When it comes to versatile tools that can improve survival situations and everyday tasks, the SOG Tactical Tomahawk stands out as a top contender.
I own a SOG Survival Hatchet, as well as an SOG Machette. I’ve used both of them extensively for thinning branches and chopping down trees on my property, and they work very well.
This review aims to provide an in-depth look at this tactical tomahawk’s features, benefits, and drawbacks, helping you make an informed decision before your next purchase.
Table of Contents
- Overview
- Features and Benefits
- Specifications
- Drawbacks
- SOG Survival Hawk versus SOG Tomahawk
- Customer Reviews
- FAQ
- What distinguishes the SOG Tactical Survival Hatchet in outdoor survival scenarios?
- How does the design of the SOG Hatchet contribute to its functionality?
- Can the SOG Tactical Hatchet be considered a reliable tool for emergency preparedness?
- Is this hatchet suitable for both experienced outdoorsmen and beginners?
Overview
The SOG Tactical Tomahawk combines both traditional hand-to-hand and throwing hatchet components. It features a lightweight one-handed design, with a straight cutting edge on one side of the head and a spike for breaking or wedging on the other. It’s one of the best hatchets you can find for multi-purpose use.
Its blade consists of 420 stainless steel, with a Rockwell Hardness rating between 51 and 53. This will hold an edge well, while not being so hard as to chip easily.
The handle uses glass-reinforced nylon, which makes it significantly harder and stiffer than regular nylon and has greater tensile strength than nylon handles that lack reinforcement.
SOG uses a black finish on the metal, which matches the handle and the sheath. You can also have the manufacturer engrave your SOG Tactical Tomahawk.
You can use this tomahawk as a utility tool for chopping with its blade, breaking apart materials with the spike, or hammering with the checkered section on the side of the blade.
Features and Benefits
- Ballastic Nylon Sheath: The tomahawk comes with a protective sheath with snap button closures. It is durable and offers secure protection
- SOG Limited Lifetime Warranty
- SOG provides free sharpening (you pay shipping)
Specifications
- Overall Handle Length: 15.75 inches
- Overall Blade Length: 2.75 inches
- Total Weight: 24 ounces
Drawbacks
While the SOG Tactical Tomahawk is a well-rounded tool, it has drawbacks.
Some users have reported that the handle can become slippery when wet, a significant issue in rainy conditions, or with sweaty palms.
The tomahawk is not designed for heavy-duty tasks like splitting large logs, so it may not replace a traditional axe for some users.
You will find that the 420 stainless steel does not hold its edge like high-carbon steel would. However, using the 420 stainless steel makes for far better corrosion and chip resistance. It’s also easier to sharpen.
Also, consider that the one-handed design is relatively lightweight. That means you will need a higher swing speed to get the same impact force of a heavier hatchet.
SOG Survival Hawk versus SOG Tomahawk
When comparing two products from the same reputable brand, such as the SOG Survival Hawk and the SOG Tomahawk, it’s important to consider their design intent, features, ease of use, reliability, value for money, and their unique offerings to the user.
Both tools come from SOG, a company known for its high-quality, tactical, and outdoor gear, which includes knives and tools designed for survival, military, and outdoor use.
Key Features
SOG Survival Hawk:
- Designed for survival scenarios, it includes a versatile set of features beyond just being a tomahawk. It often incorporates a hammer head, a nail puller, and a fire starter, alongside the main axe blade.
- Lightweight and compact, making it suitable for long treks or inclusion in a bug-out bag.
SOG Tomahawk:
- More traditionally focused on the axe functionality, designed for chopping, breaching, and tactical applications.
- Typically features a more robust construction compared to the Survival Hawk, aimed at durability and sustained use in various conditions.
Ease of Use and Reliability
SOG Survival Hawk is designed with survival in mind, meaning its ease of use in crafting, building, and fire-starting is paramount. Its lighter weight and multifunctionality make it excellent for those needing a multipurpose tool without wanting to carry extra weight. However, compared to more specialized tools, this multifunctionality might compromise its durability under extreme conditions.
SOG Tomahawk, on the other hand, is built for reliability in its primary function as a chopping and breaching tool. It might be heavier and less versatile than the Survival Hawk. Still, its design ensures high performance and durability in demanding situations, such as tactical entries or heavy-duty chopping tasks.
Value for Money
SOG Survival Hawk offers great value for individuals looking for a multifunctional survival tool. Its additional features, like the fire starter, add significant value beyond its capability as a tomahawk.
SOG Tomahawk is often valued for its craftsmanship and durability, making it a preferred choice for those prioritizing a high-performance tool for chopping and tactical use. While it may come at a higher price point, its durability and specialized design justify the investment for the right user.
Unique Aspects and Performance in Challenging Scenarios
The SOG Survival Hawk stands out for its adaptability in various survival scenarios. Its unique features cater to immediate survival needs, such as fire starting, making it indispensable in emergencies.
The SOG Tomahawk excels in demanding physical tasks. Its design maximizes chopping efficiency and durability, making it a reliable tool for tactical and heavy-duty outdoor applications.
Market Reputation, User Feedback, and Reviews
Both tools enjoy positive market reputations, with users praising the SOG brand for its quality and reliability. The SOG Survival Hawk is often highlighted for its innovative design and versatility, which are particularly appreciated by survival enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The SOG Tomahawk receives acclaim for its durability and performance, and it is favored by professionals and tactical users who demand high reliability.
Which Is The Best Choice?
Determining the best choice between the SOG Survival Hawk and the SOG Tomahawk depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
If you prioritize versatility and need a lightweight, multi-use tool for survival situations, the SOG Survival Hawk offers an impressive array of features beyond traditional tomahawk capabilities.
However, if your primary need is for a robust, reliable chopping and tactical tool with fewer but more specialized features, the SOG Tomahawk stands out for its performance and durability.
Customer Reviews
The SOG Tactical Survival Hatchet garners high praise from users for its durability, sharpness, and versatility. This hatchet is acclaimed for its performance in camping, backpacking, and survival situations, with customers noting its ability to handle everything from chopping trees to making tinder. Despite its many positives, some users have raised concerns over the sheath quality, grip design, and paracord handle.
Pros
- Durability and Sharpness: Reviewers consistently highlight the hatchet’s enduring sharpness and lack of wear even after extensive use.
- Versatility: The hatchet’s design and features, including a built-in fire starter and nail remover, make it highly versatile for various outdoor and survival tasks.
- Balance and Size: Customers appreciate the hatchet’s well-balanced and compact design, making it a great addition to any pack without being cumbersome.
Cons
- Sheath Quality: Multiple reviews criticize the sheath’s design and functionality, suggesting room for improvement.
- Grip Issues: Some find the paracord handle slick, and the overall grip may be challenging for individuals with larger hands.
- Fire Starter Size: A few users mentioned the fire starter could be larger, indicating a minor inconvenience though not a deal-breaker.
Overall Customer Satisfaction
Overall, customer satisfaction with the SOG Tactical Survival Hatchet is high. The hatchet’s reliability, functionality, and solid construction make it a favored choice among outdoor enthusiasts. While there are some criticisms regarding the sheath and grip, these do not significantly detract from the hatchet’s overall performance and appeal.
The product stands out for its ability to deliver in both everyday and survival scenarios, proving to be a valuable tool for a wide range of users.
This hatchet has received many five-star reviews: click here for reviews and prices on Amazon, or check it out on eBay.
- 12.1 INCH STAINLESS STEEL TACTICAL AXE: The Survival Hawk tomahawk axe is a versatile outdoor tool, functioning as a wood chopping axe, camp axe, hiking hatchet, and survival tool. It features a 3-inch hardcased black stainless steel blade for durability and reliability.
- 19.5 OUNCE PORTABLE MULTITOOL AXE: This small backpacking hatchet and survival axe weigh only 19.5 ounces, making it light yet robust. Its glass-reinforced nylon and paracord grip provide excellent handling and control during outdoor activities.
- HUNTING AXE WITH SHEATH: The Survival Hawk stainless steel metal hatchet and multi-functional camping axe come with a convenient ballistic nylon sheath. This sheath can be easily slung from your belt or gear, ensuring quick and easy access to the axe whenever needed.
- FIRE STARTER AND CLAW SPIKE: This tactical axe tool offers a checkered hammer edge, a claw for prying and wire cutting, and an in-handle ferrocerium firestarter rod. With these features, it becomes a valuable companion for various camping tasks, including fire starting.
- SOG FOR LIFE: When you choose the SOG FastHawk survival axe with fire starter, you gain peace of mind with our commitment to excellent customer service. Take care of your camp axe, and we’ll take care of you. We gladly consider repairs and replacements for properly maintained products.
FAQ
What distinguishes the SOG Tactical Survival Hatchet in outdoor survival scenarios?
The SOG Tactical Survival Hatchet is noted for its compact size, versatility, and durability, making it ideal for various outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and emergencies. Its design prioritizes ease of handling and effectiveness in tasks such as chopping and cutting.
How does the design of the SOG Hatchet contribute to its functionality?
The hatchet’s lightweight and durable construction enhances its utility for prolonged outdoor use. The balance between the blade’s sharpness and the handle’s grip ensures efficient performance in cutting and chopping tasks.
Can the SOG Tactical Hatchet be considered a reliable tool for emergency preparedness?
Yes, the SOG Tactical Hatchet is highly regarded as a reliable addition to any emergency or survival kit. Its multifunctionality extends beyond typical hatchet duties, serving as a critical tool for building shelters, processing wood, and other survival necessities.
Is this hatchet suitable for both experienced outdoorsmen and beginners?
Absolutely, the SOG Tactical Survival Hatchet’s user-friendly design and functionality make it an excellent choice for individuals at all levels of outdoor expertise. It provides a balanced mix of efficiency and ease of use, appealing to both seasoned adventurers and those new to outdoor activities.
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