K5 Tactical Spike Hawk Grip Question?????

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Jan 5, 2006
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Hey Guys...................
I am thinking about buying a K5 Tactical hawk. It looks like a good one. If anyone out there that has purchased one and used it could help me out I would appreciate it.
I was wondering about the aluminum scale handles and if anyone has experienced loss of grip because they are aluminum or if they maintain a good grip even when wet without gloves. Also how does it feel for overall weight and balance. Is it any good as a throwing hawk? Thanks.
Charlie
 
Thisoldknife,

I make them, so I will hold off on the personal "feel of the handle question and allow my customers to comment. ( I feel it is a great material for it's intended uses) BIASED:rolleyes:

As for the throwing capablities: I designed it as a breaching/multi use tool first. An improvised weapon(throwing not recommended here) And a thrower last.

Now having said that, I will be releasing some new models based on the design you have seen, that will be much better throwers and still have the same type of overall durability. These will be available Mid-February.
 
The cross-hatching on the aluminum is sharp, so it grips very well. It is aluminum, so it may wear over time, but mine is quite agressive.

So I got it out to see, got it wet, and swung it around. The Aluminum grips do pretty well, the only issue I could feel is that the powder coating is smooth, so the 3/8" space between the slabs is pretty slick compared to something like RMJ Forge's Parkerized finish. While that was noticed, please note that I didn't experience any loss of grip because of it: just being thorough and trying to pay attention to detail.

It balances about an inch abofe the top handle screw, or 6.5" down from the top of the 16.5" hawk. In practical terms, it swings well from any point on the slabs below the top handle screw.

At 3/8" stock this is a hefty hawk, and suits tactical needs in precisely the order that Eddie has stated. For a primary weapon hawk/light-infantry hawk I'd keep my eyes on Eddie's upcoming run.

I've not done a lot of tomahawk throwing, so I can't give an expert opinion your last question. I will say that there are better throwing hawks out there based on what little experience I have. This is a bruiser, not a cruiser.

Best wishes,
JB
 
The handles are "slick" on the sides for a reason. I found in prototyping that blisters and fatigue were caused if those areas were textured. These are the areas of the hand that are rubbing back and forth during swinging the most.

The textured flats are grippy because the "meaty" palm and finger tips contact these areas(which do not move much during swinging) Which allows for less slippage and still have comfort during long hard usage.

Also in throwing, the "slick" areas are the last to leave contact with the hand so they are the least drag spots.

The Mil spec Type III hard anodizing used on the scales is truly Diamond hard and it actually penetrates the steel, not just coat it. These can sit in ocean water for days without showing any corrosion.
 
IMHO the handles have good purchase, even when wet or wearing gloves. They are constructed as disaster or quick entry/exit tools. They also pack a punch.
They are however not the best hawks to take to your local hawkthrowing competition.
 
No issues with my K5 in terms of grippage. I like the shape and feel of the handles, really grips you back. When wearing nomex flight gloves, the handles (to me) grip you back even more.

You can't go wrong with the K5 tactical spike. Its a great hawk, unreal quality at an unbelievable price. Oh, and dealing with Eddie is as good as it gets. Looking forward to the new K5 designs.
 
I want to thank all you guys for the responses and help. Being a thrower was kind of last on my list anyway for a Hawk. Pretty neat to have the maker help too with advice. I think I will wait till mid-February when the new models come out to make my final decision as it is not too far away. Thanks for letting me know that bit of information. I am going to buy one for sure and may end up with two. This first one is one of the nicest I have seen for the money. Great looking sturdy hawk and very functional. Thanks again guys.
 
ekillian said:
Thisoldknife,



Now having said that, I will be releasing some new models based on the design you have seen, that will be much better throwers and still have the same type of overall durability. These will be available Mid-February.

I can't wait for these!!!! :eek:
 
ekillian said:
Thisoldknife,


Now having said that, I will be releasing some new models based on the design you have seen, that will be much better throwers and still have the same type of overall durability. These will be available Mid-February.

Eddie,

I just placed an order on your sight for a utility-spike hawk. Then I read your statement above about new models. What are the options on the new models?

Greg
 
The new models are still in the proto stage. I have put them on the backburner until the present run is completed and all orders are filled. Existing orders have priority at the moment.
 
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