About the use of metal for axes

I've used powder steel like ASP2005 for making axes, and it’s pretty solid stuff. It holds an edge really well and is tough, which is great for durability. I’ve had good results with a hardness of 60, but just keep in mind that it might be a bit brittle if you’re using the axe for heavy tasks. The key is to get the heat treatment right to avoid any problems.
 
Blues said:
When Nathan makes it, most of us will use a chainsaw to take the tree down rather than mark up the new ax.
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Yes Mate,I have to admit that what you said is right, which is also the reason why many well-known axe manufacturers have disappeared, I just prefer axes, and hobbies go beyond its functionality.
 
Cuddler said:
I've used powder steel like ASP2005 for making axes, and it’s pretty solid stuff. It holds an edge really well and is tough, which is great for durability. I’ve had good results with a hardness of 60, but just keep in mind that it might be a bit brittle if you’re using the axe for heavy tasks. The key is to get the heat treatment right to avoid any problems.
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That's pretty cool, but it's true that because ASP2005 is more expensive, I'm not sure if it's worth it, so I'm here to hear feedback from experienced people like you.👏🏻
 
I am with EngrSorenson EngrSorenson one this topic. I have swung an axe plenty from a life of splitting kindling to felling, limbing, and bucking. I don't want a high alloy axe unless it is S7. I don't have an issue with edge retention, ever. But a Nathan 3v axe I am sure is going to be worthy of hanging on the wall.
 
Seedy Lot said:
I don't want a high alloy axe unless it is S7. I don't have an issue with edge retention, ever. But a Nathan 3v axe I am sure is going to be worthy of hanging on the wall.
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I see. I think S7 or 4142 may be the best choice.Thanks mate👍
 
I like a hard axe for its superior edge holding. I really don't know why we don't see more experimenting done with other steels.

I know Luong La on youtube likes to fool around with different steels.
 
garry3 said:
I like a hard axe for its superior edge holding. I really don't know why we don't see more experimenting done with other steels.

I know Luong La on youtube likes to fool around with different steels.
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Okay, buddy, I'll check it out.
 
Technology offers refined materials. Better materials may offer increased performance, often at greater cost. Old versions are not obsolete and still retain their value. If you want to push the boundaries of widget construction, I salute you. There is territory to explore.
 
I understand there are plenty of steels that may be better at supporting a thin knife edge but with axes there is a balance between a thin edge and the wedging effect that is needed for bucking cuts. If an axe edge and profile is to thin it penetrates but does not wedge out chips the same way.

I have had axes with bits to thin for my chores and how well the bit held up was not the issue, the issue was not enough wedging.
 
DigDeeporDie said:
Technology offers refined materials. Better materials may offer increased performance, often at greater cost. Old versions are not obsolete and still retain their value. If you want to push the boundaries of widget construction, I salute you. There is territory to explore.
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Thanks Mate🤝🤝，It is indeed a pursuit of the ultimate, although the possible pay off is not necessarily proportional to the effort.
 
Seedy Lot said:
but with axes there is a balance between a thin edge and the wedging effect that is needed for bucking cuts
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Thanks Lot,This is indeed a very professional question, which has caused me to think more about application scenarios. I think you are right.
 
I'm pretty sure things like axes and hammers are made with steels that surface harden well and are resistant to shock damage. Basically for the work done the current steels are good enough.
Now if you wanted to get into log cutting comps (still done down here in Australia) where they are racing against each other and the clock, and are almost always cutting across the grain, well that's where the axes start to get a bit fancier.
 
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