Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes are a set of three stainless steel throwing axes designed for casual axe throwing and recreational use. Marketed towards beginners and experienced throwers alike, this set promises a balanced design, sharpened edges, and the added novelty of a built-in bottle opener. For a price point hovering around $55, Smith & Wesson aims to deliver an accessible and entertaining axe throwing experience.

My foray into the world of throwing axes began with a desire to find a fun, engaging outdoor activity to share with friends. I was looking for a set that was both durable and easy to handle for beginners, without sacrificing the thrill of hitting the target. The promise of three axes for the price and the brand recognition of Smith & Wesson made the Hawkeye Throwing Axes a compelling option.

Upon unboxing, the first impression was one of solid construction. The stainless steel axes felt weighty and well-balanced, hinting at the potential for accurate throws. The stonewash finish gave them a rugged aesthetic, and the included nylon sheath seemed practical for storage and transport, although it felt somewhat basic.

Compared to other throwing axe sets I considered, the Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes stood out due to their unique three-axe configuration and the inclusion of a bottle opener. Other options, like single-piece forged axes from brands known for axe throwing competitions, seemed too specialized and expensive for my needs. I initially chose this set over cheaper, no-name brands, hoping the Smith & Wesson name would ensure reasonable quality.

My initial excitement was tempered slightly by the somewhat rough finish on the edges of the axes. However, the overall design and feel of the axes were promising. I was eager to get them to the range and see how they performed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes took place at a makeshift target range set up in my backyard. Using a large, seasoned tree stump as a target, I invited a few friends over for an afternoon of axe throwing. The weather was dry and mild, perfect for outdoor activities.

The initial throws were a mixed bag. Some axes stuck cleanly into the target, while others glanced off or bounced back. It took some experimentation to find the right stance, grip, and throwing motion.

The axes felt well-balanced in hand, but the sharpened edges on all three sides of the axe head proved to be a double-edged sword. While they theoretically offered more opportunities for the axe to stick, they also made handling the axes a bit precarious. The bottle opener, while a fun novelty, didn’t seem practical during the actual throwing session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, the Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes have held up reasonably well. The stainless steel blades have retained their sharpness, although I did notice some minor chipping along the edges after repeated impacts with the wooden target. The stonewash finish has proved to be fairly durable, resisting scratches and rust.

Despite some wear and tear on the blades, the overall construction of the axes still feels solid. The nylon sheath, however, has shown signs of wear, with some stitching coming loose after repeated use.

Maintaining the Hawkeye Throwing Axes is relatively simple. After each use, I wipe down the blades with a cloth to remove any dirt or debris. I also occasionally apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

Compared to my previous experience with a single, cheaper throwing axe, the Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes offer a more engaging and versatile throwing experience. The ability to throw three axes in quick succession adds a fun, competitive element to the activity. However, the quality of the Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes does not live up to the build quality of more expensive single-piece axes.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson. This well-known manufacturer inspires confidence in the product.
• Blade Finish: Stonewash. The stonewash finish gives the axes a rugged, aesthetically pleasing look and provides some protection against scratches and rust.
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel. Stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance and edge retention, making it suitable for outdoor use.
• General Application: Casual. This highlights that the axes are designed for recreational throwing rather than professional or competitive use.
• Application: Casual. This reiterates the intended use case.
• Color: Stainless Steel. The natural color of the stainless steel gives the axes a clean, industrial look.
• Overall Length: 10.3 in. This compact size makes the axes easy to handle and transport.
• Blade Length: 1.75 in. The relatively short blade length suggests a focus on throwing accuracy rather than chopping power.
• Sheath Material: Nylon. Nylon is a durable and water-resistant material, making it suitable for a sheath.
• Fabric/Material: Steel. This confirms that the axes are primarily constructed from steel.
• Weight: .5 lbs per axe, 2 lbs combined. The .5 lb weight of each axe makes it easy to throw for extended periods.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes perform adequately for casual axe throwing. The balanced design and sharpened edges allow for reasonably accurate throws, although they require some practice to master.

The axes’ strengths lie in their affordability, portability, and ease of use. However, their weaknesses include the somewhat rough finish, the potential for chipping on the blades, and the limited utility of the bottle opener. While the sharpened edges on three sides may seem advantageous, they also increase the risk of accidental cuts if not handled carefully.

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes meet basic expectations for a recreational throwing axe set. However, they do not exceed them in terms of build quality or performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes feature a simple and functional design. The axes are made from a single piece of stainless steel, with a stonewash finish for added durability.

The axes are comfortable to hold, thanks to their compact size and balanced weight distribution. However, the sharp edges on the axe head can make them a bit unwieldy to handle, especially for beginners. The built-in bottle opener adds a novelty factor, but it doesn’t significantly enhance the user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes are reasonably durable, thanks to their stainless steel construction. However, the blades are prone to chipping after repeated impacts with hard targets.

Maintaining the axes is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling will help to prevent rust and prolong their lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes come with a black nylon sheath that holds all three axes together. There are limited customization options available for these axes, as they are designed primarily for casual throwing.

While aftermarket grips or wraps could potentially be added to the handles, these modifications would likely not significantly improve the performance or functionality of the axes. The axes are compatible with most standard axe throwing targets.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes

Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes?

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes are perfect for casual campers, backyard enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun and affordable outdoor activity. They are also suitable for beginners who are new to axe throwing and want to learn the basics without investing in more expensive equipment.

Individuals seeking high-performance throwing axes for competitive axe throwing or professional use should skip this product. Those who prioritize superior build quality and edge retention may also be disappointed.

A must-have accessory for this product is a quality axe sharpening stone to maintain the blade edges.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes

The Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes are a decent set of throwing axes for casual recreational use. They offer good value for the price, thanks to their stainless steel construction, balanced design, and set of three axes.

The price is justified, as the Hawkeye Throwing Axes provide an accessible entry point into the world of axe throwing without breaking the bank. However, buyers should be aware of the potential for chipping on the blades and the limited utility of the bottle opener.

I would recommend the Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes to anyone looking for a fun and affordable outdoor activity. If you’re ready to experience the thrill of axe throwing without emptying your wallet, this set is a solid choice. So, grab your Smith & Wesson Hawkeye Throwing Axes, gather some friends, and let the games begin!