What kind of steel do these use?
Well the way I see it the "tactical" tomahawk has three uses listed in order of likelihood=
Breeching vehicles and structures
Bushcraft
CQB
If you just want one that you can hurt people with then get anything, as a matter of fact just get a decent roofing hammer since they are better made that a lot of the crap out there.
If you want one just for bushcraft you are probably better off just getting a Gransfords Brooks hatchet.
If you want to breech structures and vehicles the only one for me is the RMJ Shrike. I have a class certified through the University of Iowa on Breeching for First Responders. Our primary tool is the shrike because it allows any first responder to carry one on his person and not have to get back to their vehicle after realizing they need it.
Can you do this with the other hawks out there? Define your needs and choose your tool, not the other way around- George
You can do that with about any $20 Hawk, or Hatchet...Can you do this with the other hawks out there? Define your needs and choose your tool, not the other way around- George
You can do that with about any $20 Hawk, or Hatchet...
Not really that impressive, and damn sure does not need anything near as expensive as a RMJ Shrike...
Actually I just got through cutting the windshield out of a Chrysler Minivan using a $3 Harbor Freight Automatic Center Punch and a $5 Folding Pruning Saw. I had the front window out before the Jaws were set up. I'll check and see if the Department Photographer had time to take pictures this time or if she was to busy dragging line to put the car out.OK, please do it and post pics.
Mainly just a matter of technique and practice...I agree that it is easy to take a windshield out, what is not easy is doing it in such a way that limits the debris that enter the passenger compartment and onto the victims.
I have a big Red Toolbox on wheels with cool lights all around it. Why would I want to limit myself to one tool?! Generally While I am removing the Windshield and Windows that need to be gone for Patient or Medic Safety, someone else is removing the Battery Cables, Someone is prepping the Jaws or other tools to rip the car open like a tuna can.As far as the center punch and pruning saw go, can you go from taking out the windshield and use them to pop the trunk or hood? How about going through some sheet rock or cinder block? How about popping a door lock? How about getting through the window that is reinforced with wire? I have no interest in carrying around a golf bag full of different tools.
While a Hawk might work for Rescue, I am generally under a time crunch. I'll use the right tool and do it in half the time. I have tried to pry doors open with bars and axes on wrecked cars, usually doesn't work well...Again, a hammer makes an awesome tool for hitting people. Just sucks for rescue and bushcraft. Most of the hawks out there fall into the same category.
When it comes to any edged weapon, a tool knife will make a good weapon, the same is not true for a self defense knife being used as a tool.- George