Eye Repair Question.

Webscrounger

Webscrounger

Joined
Feb 13, 2005
Messages
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I want to rescue a few vintage heads I've collected over time that have deformed, spread or sunken eyes. I wouldn't waste time on them but except for the eye damage they're in excellent shape and desirable to boot (like Kelley Perfect double and single bit) with unmolested profiles.

I've got a good idea how to do it with heat and pressure but to get the eyes back to correct size, shape and taper looks like it require special axe making swages.

My question is, other that making one, is there a source for tools like that?
 
if they are quality axes then yes you could contact a blacksmith near you and ask if they already have some swages to help fix the axe eye.

i fixed mine using old axels from cars and random steel bar and a mini sledge since it was not worth alot and cheap (think 80's canadian tire axe).

id be cautious using heat on the axe if they have value tho and would try doing it cold or not above 150 degree celcius to not draw the edge off.
 
Yes, I should check for smith in the area and see if they're into this kind of stuff.

Low heat (not red) can be applied around the eye only. The face and edge covered by wet rag or some other kind of heat sink to draw off any excessive heat. The metal around the eye doesn't have to move that much but has to move correctly to restore the taper and profile of the eye.

I can use makeshift tools to get them to a point that a haft will fit securely but would prefer a tool that does a little better job straightening them out if possible.
 
gunscrounger said:
I want to rescue a few vintage heads I've collected over time that have deformed, spread or sunken eyes. I wouldn't waste time on them but except for the eye damage they're in excellent shape and desirable to boot (like Kelley Perfect double and single bit) with unmolested profiles.

I've got a good idea how to do it with heat and pressure but to get the eyes back to correct size, shape and taper looks like it require special axe making swages.

My question is, other that making one, is there a source for tools like that?
Click to expand...

WOW Gunsscrounger, that first post almost sounds creepy. Like something Jason would be doing :)
 
Not knowing the hardness around the eye, or the steel, I'd be cautious cold working it. A good bet, depending on $$, is to check with a blacksmith. The blacksmith could re harden and temper the head for you. I have an ax with a 1/2" dent in the eye that could be straightened with a stake anvil at forging temperature.
 
It all doesnt have to move that far. If I attempt to do it myself, I'd use heat locally. In one case the deformation is pushed/bulged out and taper would actually be a anvil to support the shape of the inside eye while I compressed the bulge out back into shape.
 
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