Deciding between 2 DB Axes for Splitting Duty

Oh, one other small thing. We have both a 6lb and 8lb maul. There's no denying they are the cat's ass for some splitting but, at least IMHO, they are also no where near as satisfying to use. Besides, if I really just treated splitting as all work and no play I'd just borrow the neighbor's hydraulic splitter and be done with it ;)

My snow blower and his splitter...I've got good neighbors :thumbup:
 
mako20ft said:
Actually, the first one looks as if it were never put on a handle...there is nothing to suggest it was ever even sharpened. One of the reasons I picked it up to begin with.
Click to expand...

I believe you are mistaken. The length of the toe being noticeably shorter than the heel is the classic mark of an axe that has been used and sharpened many times. It may not have happened recently but that first axe has seen some sharpenings. Absolutely for sure.


mako20ft said:
If you get a chance would you post a pic of the Rafting Axe you prefer for splitting duty?
Click to expand...


Rafting axe.

Knots%202.JPG
 
mako20ft said:
Peg,

If you get a chance would you post a pic of the Rafting Axe you prefer for splitting duty? I still find the various patterns, their names and intended functions to be confusing. Also, I take it the the first axe head I've shown (the 4lb'er) is not a Swamper type however the 2nd one I've shown is?

It sounds like some opinions are the 2nd one also shows uneven wear or poor maintenance. That's interesting but probably related to the angle of the photo as the tool's cutting edges are actually rather uniform. Neither of the 2 axe heads has any appreciable wear at all. Actually, the first one looks as if it were never put on a handle...there is nothing to suggest it was ever even sharpened. One of the reasons I picked it up to begin with.

I'm "temporarily" trying it with an OAL of 35". The 2nd one hasn't gotten the handle in yet from House.
Click to expand...

I believe the second axe is not a swamping pattern but is a western pattern, and not much wear on it. The other is worn some as Squarepeg said. I would use that worn axe for splitting if I really had to use a double bit for splitting.
 
What hasn't been mentioned here about using dbl bits for splitting duty is the inability to be able to 'follow through' when the blade sticks or gets buried. You can pound on the poll of a single bit with a mallet or any number of heavy objects (and with a 'rafting' pattern you can even use a sledge!) in order to drive the head through a firewood round. With a dbl bit you're always facing sharp edges. Having to get one unstuck becomes not unlike trying to flip a porcupine.
 
Square_peg said:
I believe you are mistaken. The length of the toe being noticeably shorter than the heel is the classic mark of an axe that has been used and sharpened many times. It may not have happened recently but that first axe has seen some sharpenings. Absolutely for sure.

Rafting axe.

Knots%202.JPG
Click to expand...



Peg,

It has to be the pic. When laid flat and using my speed square you would be surprised at how well the toe and heel align. As a carpenter and furniture maker of 26 years (sadly at times :D ) I have a fair eye. I do however understand your point and it doesn't bother me at all if the axe head has been used and sharpened...adds to the mojo I suppose. It is remarkably symmetrical though...she is definitely going to be a user in the splitting pit :thumbup:

The posts about the disadvantage of using a DB for splitting is well taken. It's not because I mistakenly believe the DB helps me in some other way but rather I simply like the swing and frankly, the appearance. Wish I had a better excuse but she feels right.

The Octagon handle at 34" is absolutely sweet, good grain and ideal color. I sure wish the last piece of Hickory from House would get here.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top