Anyone know what type of axe this is and how old it is? I soaked it in straight vinegar for 2 days and then knocked the rust off with a wire wheel. I intend to put a handle back on it and put it back in use or hang it on the wall. Anyone know what type of axe and or time frame this is from? I soaked it in straight vinegar for two days and then wire wheeled all of the rust off except in the handle hole where I can't get to. Weighs about 3 to 5lbs. Blade edge to back of axe edge = 11.5 inches Blade width is 6.5 inches Back is 2.5 inches long and 1 1/8 inches wide Two points where axe handle goes are 3.5 inches point to point http://s251.photobucket.com/user/testdepth/library/Antique axe?sort=3&page=1
I have pictures but don't know how to post them on this site. There are no markings anywhere on it. http://s251.photobucket.com/user/testdepth/library/Antique axe?sort=3&page=1
I right-clicked on one of the individual photos any copied the image address, which I inserted here (using the "Insert Image" icon):
Looks a bit like a masting axe or related deal. A little edge work and a handle and that would probably be a good tool. I like stuff that needs a little help to be good so others might see something different.
It's a masting axe. Likely 100 years old. It's badly pitted but not badly worn - most of the steel is still there. This is a hewing axe that could also be used for felling. One tool to make a new mast for a ship in a pinch. They found a lot of use outside of mast making. It would typically have a 20" -28" up-turned haft (opening the hang for hewing).
Thanks to all! Masting/Hewing axe it is. Any opinions as to what finish to put on it to keep it from further rusting. I will put a handle on it and place it back in service.
Many folks are happy just with WD-40 as a rust preventative. Others use linseed oil. I use a blend of beeswax, BLO and turps. A similar product can be purchased off the shelf - Renaiassance Wax. For long term storage look to Boeshield.
Yes, turpentine. Equal parts. Combine in sauce pan under low heat and transfer it to a microwavable container. Warm it and the tool before application. Good on hafts, too. I used it to seal any openings at the top or bottom of the eye.
It depends what you want to do. As far as function, if the front 3/4" is polished the axe will perfom fine. This is a double beveled axe so you don't have a flat on the back that needs lapping. You could give it a full polish if you wanted it for a wall hanger. A lot of work but some people like that.
After more wire wheeling and sanding some letters came through on the poll end of the axe head. On one side are capital letters D M. On the opposite side all I can make out are letters of a name stamped in to the steel ( SMUGER ) or (SHUGER). I have finished getting the rust off and now installing the handle.
