I recently forged another axe. This one is made by taking a chunk of mild steel that is 3/4 X 2 X 4-1/4 inch and slitting a hole and rifting it to shape, then splitting the front to insert a 5160 high carbon steel bit in it. I then welded the bit and heat treated it. I don't have the process photoed step by step but I do have the handle shaping almost all covered. Here is the head in the thrmo cycling process.
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5592/15029531666_3c4dd7db6e_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oU7h9j)
Now for the handle.
I use 5/4 kiln dried Hickory. First I saw the profile and cut the wedge kerf in the top.
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5560/15065016142_9177a9b81b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oXf9rC)
I also started removing the extra material with the band saw.
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3842/14878731240_54f75ffa3d_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oEMoqY)
I'll be back shortly.
I use this file/rasp called a Cabinet Maker's Rasp to get things started.
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3919/14878758189_a70196628a_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oEMwrB)
I keep checking it till it will start in then continue the process till it will drive on with a moderate amount of effort but not at the risk of breaking the wood.
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3903/15062422471_57a11162e1_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oX1Rra)
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3911/15065117212_0c13256afa_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oXfEud)
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5555/14878805467_2381804167_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oEMLuK)
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5576/14878652739_18250b7b08_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oELZ6v)
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5585/14878711980_86e3db75bd_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oEMhGU)
You may have noticed that I shaped and finished the area just under the head. I did this because it would be very hard to access it after the head is on. Now is the time to final fit and wedge it.
Here is the finished Axe.
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5595/14886954678_33323d166f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oFvwYo)
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3870/15070528211_1f04e4d50c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/oXJoZi)
This axe is very much a user, one to take in the woods or carry in the pickup. I leave the handle with a sandy finish going to about 120 grit.
Great as usual Lin!
Lin that is a awesome build. Thanks for posting!
I believe that one will be coming to the north woods in Minnesota. A treat to myself :thumbsup:
Another fantastic Axe Lin! These axes are the perfect mix of elegance and serious tool.
I'd love to get one from you someday.
Is there a wooden wedge in there or a metal creation?
Also why the extended handle through the eye, looks or a function?
Thank you gentlemen.
Tom, the extension is both. I like the look but it seems to add a little security as well. The wood wedge swells the end slightly on the outside. The eye is hourglass in cross section also. I have to say though that these axes are forged completely by eye and certainly don't have the precision or look of one that is off a machine.
Chad, I hope it serves you well. :campfire:
Really nice axe Lin. I'm one who knows from field use just how good these axe's are.
I'm just about to finish clearing over 3 miles of trails using one your hand axe and a small saw. I have to pack the saw gas so I use your axe for all the small limbs. These trails will be again used to move cattle after 15 to 20 years, so they are a bit wider than just a horse trail. ( I have to hunt for the old trails a lot due to regrowth)
I'm gonna start leaving that little extra wood on every handle I put in from now on. All the work I did trapping last winter and the trail clearing, the handle is just as tight as when you sent it.
Your the axeman in my book. RS
Thank you Robin. :campfire:
Love this style! Beautiful form for great function.
Simplistically Beautiful !