Difference between a standard Hawk and a full tang Hawk?

[jeremy1517]

What is the differences between the standard Hawk and a full tang Hawk?

Other than the obvious, full tang vs. forged head with wood handle...

I have a wonderful Coal Creek hawk that I love but I see these awesome full tang hawks, tactical, etc. Is there a benefit of one vs other? Is one better for various tasks?

Thanks for the input!

 

[foxx]

Full tang hawks shouldn't break, so for hard use they are stronger. In situations where a broken handle can lead to loss of life, a full tang would be the way to go.
Over swinging a target can damage a wooden haft, but breaching metal or walls could break the wood, and leave the head inside the wall, or car door.
But, most full tang hawks don't have the forward weight of a traditional. Most tactical hawks have thicker edges, and can't chop wood very well, if at all. Steel is heavier than wood, so the handles are usually much heavier, adding total weight to the hawk. They don't throw as easily, or spin the same as a traditional either.
Some tactical hawks have holes throughout the handle to lighten the handle and total weight. Also, that puts more weight where you want it, in the head.
Winkler hawks are the only ones I know of with a tapered tang, so they have a great forward weight. They swing more like a traditional hawk, yet have a full tang for strength.

 

[Storm Crow]

Wooden handles naturally have more flex to them than steel ones do, and do a better job of isolating the hand from vibration. I've never encountered a handle material that felt better than a good wooden handle. That being said, I went full-tang on my tactical 'hawks to make them better for prying, and because I've spent too much time replacing broken wooden handles to trust a soldier's life on one in a modern battlefield. It's a matter of balancing the needs of the end usage.