10 Best Throwing Axes & Tomahawks (2025) | Marine Tested

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When you’re looking for a tool that’s equal parts fun and functional, nothing beats a good throwing axe or tomahawk. I’ve spent a lot of time putting these tools through their paces, from backyard targets to more demanding field use. The right choice isn’t just about sticking a blade in a log; it’s about balance, durability, and how it feels in your hand. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned thrower, understanding these factors is key to making a good pick.

This guide is built on hands-on testing with a focus on what actually matters for performance. We’ll look at a range of the best throwing axes and tomahawks, from classic designs to modern tactical options. I’ve focused on how they hold up under repeated use, the quality of the steel, and the overall value they offer. My goal is to give you a clear, no-nonsense look at which models are worth your money and which might not meet expectations for serious use.

Our Selection of the Best Throwing Axes & Tomahawks

Cold Steel Competition Throwing Tomahawk

Estwing Camp Tomahawk

SOG Fast Hawk Tomahawk

Smith & Wesson SWTK22S Throwing Tomahawk

Kershaw Outdoor Strike Tomahawk

United Cutlery M48 Tactical Tomahawk

Condor Tool & Knife Mini Tomahawk

Husky 14 inch Camp Hatchet

Gerber Downrange Tactical Tomahawk

CRKT Freyr Throwing Hawk

Cold Steel Competition Throwing Tomahawk

Cold Steel Competition Throwing Tomahawk

If you’re getting into competitive throwing or just want a reliable ‘hawk for practice, the Cold Steel Competition model is a top contender. It’s designed with a specific focus on balance and consistency, which are the two most important factors for sticking your throws. The head is made from 1055 carbon steel, which holds an edge well and is tough enough to handle the impact of missing the target and hitting wood or dirt. The handle is a thin, flexible piece of American hickory that has a surprising amount of spring to it, helping to absorb shock and reduce the chance of breaking.

What I like most about this tomahawk is its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s not a multi-tool or a tactical gadget; it’s a pure throwing instrument. The weight distribution is nearly perfect, making it easy to get a consistent rotation whether you’re throwing from a short or long distance. After hundreds of throws, the head remained firmly in place without any noticeable loosening. The only thing to keep in mind is that the cutting edge comes fairly sharp, but it’s meant for sticking into targets, not for chopping wood. For its intended purpose, it’s hard to beat.

Pros

  • Excellent balance makes it very easy to throw consistently.
  • Durable 1055 carbon steel head withstands heavy use.
  • Flexible hickory handle helps prevent breakage on bad throws.

Cons

  • The thin handle might feel too small for users with large hands.
  • Not designed for chopping or other camp tasks.

Estwing Camp Tomahawk

Estwing Camp Tomahawk

The Estwing Camp Tomahawk stands out immediately because of its one-piece construction. Forged from a single piece of steel, with the handle coated in a durable nylon-vinyl grip, this tool eliminates the main point of failure on most axes: the head-handle connection. This makes it incredibly robust. I’ve used it for everything from throwing at stumps to light splitting and kindling preparation around camp. It’s a versatile tool that feels like it can take a serious beating without any issues.

The balance is different from a dedicated throwing hawk like the Cold Steel. It’s a bit head-heavy, which is great for chopping but requires a slight adjustment in your throwing technique. Once you get the feel for it, though, it sticks reliably. The edge is sharp and holds up well. The solid build gives you a lot of confidence. It’s the kind of tool you can buy once and expect to last a lifetime, even with rough treatment. It’s more of a camp axe that throws well, rather than a pure competition thrower.

Pros

  • Indestructible one-piece forged steel construction.
  • Versatile enough for both throwing and camp chores.
  • Comfortable and secure grip reduces hand fatigue.

Cons

  • Heavier and more head-heavy than specialized throwing hawks.
  • The cutting edge may require more maintenance than a coated blade.

SOG Fast Hawk Tomahawk

SOG Fast Hawk Tomahawk

The SOG Fast Hawk is a modern tactical tomahawk that is surprisingly capable as a thrower. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry in a pack, and it features a distinctive recurve blade shape. The primary appeal here is its multi-functionality; it includes a sharp top spike and a pry notch built into the head. I found it to be very quick and agile in hand, and it rotates smoothly when thrown.

While it’s a lot of fun to throw, its lightweight nature means it requires a bit more finesse and a softer target to stick consistently. It’s made from 2Cr13 stainless steel, which is decent but not as tough as some higher-carbon steels. This is a great option if you want a tomahawk for tactical training or as a versatile survival tool that you can also practice throwing with. It’s less ideal for dedicated, high-volume throwing sessions where a heavier, more traditional design would be more durable.

Pros

  • Very lightweight and easy to handle and carry.
  • Tactical features like a spike and pry notch add utility.
  • Aggressive recurve blade design looks great and cuts well.

Cons

  • Light weight can make consistent sticking more challenging.
  • Steel may not be as durable as specialized throwing hawks for heavy use.

Smith & Wesson SWTK22S Throwing Tomahawk

Smith & Wesson SWTK22S Throwing Tomahawk

Smith & Wesson is known for firearms, but they’ve applied their brand to a line of tactical gear, including this throwing tomahawk. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel cheap. The design is straightforward with a 3.75-inch blade and a full-tang construction that runs through the handle, which is covered in textured Kraton grips. This gives it a solid, secure feel in hand. The black oxide coating helps with corrosion resistance.

In testing, I found it to be a very capable thrower for its price point. The balance is good, and it’s heavy enough to carry momentum without being unwieldy. The handle is comfortable and provides a non-slip grip, which is important for safety. It’s not going to have the refined feel or the exact balance of a premium competition model, but for someone who wants to get started with throwing without a big investment, it’s an excellent choice. It’s a workhorse that gets the job done.

Pros

  • Excellent value for the price, very affordable.
  • Full-tang construction provides great durability and strength.
  • Comfortable, non-slip Kraton handle offers a secure grip.

Cons

  • Fit and finish are functional but not as refined as higher-end brands.
  • The sheath included is very basic and may not be long-lasting.

Kershaw Outdoor Strike Tomahawk

Kershaw Outdoor Strike Tomahawk

Kershaw brings its reputation for quality knives to the tomahawk world with the Outdoor Strike. This is a robust tool designed for hard use. It features a 3.25-inch drop-point blade made from 65Mn carbon steel, which is known for its toughness and ability to hold a sharp edge. The handle is a reinforced polymer that is both lightweight and very strong, with an aggressive texturing for grip. It also includes a pry tip and a hammer poll on the back of the head.

This tomahawk feels substantial and tough. It’s heavier than the SOG Fast Hawk, which gives it better chopping power and makes it stick more authoritatively. The balance is good for throwing, though it’s clearly built to be a multi-role tool first. I was impressed with its overall durability during testing; it showed very little wear even after repeated impacts. If you need a tomahawk that can serve as a survival tool, a camp axe, and a reliable thrower, the Kershaw is a strong candidate.

Pros

  • Very durable 65Mn steel head holds an edge well.
  • Multi-functional design includes a hammer poll and pry tip.
  • Aggressively textured handle provides an excellent, secure grip in all conditions.

Cons

  • Heavier weight may not be ideal for prolonged throwing sessions for some users.
  • The polymer handle, while strong, doesn’t have the classic feel of wood.

United Cutlery M48 Tactical Tomahawk

United Cutlery M48 Tactical Tomahawk

The United Cutlery M48 is the tomahawk that gained fame from its appearance in popular media, and it’s a seriously imposing piece of gear. It’s a large, tactical tomahawk with a massive spike opposite the primary blade. The head is constructed from 420 stainless steel, and the handle is a glass-reinforced nylon. The design is focused on tactical applications, but it is also a very capable thrower if you have the space for it.

Throwing the M48 is a unique experience. Its size and weight require a stronger throw and more distance for a consistent rotation. It sticks with incredible force when it hits the target. This is not a subtle tool; it’s for someone who wants maximum impact and a dramatic presence. The build quality is good for the price, though it’s important to remember that it’s a specialized tool. It’s less about finesse and more about raw power. The included sheath is robust and well-designed.

Pros

  • Very intimidating and aggressive tactical design.
  • Extremely robust construction can handle intense use.
  • Powerful impact when throwing due to its weight and design.

Cons

  • Large size makes it less suitable for close-range or beginner throwing.
  • Quite heavy, which can lead to fatigue during long practice sessions.

Condor Tool & Knife Mini Tomahawk

Condor Tool & Knife Mini Tomahawk

Condor Tool & Knife is known for producing high-quality, rustic-looking blades and tools, and their Mini Tomahawk is no exception. This is a beautifully crafted tool with a classic look. The head is made from 1075 high-carbon steel and features a rustic finish, while the handle is made from seasoned hickory. It’s smaller and lighter than a full-size camp axe, making it perfectly suited for throwing.

What stands out with the Condor is the craftsmanship. The fit and finish are excellent, and it feels like a premium product. The balance is superb, making it very easy to throw accurately. Because it’s made from good quality carbon steel, the edge can be sharpened to a fine point and will hold up well. This is a great choice for someone who appreciates traditional tool aesthetics but demands modern performance. It’s a thrower that also has the chops to handle small camp tasks with ease.

Pros

  • Excellent craftsmanship and attractive, traditional design.
  • High-quality 1075 carbon steel takes and holds a great edge.
  • Perfect size and balance for both throwing and light camp work.

Cons

  • Higher price point than some other options on this list.
  • The rustic finish may require more maintenance to prevent rust.
Buying Guide: 10 Best Throwing Axes & Tomahawks (2025) | Marine Tested

Picking the right throwing axe isn’t just about grabbing the coolest-looking one. After testing a bunch of options, I’ve found that a few key factors separate a great thrower from a frustrating one. Here’s what I look for.

First, consider the head design. You’ll see two main types: axes and tomahawks. A traditional throwing axe usually has a heavier head and a bit more heft. It’s great for a solid, powerful stick. A tomahawk is typically lighter, with a thinner profile and a straighter handle. It spins faster and feels a bit quicker in the hand. For beginners, I often suggest starting with a tomahawk because the lighter weight and faster spin can make learning the rotation easier.

Next, look at the handle material. Wood is the classic choice. It feels great, absorbs shock well, and is easy to replace if it breaks. Synthetic handles, like fiberglass-reinforced nylon, are nearly indestructible, which is a huge plus if you’re worried about durability. Some high-end models use a single piece of steel, which is incredibly tough but can be harder on your hands during long sessions.

Weight and balance are everything. A good throwing axe should feel balanced in your hand, not too head-heavy or handle-heavy. The total weight is a personal preference, but I find that axes in the 1.5 to 2.5-pound range are the most versatile. They’re heavy enough to stick reliably but light enough that your arm won’t get tired after a few dozen throws. When you hold it, you should feel a natural pivot point.

Finally, think about the overall construction. How is the head attached? A slip-through eye (common on tomahawks) allows the head to slide onto the handle, which is historically accurate and makes for easy replacement. A wedged eye (common on axes) secures the head more permanently. For a secure fit, a solid one-piece design is hard to beat. Also, check the edge. A sharp edge is nice for splitting wood, but for pure throwing, a slightly blunter edge is often better as it’s less likely to chip or get damaged when it hits the target.

Remember, the best throwing axes & tomahawks (2025) | Marine Tested are the ones that feel right to you and match your skill level. Start with something balanced and durable, and you’ll be sticking throws in no time.

FAQ

What is the best distance to throw an axe?

This depends on the type of axe and your style, but a standard starting point is about 12 to 15 feet from the target. This is the typical distance for “one-spin” throws, where the axe makes a single rotation before hitting the target. As you get more comfortable, you can move back for more rotations. The key is consistency—pick a distance and stick with it until your throws are predictable.

Can you use a regular hatchet for throwing?

You can, but I don’t recommend it. Regular camping hatchets are built for chopping, not for the repeated impact of missing a target or hitting a hard surface. Their handles are often not designed to withstand the stress of throwing and are more likely to break. A dedicated throwing axe or tomahawk is built with this specific purpose in mind, making it a much safer and more reliable choice.

How do I stop my axe from bouncing off the target?

Bouncing is usually a sign of one of two things: an incorrect rotation or a target that’s too hard. First, make sure you’re releasing the axe with a consistent motion so it rotates the same way every time. Second, your target should be made of a softwood, like a large, vertical grain pine or cottonwood log. If the wood is too hard or dry, even a perfect throw will bounce right off.

What safety gear do I need for axe throwing?

Safety is non-negotiable. At a minimum, you need closed-toe shoes. I also strongly recommend wearing safety glasses to protect your eyes from any wood chips or splinters. Always make sure there is a large, clear area behind and around your target with no people, pets, or anything you don’t want to hit. It seems simple, but it’s the most important rule.

How do I maintain my throwing axe?

Maintenance is pretty straightforward. Keep the edge clean and dry to prevent rust. If it’s a carbon steel head, a light coat of oil after use will help. For the handle, especially if it’s wood, you can occasionally rub it with a bit of linseed oil to keep it from drying out and cracking. Check the head before each session to ensure it’s secure on the handle.

What makes a throwing axe different from a tactical tomahawk?

While there’s overlap, a throwing axe is designed primarily for sport and sticking a target. A tactical tomahawk is often built as a multi-tool, with features like a pry bar, hammer poll, or cutting edge for breaching. These added features can change the weight and balance, making a tactical model less ideal for consistent, accurate throwing compared to a purpose-built model from a list of the best throwing axes & tomahawks (2025) | Marine Tested.