Do all GB axes have a staple in the wedge?

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Apr 29, 2009
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I got my dad a GB Small Forest Axe for Christmas and I noticed it doesn't have a metal staple in the wedge atop the head. There is a wooden wedge, but nothing else holding it on. I don't recall seeing any other axes without this metal staple so I am just a bit worried I got a stinker. Is this normal? Has anyone else seen one without it?
 
One of my Wetterlings came with only a wooden wedge. I hammered one in myself, just to be on the safe side.
 
That is probably a second wedge. a first large wooden wedge goes the long way, then a smaller metal one crosses it, normally at an angle. the first one is to increase the grip on the sides and the small metal one to spread front to back.
 
Yes, they use the small one that looks like a staple, rather than the tubular type wedge you're probably used to seeing.
 
As far as I know it should have a metal wedge as well the wooden one, it might be worth contacting them unless you want to throw one in yourself
 
GB does a very good job when it comes to fitting the handles in axes.

I think that they may epoxy the wooden wedges into place.

I haven't seen any stories of them flying off the handle.
 
Here is a pic of how mine came. Large wood wedge with small metal wedge across.
 
Which model? My mini didn't have a metal wedge. A wooden wedge properly installed should be all that's needed. I think the metal wedges are the companies way of CYA'ing.
 
All the GB axes I have use a wooden and metal wedge combination. The matal wedge isn't there to hold the wooden one in, but rather pushes the wood int he front/back direction. Like cckw said, the wooden one should be enough. Since the GB have handles that protrude on top of the head, you can see whether it is wider than the eye. If it is, you have nothing to worry about.

http://woodtrekker.blogspot.com/
 
Only the GB Mini doesnt have the steel wedge. The 8oz head of the Mini has a wooden wedge and as far as I know only one maker makes the Mini, Leonart Petersen "LP". All the other larger axe models have a steel wedge pressed at an angle into the eye of the axe. Even the shortest axe they make(Kubben, hand hatchet) has a steel wedge due to its heavier head(1lb, same as Wildlife model).
 
Ok thanks for the input everyone. I will contact GB and inquire whether I got one that slipped by inspection.
 
Wadus, I just looked at my Kubben, Hunter and Scandinavian FA models and they all have a wooden wedge pressed in first then a steel wedge on top of that for added security. My guess is maybe the axe-smith missed putting a steel wedge in? Unless its an older model in which they may have not did that step? Who was the Smith? Initials?
 
KS. I suppose Kjell is pronounced like Kyle? And after thinking about it, I think it is the Scandinavian Forest Axe, but will have to measure the handle to be sure.
 
Wadus, My Scandinavian Forest Axe also has "KS". The handle should be 25". The Small Forest and Hunter Axes have a 19" hickory stick:).
 
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