which one pt. 2

[Sharptooth]

Thanks Dances With Knives for your first reply . Now for another question for all those out there . Price isn't really that big of an issue. So for the money who has the best craftsmanship, durability, and usability among the bunch. The reason I say the money doesn't matter is because I want this to be a functioning piece of equipment that I can pass down to my kids or grandkids. Also if anyone knows the answer to this question its a bonus. I have in my possesion approximately 200 feet of railroad track that is dated 1912. is this stuff useable in anyway to make a tomahawk. If it is I would like to use some of it because it came from the railroad near my small town not long after statehood. All replies are greatly appreciated.

 

[Crayola]

My guess si that you could use it, I'm just not too sure how good it would be. But I think it would be fine. Many hawks are made by welding a steel bit to a mild steel... um... rest of the hawk! I bet hawks used to be made of an iron body with a steel bit, so I can't see why a piece of railroad track can't be used for the body of a hawk. I have been wrong before though, and a maker would want a pice to test out before anyways, but I'd bet you'll be safe.

I am just getting into hawks myself, and I'm saving for an H%B hawk as my first. If you want to spend the bucks, RMJ forge makes high quality traditonal pieces, and high quality modern pieces (Eagle Talon, and the rexcue axe or whatever it is called are examples of the latter.) ATC has their Next Gen Ranger which looks like an AMAZING war hawk, great for beating the Taliban or making camp. There are also lots of other custom makers who can make hawks for you. If I were you, I'd look at 2hawks page, RMJ's page, ATC's page, and send out some e-mails. Also, post on the shop talk forum that you want to know who custom makes tomahawks, and you should get a list of more contact info. Good luck!

 

[Ad]

I like the idea of one integral unit, like the RMJ Forge Eagle Talon hawk. No worries about the head/haft juncture.

 

[BlueFlintHawk]

The Eagle Talon does indeed look like one of the most impressive hawks ever. However... I chose the ATC NG Ranger - never heard of ANYONE breaking the head/handle and it has a free replacement guarantee if by some miracle, something did happen. However... I have heard that the way the Eagle Talon came about is some Special Ops people asking Ryan to make a hawk to fit THEIR needs.

RMJ Forge has a modern hawk or two, but is mostly traditional pieces. ATC is a tad more of a modern hawk company and I LOVE The VN Tactical and the RR Spike I got from them. Their NG is also amazing... beyond belief.

I know one of MY aims is to get a Two Hawks hawk. I've heard TOO many good things about his work not to get one. All these people/companies make amazing hawks that no one would be disappointed with... what looks the best to you?

 

[DancesWithKnives]

Are you looking for a throwing hawk, fighting hawk or a general camping hawk? Modern or traditional? Your intended primary application and personal taste will drive the choice.

 

[Hoplophile]

Hey Sharptooth, I would cut a piece of that rail into a couple anvils if I were you. Then you can build a small gas forge for not much money and make your own tomahawks from car leaf springs, MoPar Torsion bars (there is a maker on the forums that makes nice spike hawks from theses) old rail road spikes marked HC for high carbon (not regular RR spikes unless you plan to use some other kind of steel for the bit), rought iron with steel for the bit, all kinds of stuff. If you have a spring shop locally you can usually get remnants from them for little money by the pound. As far as purchasing a factory made hawk, ATC NG Ranger. That polymer handle looks like it would soak up a lot of vibration, the grip texture is cool too. Nothing against RMJ Forge by any means. Ryan's work is awesome I just prefer the ATC NG set up more. Good luck with whichever way you choose to go. Be warned however, hawking is highly addictive. There is a good possibility that you will end up with several hawks rather than just one. Don't say we didn't warn you.

 

[mwkerr]

Checkout the 'hawks that are offered by Twohawks, if you want a tool that you can pass on to the next generation, one that is just gorgeous to handle as well as to look at, something that will do work or throw or use while butchering, you want one of his 'hawks. You will find that the most difficult part will be deciding on which one you want. If you want to throw a hawk, his competition 'hawk is the best I've ever hurled! Believe me, your money will be well spent! (and, you'll also acquire a great new friend)