Hawk 19in to anyone looking for a durable and versatile tool for survival, camping, or tactical applications. Get your hands on one and experience the power and reliability of this modern tomahawk!