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+-- Thread: question for the axe experts (/showthread.php?tid=7057363)
question for the axe experts - DaveParkis - 07-17-2015
Found this little baby today at an etstea sale. Little bit of surface rust and there is some slight pitting well back from the edge. Here's the question: shouldn't this have a longer handle? This one is only about 16" and its offset.
Thanks!!
Re: question for the axe experts - enjuneer - 07-17-2015
It looks about right for a hewing hatchet. I have a similar one from my grandfather. While axes/hatchets came in many different configurations, the axes generally had a much beefier head, especially in the eye and poll area.
Re: question for the axe experts - rjdankert - 07-17-2015
It's a broad hatchet for hewing. That handle length should be ok. The handle is offset to protect your knuckles in use. The head is symmetrical so it can be used righty or lefty depending on the side the handle is put in.
Nice find!
Re: question for the axe experts - AHill - 07-17-2015
Hewing hatchet, it is. Set up for right-handed use. Hewing hatchets are used for close-up work like shaping handles or bowls, rounding over handles, and/or carving.
Re: question for the axe experts - JClark - 07-17-2015
Awesome hatchet! Now, if it's still ground to a chisel edge and not reground to a knife edge by someone it's a rare find! It seems like most I find are ground improperly by a well-meaning former owner.
Josh
Re: question for the axe experts - ncosman - 07-18-2015
Total Score, YOU SUCK!
Re: question for the axe experts - Bibliophile 13 - 07-19-2015
You wouldn't want to swing this thing from the end of the handle. You'll want to choke up on it a bit, so your knuckles just clear the workpiece.