First Restoration - In need of guidance

C

cm_bushman

Joined
Oct 22, 2012
Messages
314
I'm fairly new to the Axe world, but I have learned in my short time browsing these forums that select vintage Axes from a few manufacturers are much more highly regarded than the vast majority of currently produced axes. I currently have a few old axe heads by way of my father, and I will be checking on the specific makers and models as soon as I can get in touch with him.

I know that Collins' Axes are well-regarded, especially the Legitimus. I was wondering about the best vintages, if there is a "prime time" to seek out for these particular models. The same goes for Kelly Axes, Belknap, and Mann Edge Tool Co. models. I ask of these because I have heard good things about them and nothing else, and because the old, dilapidated axe heads can be found cheaply and easily for the most part.

My second and more important question is, however, which of these, or another brand, would be the most highly recommended for restoration. I am comfortable with doing a moderate overhaul, and was simply wondering if there are any features or considerations that separate these aforementioned brands, or if there is a standout in these or any other models that make them more or less difficult and rewarding to restore. Depending on how this goes, I hope for this to be my only axe in the foreseeable future, but you never know, this may be the start of an obsession, just like knives.... Ahem, anyway, Thanks Guys!
 
Well, it starts with one old axe. Then just like knives, you realize you need a different one to specialize in a different task, then a different edge geometry, then a different weight, then a different length haft, then a hatchet, then a tomahawk....:D you see where this is going, don't you?!

Kelly Flint Edge are top shelf, Collins Legitimus are good too. Start off with a read through "An Axe to Grind" a free .pdf that can be found on the net via search engine. It will guide you through the vast ocean of axes and explain many things, also axe care.


-Xander
 
Thanks Xander, I will definitely check out that .pdf, it sounds like exactly the thing I need. If I'm not already sitting on any, I'll seek out a Collins and a Kelly as my first choices.
 
You'll find more information in that pdf about the brands that the author considers well respected, but to answer the first part of your question, the vintage thing can be tricky. To a point, older is often better, axes that were made back when a good axe was vital to your livelihood were usually of better build than those from, say, the 80's, when everything sucked :). It can be tough to pinpoint age, but to use Collins as one of the examples I'm familiar with, older tools have Hartford, CT stamped on them and the new ones don't, and the Collins Legitimus is in a rectangle. The really old Plumbs have a bolder stamp with a sharp cornered rectangle, the newer ones have (usually) a larger stamp with rounded corners. I also think the ribs inside the eyes on Kellys are some indication of a newer vintage, but how new, or how much of a difference you may see, I can't testify to. Though I did have a True Temper Welland Vale axe from 1950 or 51 that did not have the ribs, so that might narrow it down somewhat. In the end I think you just have to find one that speaks to you. If you're not excited about it it'll just sit there and gather dust, which is why I have several Michigan patterns that I've owned for years and never done anything with. Good luck!
 
cm_bushman said:
My second and more important question is, however, which of these, or another brand, would be the most highly recommended for restoration. I am comfortable with doing a moderate overhaul, and was simply wondering if there are any features or considerations that separate these aforementioned brands, or if there is a standout in these or any other models that make them more or less difficult and rewarding to restore.
Click to expand...

Here's what I would look for, any vintage North American styled axe that has a high centerline, a decent poll and doesn't have the toe worn back short of the heel. Also, no cracks and no deformed eyes. Avoid newer axes with flat cheeks. Those are made for unknowing homeowners.
 
I like to restore all old vintage axes pretty much the same. I really like Warren and Mann Edge, probably because they are both in my own backyard, and I guess there is some allegiance there, however that works. Collins, Kelly, Warren, Mann, Plumb, on and on all had good products. As stated, it is hard to beat the older ones with quality metal, and I have found this to be true over and over, though there is discussion about this, and that's a good thing.

My advice would be to get your hands on some oldies but goodies and get restoring. The bug then will take care of itself, and then hold on!
 
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