# Classic Tomahawk, Modern Chops: TOPS Hammer Hawk Overview
My family heritage of trappers and hunters in the Hudson Valley and along the Connecticut River has instilled in me a deep love for the outdoors. My passion for edged tools, such as axes and hatchets, has been passed down through generations.
During my time writing for GearJunkie, I’ve had the opportunity to explore various axes and hatchets. From the Hults Bruk 325-Year Anniversary Axe to the relevance of hatchets, and now, the TOPS Hammer Hawk. Handcrafted in Idaho, this 2.25-pound tool, forged from a single piece of ⅜”-thick 1075 carbon steel, combines both traditional and modern elements, making it suitable for hunting, camping, and outdoor living.
In essence, the TOPS Hammer Hawk, made from 1075 carbon steel and Cerakote ceramic-coated for corrosion resistance, boasts a modern grippy-when-wet Micarta handle, multiple grip positions, and an oversized blade. This makes it an essential cutting and chopping tool for camping and long-term use.
TOPS Hammer Hawk: Review
Features
The Hammer Hawk is made from tungsten Cerakoted 1075 carbon steel, designed for ergonomics, functionality, and aesthetics. The hardened and shaped butt serves as a functional hammer. The head’s weight distribution and reliefs in its cheeks harken back to the everyday carry tools that tomahawks once were.
Additionally, the handle’s modern design and multiple grip positions make it adaptable to various tasks. The exaggerated end knob and lanyard hole provide added safety and flexibility.
Rounding out the features are the green canvas Micarta handle scales, contributing to a secure grip in both wet and dry conditions. The Hammer Hawk also comes with a full-grain leather blade cover and belt frog for convenient transport on a belt.
First Impressions
While not a traditional tomahawk, the Hammer Hawk’s 4.5” blade and 14.5” length make it a powerful camp and survival tool. Its design enables precision tasks, chopping, hammering, and smashing.
Furthermore, the modern ice-axe-like flow and swing, coupled with the beveled scales, indicate intentional design details that contribute to its performance as a versatile tool.
In the Field
During field testing, the Hammer Hawk effortlessly powered through downed branches and beaver-damaged wood. Its corrosion-resistant finish made it effective for breaking through ice, while its hammer function proved solid for driving tent stakes into frozen ground.
While the thickness of the hammer could be improved, its overall performance and adaptability were evident in various outdoor tasks.
TOPS Hammer Hawk: In Conclusion
While priced at $530, the Hammer Hawk’s craftsmanship and versatility make it a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and professionals alike. Its marriage of traditional and modern elements positions it as a multi-functional implement beyond mere wood chopping.
Ultimately, the Hammer Hawk’s durability, adaptability, and attention to detail make it a tool worth considering for anyone who spends extended periods in the great outdoors.
