SOG Fasthawk Vs. Standard Hatchet for Bug Out Bag

Published on October 24, 2014
Duration: 10:19

This video compares the SOG Fast Hawk to a standard hatchet for bug-out bag utility. The presenter, an experienced shooter, evaluates their performance in chopping, splitting, and fine woodworking tasks. The SOG Fast Hawk is noted for its portability and defensive capabilities, while the hatchet excels in heavier tasks. Ultimately, the decision hinges on the trade-off between weight and functionality for specific survival needs.

Quick Summary

The SOG Fast Hawk is lighter and more portable, featuring a defensive spike, making it ideal for lighter tasks and self-defense. A standard hatchet, though heavier, excels at chopping and splitting larger wood due to its robust construction and better steel quality like 440 high-carbon.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: SOG Fast Hawk in Bug Out Bag
  2. 00:34Questioning the SOG Fast Hawk's Utility
  3. 00:58Introducing the Standard Hatchet
  4. 01:14Weight Comparison: SOG vs. Hatchet
  5. 02:12Testing: SOG Fast Hawk on 2x4 (Light Chopping)
  6. 02:54Testing: Hatchet on 2x4 (Light Chopping)
  7. 03:33Comparison of Chopping Results
  8. 03:55Testing: SOG Fast Hawk Splitting 2x4
  9. 04:25Testing: Hatchet Splitting 2x4
  10. 04:43Testing: SOG Fast Hawk Fine Woodworking
  11. 05:35Testing: Hatchet Fine Woodworking
  12. 06:12Material Breakdown: SOG Fast Hawk
  13. 06:51Material Breakdown: Hatchet
  14. 07:30Defensive Features: Spike vs. Hammer
  15. 08:15Unscientific Testing Summary
  16. 08:36Surprise Performance of SOG on Small Tasks
  17. 09:08Sharpening Considerations
  18. 09:30Final Decision: Sticking with SOG Fast Hawk
  19. 10:10Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the SOG Fast Hawk and a standard hatchet for survival?

The SOG Fast Hawk is lighter, more portable, and features a defensive spike. A standard hatchet, while heavier, offers superior performance for chopping and splitting larger wood due to its larger head and better steel quality (e.g., 440 high-carbon vs. 420HC).

Which tool is better for fine woodworking tasks in a survival scenario?

For fine woodworking and detailed tasks, the SOG Fast Hawk often proves more effective due to its blade geometry and out-of-the-box sharpness, allowing for better scraping and shaving compared to a hatchet's thicker blade.

What are the material specifications of the SOG Fast Hawk and a typical hatchet?

The SOG Fast Hawk uses 420 high-carbon steel (Rockwell 51-52) with a polymer handle and is not full tang. A comparable hatchet might use 440 high-carbon steel with a more durable American hickory wood handle, often with a full tang construction.

Is the extra weight of a hatchet justified over a SOG Fast Hawk for a bug-out bag?

The justification depends on your needs. If heavy wood processing is critical, the extra 9.5 ounces of a hatchet might be worth it. For general utility, portability, and defensive capability, the SOG Fast Hawk is a strong choice.

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