Marathon axe - any info on them?

[Pakowhai]

I've can't find any information on this maker at all. The 4 1/2lb head was the first one I found and assumed it was probably chinese because of the shape. I was less sure when I came across the 2kg head with a different and deeper stamping. I picked up the 4lb last week and the steel is better quality than I would expect from the usual chinese made heads found locally.

I still think they're probably chinese but would be nice to know more. Hoping Steve Tall can work his magic or someone else can help. Also, any ideas what E.G. means before the weight? Thanks in advance.

4 1/2lb

2K

4lb

 

[markv]

i've had a few Chinese axe heads. some pretty good steel really.
from the excellent pictures you posted , sure looks like very good steel. i mean can you tell from a picture, well there is just something in the surface, color, smoothness, light reflection.
by the way, a few of the Chinese heads i have have very hard steel, maybe too hard , but better than too soft.
try a file yet to check for hardness?
hoe bout Canadian?
buzz