Questions about VTAC and RR

Silas

Silas

Joined
Jul 22, 2004
Messages
2,628
Hello everyone, I have a couple of Questions I was hoping I could get answered. I just ordered the new VTAC and I'm awaiting it's arrival. I was also looking at the Roger's Rangers model. I was wondering how the hickory handles are on those models and also what the price is on a replacement Hickory handle from ATC? Never hurts to have an extra just in case.
I also wanted to know why all the synthetic handle models(except the Next gen Ranger) only have 14" handles? Were The 14" proven better in combat than the 16"? My last question is if their thinking of bringing back the Light Infantry model with the hammer poll? I really want an authentic looking one like the RR but would like the hammer. From what I've read on here I'm really looking forward to receiving my VTAC.
 
The shorter handle is easier to control in close quarters combat. The only problem with the Roger's Rangers "Light" Infantry 'Hawk is that the hammer poll did make it a pretty heavy 'hawk. I had one, and eventho' I have pretty good-sized arms (I'm not a "girlie-man" :D), it was too heavy for me in a full swing to stop or change direction quickly. You will find that the new VTAC is a VERY fast swinger and feels GREAT "in hand". The wood handles are ok, but they are heavier than the new "nylon" ones and don't feel (to me) as secure in the hand. I believe that you can buy replacement Rogers Rangers wood handles from ATC, but I think that it would take quite a bit to break one with normal use.
 
I've found that a longer handle is easier to use when chopping or working, and the shorter handle is easier to throw with. I have a Cold Steel Rifleman's 'Hawk and two handles, 19' and 16' iches. I also found that when using a heavier tomahawk like the Rifleman (32 ounces) it helps to use a longer handle on it.

By the way, do smaller and lighter tomahawks have a harder time throwing and sticking than heavier 'hawks? I'm still debating with myself on wether to buy the RR Spike or Minuteman. Although the Minuteman is cut more to my budget I wouldn't want to lose the power of the RR Spike.
 
Thanks for the quick responses, and your answers do make sense. I know
the RR with the spike is a good hawk. I'll be putting some money to the side every week for that one.
 
Just reading this. I can tell you that the RR Spike hawk is nice and "head" heavy compared to the more modern counterparts, and with one good swing, I'd say it's a "One-Chop Stop," in other words, if you connect with it on a good swing, something is gonna come off and not be reattachable... However, the VTAC and Next Gen Rangers are more evenly balanced for handling in CQB apps, and I haven't been able to test the chopping of the VTAC yet but will soon enough. The more even balance of the VTAC will make it easier to recover from, and redirect, a swing in CQB, or, if chopping wood, if you miss or have it bounce wrong (which happens on any tool -- axe or knife -- on occasion.). That, to me, makes the VTAC safer for use overall, especially when you are exhausted, however, any practice with a hawk should involve proper body position to avoid "self-chopping." :D

The wood handles are excellent on the RR hawks, and are ground thinner in the front, sort of like a wing, to make it cut through the air better for throwing apps. I used the RR spike on an extended survival trip and it was easy to handle and saved our a$ses in really shiity weather while we were out at least 70 miles from any nearby towns or civilization. I trusted the RR spkie with my life and would do so again in a heartbeat.

The 14" handles on the VTAC also make it easier for carry for mil personnel, since they will usually be loaded out with an LBV and all sorts of goodies. It doesn't get in the way as much, and its still superbly balanced against the weight of the head. I can;t wait to get out and put the VTAC through its paces and report back here.
 
:D That popped into my poor addled brain this mornin'. Glad you like it -- use away!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
knifedaddy84 said:
Whic one to carry while hunting or hiking?
Click to expand...
I'd carry the VTAC as it's smaller & lighter than the RR Spike 'Hawk.
 
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