Hardware Store Axe/Hatchet

[triggahappy28]

What are the best/better axes and hatchets for the known chain hardware stores? I picked up an estwing from Home Depot which was solid, and a Collins from Ace which badly needed a regrind, what do you guys recommend?

 

[Operator1975]

I don't think you will find many that recommend current day hardware/big box outlet axes.

 

[triggahappy28]

I didn't expect too, just kind of a best of the worst sort of scenario!

 

[Diomedes Industries]

Honestly - buy a nice Plumb used - buy a 14 or 18 inch handle from House Handle or Tenn Hickory and have an heirloom for the same price.

TF

 

[Skimo]

Something wrong with the handles at ACE(etc)?

 

[Grease]

Something wrong with the handles at ACE(etc)?

Usually, yes. You can pick through a couple dozen and often only find one or two with halfway decent grain.

 

[Bo T]

True Temper True American - Although the handles vary. Just stash a Grant in your wallet and sooner or later you'll find one with a really good handle.
I found an axe and a hatchet at the same time.

IF you can find one of the vintage axe heads in good or better condition and get it for a good price it is worth it to refurbish or rehang it. But you have an additional cost of time and materials. And it is hard (for me) to use these axes for the dirty chores of axes - grubbing roots, cutting sod, cutting anything at or near ground level.

A lot depends on what you are going to use it for.

 

[Double Ott]

Here's a Kelly garage sale find for $2 and restored. The handle was tight and good to go. I used an angle grinder with a twisted wire cup one it to clean up the head. It leaves a nice patina.









Tom

 

[Bo T]

That turned out great, Tom.

 

[triggahappy28]

Yeah that one looks really great! I'll guess ill be digging around garage and estate sales more often

 

[d.weglarz13]

Hey Tom, did you use a grinder/belt sander for the edge? It sure looks nice, better than most. Unless you did that job with a file? thanks

dave

 

[Elkhunt58]

Double Ott... how do you get that nice smooth profile to the edge? Is that a belt sander? If yes... what grit? Thanks