I had new info from Tuatahi today.
They are changing their work axe line. In the meantine, several options seem to be available. 1) the current work axes, which are (aparently) made of race axe steel, just thicker. 2) a line of chinese-made Tuatahi-style axes. These look a bit like the Bolstad axes (which look somewhat similar to the standard Tuatahis) are flat grinds with a "rough rolled edge," weigh a hair under 5 lbs and are about 7 1/4 long by 6 7/8 wide. They are intended for work, practice and rigging, and are judged (by Tuatahi) to be made of steel unsuitable for racing. On the plus side, heads (not including the considerable shipping from NZ) are only about $60, compared to ~$200 for the regular axe (with handle). Tuatahi is also offering a chinese made throwing axe for considerably less than their regular throwing axe.
No word yet on what the new style of work axes will be like.
