RMJ’s tactical tomahawk is a welcome addition on the trail or in a self-defense scenario.

RMJ Tactical is known for their modern, tactical tomahawk designs. Part weapon and part tool, the RMJ Loggerhead represents the most recent of these models aimed for a hybrid use in campsite chores and self-defense scenarios. Tactical Knives’ Abe Elias field-tested the RMJ Loggerhead for the March 2014 issue of TK in an attempt to understand where the modern tomahawk fits in today’s tactical knife market.

The RMJ Loggerhead is built from a single piece of steel and features a hammer-pole design for added utility. According to Elias, “When you hold the handle of the Loggerhead, it automatically seats in your grip in such a way that, if you were to swing it without looking at the head, you would know you are in line with either striking edge.” The base of the RMJ Loggerhead also features a storage compartment for a sharpening stone.

With an overall length of 15.5 inches, the RMJ Loggerhead tomahawk is a serious striking weapon, giving its user a host of short- and mid-length self-defense options. According to Elias, “Since the head has two edges (one in the front of the head and one on the underside of the beard), you can also use a number of hooking and trapping techniques.” Elias also noted, “…If you choke up on the handle, you still can use the aggressive cutting edge for slashing and punching while the handle trails down your forearm, giving you something to block and deflect with.”

For the full review, check out the March 2014 issue of Tactical Knives, available on newsstands and digitally November 19, 2013. To subscribe, go to /.