TOMAHAWK by Tyr Neilsen

The Tomahawk has proven itself to be a versatile tool and weapon throughout history, and its sustained popularity means it continues to evolve.

Whether in the hands of modern military units, law enforcement tactical teams, or civilians in camping and outdoor settings, the tomahawk is a tool with unique qualities and functionality.

lakota tomahawk from mid 19th century

A tomahawk is a single-handed axe, traditionally used by Indigenous peoples and nations of North America. Tomahawk comes from the Powhatan word tamahaac, derived from the Proto-Algonquian 'temah' meaning 'to cut off by tool'.

Tomahawks date back centuries, and were used as general-purpose tool and weapon in hand-to-hand combat. In pre-colonial times, the tomahawk head was made of stone, bone, or antler. European settlers later introduced heads of iron and steel.

Metal tomahawk heads were based on a Royal Navy boarding axe, used as a trade item with Native Americans for food and other provisions.

military tomahawk issued to U.S. troops during the Vietnam War. 440 stainless steel construction axe head and bit pick with hardwood handle. 7 1/2" blade, 12 5/8" overall.

In the 20th century, the tomahawk saw renewed interest as a weapon of combat. During the Vietnam War, units of the US armed forces used updated tomahawks that were lightweight, versatile, and deadly in close-quarters combat. These were commonly referred to as "Vietnam tomahawks."

The US military in Afghanistan also found that the tomahawk was optimal for use in battlefield conditions. More practical and versatile than a knife, the demand for tomahawks led to increased customizing and development.

Tomahawks have continually gained popularity among military and law enforcement, but it has also become increasingly popular with civilians, who have recognized the value of the tomahawk as a camping and bushcraft tool. Tomahawks are a popular alternative to the hatchet, as they are often lighter and slimmer, making them easier to carry.

The SOG Tactical Tomahawk has been a long time favorite of mine. It’ a durable and versatile survival tactical axe, throwing hatchet, and emergency breaching tool.

It’s a little under 16” long (40cm), weighs just 24 ounces (680 grams), has a razor-sharp 3 inch (7cm), 420 stainless steel hatchet blade, and is built to swing fast and true.

The SOG tomahawk is easy to handle for light woodcraft tasks, with a strong, high-impact, glass-reinforced nylon handle, a piercing spike for chipping, and a flat edge for hammering. If you want a durable and versatile tomahawk, the SOG is a great option.