To begin my review, I must apologize for the delay in posting. It has been a bloody zoo here lately.
The Cold Steel "Fighting Tomahawk" DVD is a 2 volume set. Audio and video quality is excellent. The DVD is a very straightforward and comprehensive primer on the tomahawk and totally free of the kind of bombastic hype that usually surrounds Lynn Thompson.
The introduction begins with Lynn Thompson describing, briefly, the history of the tomahawk and the statement that use of the tomahawk in combat needs extreme aggression to be successful. I can't agree more.Nothing is 100%, but this is most generally true.
A lot of time is spent talking about training safely. keeping training realistic, and safety equipment. This, I feel is extremely important, as serious injuries can occur if proper precautions are not taken.Also, a brief time is given to sharpening and repair of 'hawks.
Mr. Thompson says that the tomahawk is a 1 shot-1 kill weapon. While tomahawks can cause debilitating injuries, that's pushing it a bit.
One thing that I really liked was a detailed explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of the tomahawk as a weapon, based on its shape, length, and weight distribution, and a good explanation as to why certain things are possible or not possible in real fights.
Fighting is broken down into discussions of grip, stance, footwork, blocking, parrying and attack, with and without other weapons. Defense is given proper attention. Amazingly Mr. Thompson advocates running away as the first, best option, if possible. Given the mall ninja tone of some of CS advertising, I didn't expect advocation of this extremely common-sensical option.
The training is broken up in a systemized way, well organised, and balanced well between lecture and demonstration.
There are short bonus sections on defense against a bayonet and throwing the 'hawk. They are of limited usefulness, but worth watching. It's always good to have an extra tool in your belt.
Overall, an excellent effort. Worth the money for the beginner to get the fundamentals down right.
messer454- please resend me your addy. Thank you
