What is a tomahawk?
Why should you carry a heavy weapon if you have a versatile tool like a tomahawk?
Tomahawks can be used on a number of purposes such as opening crates, chopping pallets and breaking inside buildings.
In this article, we shall define tomahawk and the evolution of tomahawks over time. We shall also be discussing the parts of a Tomahawk and its types. Lastly, we shall also be providing you with some time and advice in handling this useful tool.
History on tomahawks: Tomahawk vs Axe
Among the earliest equipment of humans is a stone-headed axe. Over the years, axes were deemed to be excellent tools used as weapons. During the Iron Age, people usually make axes using metal heads with wooden handles. These tools were used for farming, wood chopping and weaponry.
Vikings also used axes for weapons in wars. A sword is useful but tends to be more expensive than a normal axe. Axes can easily be sharpened and brought along on fights by tucking it on their belt. This allows them to be ready for any fight.
In today’s time, tomahawks are used by the military as weapons for wars. It is a deadly weapon which can also double up as a survival tool.
Anatomy of Tomahawks
The tomahawk is made up of several parts.
These include the blade edge, spike, beard, handle and butt or pole. Provided below are brief details on each part.
Blade edge
The main sharp part of a tomahawk is the blade. You my use it on fighting applications and slicing & chopping objects. Big blades offer better hits as you can easily swing it. On the other hand, small blades are hard to land but can provide a deeper penetration.
Spike
The spike is another feature that the user may opt to sharpen. This part may be utilized to trap the opponent’s arm or hook one behind the knee or neck. Moreover, you can easily throw it to make your opponent off balance.
Beard
This part may also be sharpened. It cuts an object when used for hooking.
Handle
The handle of a tomahawk may be made from various materials. Traditional ones are made from heavy-duty wood. There are also some that are made with full metal.
Butt or Poll
This part of the tomahawk aids in keeping the blade on the handle in place. A strong butt or poll provides a better foundation for tomahawk cuts and chops.
We suggest familiarizing yourself with these parts before actually using the weapon. In this way, you may know the features and applications of tomahawks better.
Applications and Types of Tomahawks
In general, Tomahawks are considered as small axes. There are different types of tomahawks which are classified by how they are used. There are breaching, throwing and tactical tomahawks. Provided below are brief details about each type.
Breaching Tomahawk
Considered as heavier and sturdier, outdoor enthusiasts utilize this type for a number of purposes. These include prying steel doors, breaking wooden doors and windows. You may also use it for heavy-duty activities.
Usually made with steel, its full tang makes it heavy but with robust. Since it’s weight is heavy, most breaching Tomahawks are not preferable for throwing. Moreover, experts advise not to utilize it on fighting activities.
Throwing Tomahawk
This type of Tomahawk is great for throwing activities because of its balanced and weighted features. Some throwing tomahawks are also great for tactical tasks. Nonetheless, this weapon is considered too light compared with the breaching type.
Tactical Tomahawk
You may utilize tactical tomahawks for self-defense and fighting applications. In general, this type of tomahawk has a spike and axle blade. The blade is mainly used to chop and slice the opponent. Here are some of the best tomahawks you can consider.
As the blade goes bigger, the tomahawk becomes easier to swing. With this, you can get a clean hit or cut on the target. Alternatively, smaller blades provide a harder time to swing. Nevertheless, for close-proximity combat, smaller blades can penetrate deeper. When purchasing a tactical tomahawk, you must remember these trade-offs.
There are also certain tasks that a small tomahawk cannot handle. If you want to chop a heavy wood, you may consider getting a woodsman axe with a long handle. Nonetheless, for smaller wood, there are tomahawks that can provide a decent chop.
These are the main types of tomahawks available in the market in today’s time. We recommend checking out their features as well as pros and cons before investing on one.
Tips in Choosing a Tomahawk
Tomahawks are great weapons due to their versatility and durability for different types of hunting. When choosing a Tomahawk, you can find certain features that can fit your requirements. Here are some things you can consider.
Primary use: Tomahawk users commonly consist of mountaineers, trekkers, bushcrafters and adventurers. It may also be utilized on military and other related services.
Head Shape: You may choose from different head options – single / double head or head with flat/spike back. We recommend identifying which head type can accommodate your needs.
Handle Length: Tomahawks average at least 20 but not more than 50 centimeters. Your handle length should depend on intended usage.
These are just some of the things you should look into when choosing a Tomahawk. You must observe your requirements and select one appropriate for your needs.
Conclusion
Tomahawks are great tools for different purposes like outdoor activities and fighting applications. When looking for the best one for your application, we recommend looking into its features.
You can start by learning about its parts and the types available in the market.
