True enough, but then there's the matter of extraction. Bone has a tendency to grab and hold. Last thing you want in a fight is to have to call a "time out" while you place your boot on your former opponent's skull as you try to wrench your implement free.
I was taught to use the extended reach of the 'hawk to slash at vulnerable points - major veins or arteries - or better still to the face where you can inflict terrible damage to your opponent and thoroughly demoralize his remaining friends. You can also do the unexpected by letting the haft of the 'hawk slip through your hand so that your grip is just under the head, quickly step forward and deliver a smash to the face while blocking with the other arm or leg. Once you've rocked your opponents' head back then you can use the blade to hit the soft spots. Speed and aggression are your friends. 'hawks also play well in defense - there are a lot of deflecting / hooking moves you can make that lead to great offensive transitions.
I have that same model 'hawk, but with a black haft. I keep it razor sharp.
Knives are a different matter entirely. This individual has some very useful information regarding knife fighting.
I was being a bit facetious :-) but appreciate the comment and info .. will check the link out after yardwork .. thanks !