Axe cheek thickness

[A17]

I was looking at some Michigan pattern heads the other day when I noticed something. My ancient A.A.T.co Rough Rider Michigan had far thinner cheeks than all my other axes. I started looking and took this photo to show what I meant. Any idea why they become thicker the newer the year of manufacture?

Here are the different manufacturers from left to right. Newer Kelly Perfect, Woodslasher, older Kelly Perfect, Baker, and my A.A.T.co. Just so's you know the thinner ones cut deeper, better, and throw bigger chips.

 

[300Six]

Have a look at today's version of Channel-Lock-brand slip joint pliers (made in USA though) and you'll marvel at how many corners can be cut by minimizing curves, contours and artful round-overs along edges. Any time you deviate from flat, straight and square edged it compounds manufacture time and effort. That newer Kelly Perfect of yours is crude in comparison to the AAT Co.

 

[Brian Rust]

What 300 said! The craftsmanship in that newer (thick cheeked) head is minuscule compared to that AAT Co. the shorter answer is they can make more heads for a cheaper price if they make them thick with no or little convex.