Kelly Axe & Tool Co. - Question

[Barrnone]

Hi All,

Found some rusted up axe and maul heads ($12 for 3 heads) on craigslist and after soaking this double bit in vinegar was able to read "Kelly Axe & Tool Co. *******ton WVA US" on it. My research would indicate that it's circa 1901-1931 Kelly Axe from the Charleston location. I had an acquaintance clean and mount this (i didn't have the time, and haven't done it before) and it looks good, but question: is the bit on upside down?

I would have mounted it the other way.

Thanks


Barrnone~

 

[DarthTaco123]

Looks upside down to me but I've never hung a DB before.

 

[300Six]

Whoops!! Otherwise a nice job though.

 

[halfaxe]

Some db axes are reversible, but that one isn't. You can measure the eye to be sure, and put the small opening towards the bottom.

 

[Double Ott]

she is upside down.

Tom

 

[jblyttle]

Yeah, another giveaway is the wear pattern. The toe (top edge) is almost always worn more.

 

[Barrnone]

Thanks all. So if it's upside down is it a danger to axe or person to use it that way?

 

[halfaxe]

Thanks all. So if it's upside down is it a danger to axe or person to use it that way?

The head will loosen because the eye tapers narrower towards the top. No amount of wedging will hold it. It could fly off after a while if you don't see it loosen.

 

[Barrnone]

Makes sense, thanks!

Guess the lesson is if you want things done right, do them yourself.


Barrnone~

 

[Square_peg]

I like the shape of the cheeks on those old double bits.

 

[300Six]

Lucky you though; if in fact the eye taper is reversed at the moment then disassembly should be a breeze. The haft ought to be re-usable too!

 

[ohen cepel]

I you don't want to mess with re-mounting the heads please let me know.