Hi guys, I know this is an old thread, but in the interest of information I shall post regardless.
I was searching for information on this makers mark because I have one of these 1+1/2 pound small axes and there is very little online about them.
This axe is much higher quality and finish than modern MIC ones. I bought mine new from Kmart Australia in the late '70s and it was a fairly cheap item as I recall. They looked pretty well made, and mine has a very nicely shaped head with a thin bit and shaped cheeks, reminiscent of the Swedish made axes, not just a splitting wedge like the new ones these days.
It came with a good American Hickory handle, and mine still has the original handle which is still tight even though it appears to be only glued in.
The head was painted with a light blue paint, and mine still has about half of it's original paint
It definitely is a bi-metal blade with a soft steel poll and hardened bit insert. The transition between the two grades of steel is visible and obvious.
The logo is a stylised deer in a partial circle with Made in China surrounding the circle. I cannot see any Chinese character on mine, the stamp is quite light and fades away on that side
The axe has seen light to moderate use as a general camping axe and tent stake hammer, and has stood up very well. The steel hardness seems just right for the job. It has never rolled or chipped in wood, although a couple of very tiny dings from hitting rocks in the ground when splitting kindling.
If I see another one of these anywhere, I will definitely buy it, as I rate mine as good as any general use axe out there. As you can imagine, it has quite some nostalgia attached to it, having been with me so long and accompanied me on quite a few camping trips with many happy memories attached.
I will never knock something just because it has Made in China stamped on it. The Chinese, until recently, relied very heavily on simple hand tools to get the job done and this one is totally up to the task
If anyone ever discovers more about these older quality Chinese tools, I would very much like to hear it.
Kind regards to all,
Ian