My First Broad Axe, Collins, pic add

Because the weight is all toward one side of the axis of the main stem of the handle, a broad axe has a tendency to want to roll in the hand. While hewing you have to apply a constant counterforce to keep the bit straight. A small offset is necessary to guard against barking one's knuckles. But too much offset becomes more difficult to work with. One thing that can help it to make the handle more oval-shaped and less round - especially in the area of the swell at the end of the handle. It's easier to apply the counterforce twist to an oval handle than to a round handle - it takes less effort. Consider a cross section 3/4" thick and 2" wide in that areas.
 
Well here is a rough shape for her. There might be too much curve. Guess I will have to see.
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Got her hung this weekend. Still, rough sharpened. I hung it a little open so I can keep log a little lower when hewing. Like I have said before I have never had a broad axe or even swung one for that matter. Here is what I ended up with. It measures 28.5" haft length, 2.75" rise in handle at its heighest and down to 2" at fawns foot. I really like this. I will give it a whirl and let you guys know how it works.



 
That turned out awesome! Very impressive. I am no expert hewer but it does look to me like there is a bit too much offset. It might be a little awkward to swing but I am looking forward to hearing how it works and what you learned. Beauty of a broad axe head too. Good job!
 
Wow! That turned out beautifully. Please let us know how it handles. It seems like a little too much curve to me but not so much that you couldn't get accustomed to it.
 
Thanks guys. I know what you mean about it wanting to twist away as you swing. When I grip the handle my hand will only be about 1-1.5" away from log. Could you guys give me that dimension when you are using yours? This was a fun project. Now have too get some logs on the ground.
 
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