Complete Hawkeye Reading Order Guide for New Marvel Readers

Looking to explore the world of Marvel’s greatest marksman? Whether you're curious about Clint Barton’s original stories or Kate Bishop’s modern flair, this complete Hawkeye reading order will walk you through every essential storyline and guide you on where to start.

Who Is Hawkeye? A Quick Overview for Beginners

Introduction to Clint Barton

Clint Barton, the original Hawkeye, debuted in Tales of Suspense #57 (1964). He began as a reluctant villain before joining the Avengers. Known for his sharp wit, sharpshooting skills, and rebellious streak, Clint represents the everyman among gods.

Introduction to Kate Bishop

Kate Bishop emerged in Young Avengers #1 (2005). She quickly earned her place, taking up the Hawkeye mantle with Clint’s blessing. Her humor, confidence, and Gen Z charm make her a fan favorite today.

Why Two Hawkeyes?

Unlike many hero legacies, both Clint and Kate share the title "Hawkeye" simultaneously. They’re not rivals but partners—something that makes reading both their arcs in tandem especially rewarding.

Why the Right Reading Order Matters

Understanding Character Evolution

Following the correct Hawkeye reading order helps new readers appreciate how both Clint and Kate develop over time, from sidekicks and soldiers to leaders and icons.

Marvel Continuity and Timeline Clarity

Marvel’s continuity can be a maze. Reading in the right order ensures major events, character relationships, and retcons all make sense.

Essential Hawkeye Comics Featuring Clint Barton

Tales of Suspense & The Avengers Origins

Clint’s early adventures as a solo vigilante and later as an Avenger lay the groundwork for everything that follows. Key issues include Tales of Suspense #57 and The Avengers #16.

Hawkeye (1983) Limited Series

In his first solo series, Clint is working for Cross Technological Enterprises and meets Mockingbird. Their relationship becomes central to many of his future arcs. Learn more about Mockingbird.

Solo Adventures in the 2000s

After several years as Ronin, Clint reclaims his Hawkeye identity. Look out for appearances in New Avengers and Hawkeye & Mockingbird.

Matt Fraction & David Aja’s Acclaimed Run

This Eisner Award-winning run from 2012-2015 is a must-read. Often the first stop in any Hawkeye reading order, it focuses on Clint’s downtime, his bond with Kate, and street-level heroism.

Kate Bishop's Rise as the New Hawkeye

First Appearance in Young Avengers

Kate debuts in Young Avengers #1. As the series progresses, she quickly proves she’s not just a sidekick. For more about the team, see Young Avengers.

Kate’s Solo Series

Hawkeye (2016) and Hawkeye: Kate Bishop (2021) spotlight her as a detective, mentor, and Avenger in her own right. Both are fun, fast-paced, and stylish reads for fans of the Disney+ show.

Relationship with Clint Barton

Through Fraction's run and later series, their partnership evolves from mentor-student to equals. Their dynamic is heartfelt, hilarious, and essential to any complete Hawkeye reading order.

Complete Hawkeye Reading Order (Clint + Kate)

Chronological Reading Order Table

• Tales of Suspense #57 (1964)
• The Avengers #16 (1965)
• Hawkeye Vol. 1 (1983)
• Young Avengers Vol. 1 (2005)
• Hawkeye Vol. 4 (2012–2015)
• All-New Hawkeye (2015–2016)
• Hawkeye Vol. 5 (Kate Bishop – 2016–2018)
• West Coast Avengers (2018)
• Hawkeye: Freefall (2020)
• Hawkeye: Kate Bishop (2021)

Recommended Starter Arcs

For Clint: Fraction’s My Life as a Weapon. For Kate: Hawkeye (2016) #1-6. These are great jumping-on points for new readers.

Team Books and Crossovers

Both Hawkeyes appear across Avengers titles, West Coast Avengers, and Secret Avengers. These help contextualize their roles in the larger Marvel universe.

Hawkeye in Major Marvel Events

• House of M: Clint’s fate takes a major turn.
• Civil War: Both Hawkeyes are caught in the ideological clash.
• Secret Invasion & Siege: Ronin and Mockingbird reunite.
• Secret Empire: Hawkeye leads a resistance cell.

Where to Read Hawkeye Comics – Digital & Print Options

Digital Platforms

Use Marvel Unlimited or Comixology for instant access to full runs, especially the Fraction and Kate Bishop series.

Print Collecting

Trade paperbacks are available at most comic stores. Essential collections include Hawkeye by Fraction & Aja and Hawkeye: Kate Bishop.

Related Characters You’ll Encounter in Hawkeye Comics

• Black Widow: Clint’s complex history with Natasha spans decades.
• Mockingbird: His ex-wife and frequent teammate.
• Young Avengers: Kate’s original team.
• Ronin: Clint’s masked identity during darker Marvel events.

Tips for New Readers Starting with Hawkeye

• Start with Fraction’s Hawkeye for Clint.
• Try Kate’s solo series if you prefer a modern tone.
• Use guides like this Hawkeye reading order to stay on track!

Visual Timeline: Hawkeye Reading Order Chart

Photo : Internet

FAQs about Hawkeye Reading Order

Should I read Clint or Kate first?

If you're a beginner, Clint’s stories offer historical context, but Kate’s comics are more accessible and modern.

Are the comics like the Hawkeye Disney+ show?

The show draws heavily from Fraction’s run and Kate’s solo adventures, with some creative liberties.

Where can I read Hawkeye comics legally?

Marvel Unlimited is the best option, followed by Comixology and local comic book shops.

How does Ronin fit into Hawkeye’s story?

Clint assumed the Ronin identity during darker times, especially after the events of House of M. Ronin represents his internal struggle.

Is Hawkeye part of the Avengers in every series?

Not always. Both Clint and Kate have solo adventures, but they regularly return to Avengers-affiliated teams.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love the Hawkeye Reading Order

Whether you follow Clint Barton’s journey from circus orphan to Avenger or Kate Bishop’s evolution into a sharp-shooting icon, the Hawkeye reading order offers action, humor, and heart. It’s a rewarding path filled with underdogs, arrows, and emotional depth.

Start with My Life as a Weapon or Hawkeye (2016), then use this reading order to explore deeper connections with characters like Mockingbird, Black Widow, and Ronin. Happy reading!