Filing question

S

Section10

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Jun 8, 2010
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I have very nice fancy double bit axe head that I'd like to fix up as a display only axe. I have never worked on an axe with the strict intent of display only. I intend to remove all the rust, but I was wondering if I ought to file it or not. The edges are in nice shape and it wouldn't take much filing to make them sharp, but would it be better to leave them be as is?
thank you
Jim
 
Section10 said:
I have very nice fancy double bit axe head that I'd like to fix up as a display only axe. I have never worked on an axe with the strict intent of display only. I intend to remove all the rust, but I was wondering if I ought to file it or not. The edges are in nice shape and it wouldn't take much filing to make them sharp, but would it be better to leave them be as is?
thank you
Jim
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My opinion is if just for display, for instance mounted and stuffed. Cleaned up and nice looking but not working sharp. Only because you might be passing it around.
I have an old one on my mantle though and I must confess it is frikking sharp. Just me though you never know when you might use it and it's a matter of pride too.:eek:
 
If you have kids, then leave it dull. I would assume though if you are talking about displaying it you probably don't so sharpen her up.
 
IMO, having a dull axe is like having a dull knife... what good is it? even on display, a sharp edge shows that you know what the hell you are doing;)
like mentioned above "its a matter of pride"...
 
Shouldn't you be able to pull it down and shave some hair off your arm to impress your visitors????!!!
 
If it is a collector piece, then dont touch it. If it is more of a so-so piece, maybe a personal favorite, then it is yours, do what you want with it.
 
Operator,
I'd call it a collector piece. It's not mint, but it's very good. It's an embossed axe with a big G inside a circle among other lettering. I'd like to do right by it. When you say don't touch it do you mean don't even clean it up? It's been lightly wire brushed but still has a thin surface layer of rust. I was thinking of using electrolysis on it. I think it would clean up very good, but with collector axes I'm getting into uncharted territory for me. I have no personal interest in the axe. It's just something I managed to find. Thanks for the input.
Jim
 
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If it is a collectors piece, dont touch it - just let it be. You can try and clean it up if you like, however I would not use electrolysis or vinegar - I would just WD40 it, and let it be. True collector pieces you want to leave as small a fingerprint on as you can - to ensure the history of the piece. Every time you file it, clean it, etc - it technically backs up the time of the piece, if that makes sense. It doesnt make it as old, as history goes.

However, bottom line is that you own it, do what you will with it. If someone comes into your house and gives you a hard time about it, then say "come see my other nice piece I have, its called the door, and dont let it hit you on the way out"
 
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