“M Stanley M” Double Bit Axes

[Slice-and-dice]

Common Michigan pattern double bit axes from the 80s and 90s are the Stanley models with 35/36 inch handles. Steel is hard, generally a nice axe. This model is marked “3 1/2 lbs” and numbered 59-235. The steel is stamped M STANLEY M as shown.

Have we ever solved the mystery of the M’s? Stands for Mann or Mexico, etc? Also, anyone know anything more about the production and specs, type of steel, wood type of handle as purchased, etc?

 

[Hickory n steel]

Usually the M on it's own is considered to have been Mann, but those are a little more slanted.
I know Stanley has had trouble with COO claims multiple different times in the past ,and I think hammers & axes were something they had a problem with back in the 80's or early 90's.

I remember in a past thread where conversations with a former employee were discussed, and it was said that Stanley ( maybe it was MANN ?) was having heads forged in Mexico and lying about the COO.
I think the handles were made here and said USA on them without specifying that only the handles were domestic.

 

[John A. Larsen]

One story about Ruddy Ruana, the Finn who made knives in Montana, was he marked the knives with an "M" which supposedly meant the blade was made for a Studebaker car/truck spring. I doubt that is what this "M" meant! Happy Thanksgiving to all! John

 

[Old Axeman]

John,
I knew Ruddy Ruana very well when I lived and worked out of Missoula Montana. His knife making goes back to WW II, like Randall. I still have and use some of his knives. My favorite is the special Smokejumper model that he made for me with a left hand horizontal cross draw sheath. He not only liked Studebaker (my first car) springs, he liked Elk antler handles. Good memories, Thanks. Bernie