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Hawk handle lenght

M

MIG

Joined
Feb 22, 2006
Messages
11
Hi all,
I need some suggestions regarding tomahawk handle lenght. In my country I could only find handles with lenght respectively 18 and 22 inches.
Which is the most indicated to train with tomahawk?
 
I think Vector001 has a good formula of 1-1.5 ounces per inch. So if your hawk weighs 22oz, a 22" haft will be better.

Unfortunately, most makers use premade hafts, which are usually too short since they are designed for people using the hawk as an afterthought, not a primary tool.
 
Thanks for the info. I actually have a trail hawk that I 'm going to modify.
The weight of the head is 380 gr. that should be 13,4 oz.
Is it right?
 
Yes thats right, 380 g = 13.4041 oz. The hawk head im interested in is 1.75 lb or 28. oz so according to Vectors formula that would mean i should put a 28 inch haft on this hawk? Seems like it would be incredably unwieldy.
 
After using tomahawks for over 20 years I have found perfection is 20" - 24" (or 51cm-61cm) depending on the size and weight of the head.
 
Thanks Wolf, but in relation to Trail hawk I have, weight 380 gr. What do you think should be the best lenght for a correct manipulation?
 
I have a 22' on my trail hawk. I love it! Long enough to some good momentum going, but not so long to get unruly.
 
MIG said:
Thanks Wolf, but in relation to Trail hawk I have, weight 380 gr. What do you think should be the best lenght for a correct manipulation?
Click to expand...

That's like asking the correct length for the leg of your pants - it's whatever fits you. My Vec hawk has a 24" handle and I often wish it was 30". The reasons for a shorter handle, to me, would be easier to use in tight spaces and easier to carry.
 
Here's a 24" Vec Hawk using the Trail Hawk head:
100_0185.jpg


It's not unwieldy at all, in fact, I think 24" is the sweet spot for a Trail.

Here's a 28" Vec Hawk:
100_0142.jpg


I wouldn't go this long on a Trail Hawk head again. Not because it's unwieldy, because it isn't, just that I don't think the extra 4" of length really gives much at that weight of a head. Now, a Frontier, Norse, or Pipe hawk would do great at 28-30", IMO.


FWIW, unless you really want to fool with carving and/or fitting a new haft, I think all the CS hawks now come with a 22" haft, which is close enough for the Trail.
 
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