SOG Survival Hawk: Fill the gap

Between a trusty fixed blade and a full-on hatchet is – Survival Hawk. Active Junky’s taken this one to South America as part of multi-sport adventure trips. The goal was utility in the smallest, lightest form factor available. Along with a stay-sharp, sure-cutting blade, Hawk is adept at moderate cutting challenges, substituting superior balance and perseverance for high impact. Instead, precise aim and consistent delivery from the 3” blade chew through limbs, logs and small stumps. At under 20oz. and only about 12” long, Hawk musters 2CR, 47-49 hardness steel in a multi-purpose head. Hammer with the center, then pry and pull nails (and cut balky wire) with the narrow end. Now deploy the firestarter rod in the handle, saving the paracord wrapping on the handle for first aid or shelter-making duty. Wrap it up in the well-conceived ballistic nylon sheath and its time to fly.

Pros: Gritty functions. Unassailable brand credentials. Stealth look.

Cons: Handle can get slippery. Blade shape catches in bushes and roots. Black is easy to lose in brush.

Tester Comments: "The more Hawk is used, the more functions it takes on. In Chile, the hatchet’s leverage came into play frequently to move and handle logs (like a combo crowbar and claw). Placing a thumb on the serrated handle rib added stability to the paracord-wrapped handle."  

Key Attribute: Size

Best for: Backcountry, adventure travel and basecamp use if splitting chores are minimal