The Spyderco Genzow HatchetHawk is a unique tool that defies easy categorization. It's the result of a three-way collaboration between Spyderco, German outdoor expert Martin Genzow, and renowned American axe-maker Council Tool. This combination of expertise results in a multifunctional bushcraft tool designed to be used as a knife, hatchet, and even a hammer.
As its name suggests, the HatchetHawk is meant to be a versatile all-rounder. You can choke up on it for precision work, swing it for light chopping, or use the hammer poll for driving stakes. The design is meticulous, with every detail carefully considered, making it a standout piece in the world of bushcraft gear.
In this review, I'll take a close look at the HatchetHawk as a standalone tool and then put it through field tests comparing it to the popular Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet. The latter is a well-known Swedish design, also priced similarly, and widely used by bushcraft enthusiasts.
Note: Spyderco provided this HatchetHawk for review. As always, The Prepared Promise ensures that our reviews remain unbiased, regardless of the gear’s origin.
**The bottom line:** While the HatchetHawk is an impressive and innovative design, we believe that for most preppers, a more traditional wooden-handled hatchet would serve better as the main chopper. The HatchetHawk requires precise technique, and without experience, users may find it frustrating and tiring. It's best suited for experienced bushcrafters, not the average user.
**Specs:**
- Overall length: 16 inches
- Head length: 6.14 inches
- Edge: 2.76 inches, flat ground
- Steel: 5160 tool steel
- Handle: Polypropylene and aluminum
- Sheath: Leather
- Weight: 1lb 9oz
- MSRP: $270.00
- Street price: $190.00
**The head:**
The HatchetHawk's head is crafted by Council Tool in Waccamaw, North Carolina, known for producing high-quality axes. The 5160 steel used here is tough and easy to sharpen, though it does require some care to prevent rusting. The flat-ground edge is thin but well-suited for the lightweight design, allowing it to bite deeply into wood despite its low weight.
The hammer poll is shaped to reduce weight while still providing comfort when using the tool in a choked-up position. The convex face of the hammer helps minimize the risk of bending stakes if struck at an angle. The edges and corners are rounded for comfort, although this makes it less ideal for striking a ferro rod. The Spyderco hole, while purely decorative, adds a unique touch to the design.
**The handle:**
The handle is made from polypropylene and features an aluminum core for rigidity. It's comfortable and durable, but unlike traditional wooden handles, it's not easily replaceable. If damaged, finding a suitable replacement could be difficult in the field. The handle has a fawn’s foot design for secure grip and a traditional curve that allows for multiple gripping positions. A lanyard hole is included, adding versatility for carrying.
**Sheath:**
The leather sheath is beautifully crafted, with clean stitching and practical features like a belt loop and grommets for lashing. However, it's quite bulky, which doesn't suit my preferred way of carrying a hatchet. I opted for a custom leather sheath instead, incorporating a paracord loop and a firesteel toggle for added functionality.
**Field testing and use:**
Over the past year, I've used the HatchetHawk around my property for small tasks. I also tested it alongside the Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet, a well-regarded alternative. While the HatchetHawk has an attractive design and quality materials, I found it less forgiving than the Wildlife Hatchet. Its synthetic handle transmits more shock, leading to quicker fatigue, and the thin head requires precise strikes to be effective. For casual users or those without significant experience, the Wildlife Hatchet is a more practical choice.
**Conclusions:**
For experienced axemen, the HatchetHawk offers a unique blend of materials and design. But for the average prepper, a traditional wooden-handled hatchet like the Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet is a better investment. It's easier to use, more forgiving, and far more practical in the long run. While the HatchetHawk is visually appealing and technically impressive, it's too specialized for most people's needs.
Jiangmen Pengjiang Guanqi Trading Co., Ltd. , https://www.kwunkeeindustry.com