Cruiser Axe - Your Definition?

[halfaxe]

I've worked in the forest industry for over 30 years. All the old-timers around here called a 2 1/2 lb. double bit a cruiser. They weren't collectors but piece cutters. I heard it before I bought my first axe. Axe collecting has exploded the last 5 years and maybe started at most only 30 years ago. No way did collectors come up with the name.

 

[Steve Tall]

...As far as the definition of a "cruiser" axe goes shouldn't there be photos and descriptions of them in old catalogs? If there are none in old catalogs...

Here's a 1937 catalog for Warren Axe & Tool Co.
On page 10 are the "Cruiser Axes".
They are double bit axes.
"Weight 2 pounds or 2-1/2 pounds.
Fitted with 19" or 28" white hickory handle"

www.blackburntools.com/articles/rose-tools-catalog-archives/pdfs/warren-1937-no-14.pdf

 

[Axe Master '94]

Haven't been able to find a handle under 28"... I've got a 2# Grey Gorge that's just too small for even a "typical" cruiser handle. Anybody know where to find one in the 18-20" range?

 

[gben]

Maybe this little double-bit axe, I called it a hatchet, is technically a cruiser axe then:

 

[lmalterna]

I have a small Warren double- I will have to get pics and measurements.

Terms in common usage like this become established through time but are tough to define standards for. "Sniper Rifle" was always problematic fo me.

Bill