Average Length of a Plumb BS Hatchet/Hand Axe?

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Sep 25, 2015
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Mine is measuring in at around 4 15/16" from the back of the poll to the center of the bit. From looking at the head, and with the grinding marks on the bit when I got it, I have a feeling that the head was longer when it was new. Trying to get a rough idea of how much metal has been removed.

Could this thing have been as long as 5 1/2" when it was new? How long should it be?

Thanks!
 
What I'm worried about; or why I'm asking, is because it almost appears that there are multiple layers of metal at the bit. It could just be from sharpening (bit profile still isn't even & consistent). Curious how much metal has been removed over the years. My other BS heads/hatchets are a little different style (no angle tapers at the top & bottom of the poll) so I can't compare them.

Looks like there are just a few small specs of black paint left on the head so I assume it was painted black at one time. I assume this is the most common, traditional Boy Scout hatchet. Nothing rare or unique, etc. Not sure what style this is. Probably the "scout" type head, similar to a Dayton??

In the bigger picture, it doesn't really matter all that much --the bit currently holds a really good edge and it is a tool with a limited lifespan (due to sharpening).

Thanks.

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These cute little cedar pattern fellas will have a fairly consistent weight to them. If someone can post the weights of an NOS or mostly unused Plumb version then you'll be able to get some idea of how much metal has been removed. What appear to be differing metals at the blade tip indicate (to me) there is inserted bit sandwich manufacture and that the blade has been filed back considerably over the years. Post a picture of the profile from the eye end. If it's no longer a gentle taper all the way to the tip that will tell you quite a lot.
 
I have the non-BSA version of this exact axe with almost no wear. They have a surprisingly curved radius to the edge so your axe may not be as worn as first appears. I'll try and post a pic when I get home later this weekend.
 
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