English pattern axe - 4lb Morris of Dunsford

[scruffuk]

So my second project for my pa is this beast!

Originally I had been looking for a decent froe (for splitting down logs for his turning) but the only decent ones I could find were Granny B ones, a bit out of my price range. I don't know why but when I saw it I thought 'that'll do it!'. Not quite sure if its ideal for the task but I don't care, it's what he's getting!

I got it from the auction site and it came last weekend. I was pleased with the condition given its potential age. A few dings on the edge, but nothing too offensive.

Almost no mushrooming!

Again, it'll need a new helve, this time I'm thinking off the shelf, and I was toying with idea of a straight helve again (the Granny B American Felling axe, the 31" straight handle). I'd be grateful for some advice on this, if possible.

Just a pick of the my two projects together, to compare head sizes:

Thanks for looking and in advance for any advice.

Kind regards

scruff

 

[Square_peg]

Wow! 4 pounds is very heavy. It's a good looking axe and in very nice condition.

How bad is that old helve? Any chance of re-using just to keep the history intact?

 

[scruffuk]

Thanks SP. I'm real pleased with it £18 well spent me thinks.

Certainly Morris is an old company, it was established in 1909 and is still going strong.
It still produces a lot of billhooks and the likes to this day.

The grain orientation is the complete opposite of 'ideal'. As a result there are 'shakes' going through the handle, in several places. I think if I was to strike anything with it, it would explode! The head is also very loose. There is not enough on split handle to salvage as a wedge!