Need Advice on a Black Raven, Plumb Champion, and Kelly Hammer Hatchet I just got.

C

chucktaylor90

Joined
Dec 13, 2012
Messages
13
Hi I am a new guy around here, at least as far as posting goes. I have read a lot and learned from all of your expertise. Thank you.

I am also new to vintage axes and I am really excited about it. It all started because as a firefighter I was doing research about axe maintenance.................and here I am.

I was hoping to get a little input from you experts. I recently purchased three axe heads from a local guy. having a very limited knowledge I took a gamble and went for it. All are in pretty rough condition, but I think could end up nice once I put some elbow grease into them. Here they are:

Kelly Black Raven
/Users/andrewdavis/Pictures/iPhoto Library/Masters/2012/12/13/20121213-162156/IMG_0058.jpg

Plumb Champion
/Users/andrewdavis/Pictures/iPhoto Library/Masters/2012/12/13/20121213-162156/IMG_0059.jpg

Kelly Hammer Hatchet
/Users/andrewdavis/Pictures/iPhoto Library/Masters/2012/12/13/20121213-162222/IMG_0060.jpg

A few Questions:

Are these axes worker axes, or collectors axes? I know the embossed axes are a little more rare, so should I restore them with a display axe in mind or somthing I can use. I realize that all of them "can" be used, but should they?

What is the best way to get the rust and corrosion off without changing the natural patina of the metal. I have heard vinegar works well but can change the color of the steel. If I am just going to buff them in the end does that matter? Should I just use a metal buffing wheel to remove the rust?

Because they are embossed do I need to take any precautions so that it is still visible and stands out?

Is there any way to get the relief part of the embossing such as the black raven to turn black again so that it pops better?

I have heard a few different techniques for fixing the mushrooming. As you can see they have significant mushrooming. Can they be pounded or filed? I have been reading about how some people have done it, any thoughts on the best way to do it? Can I just grind them off?

I know that is a lot of questions. Let me know if you have any other tips or thoughts.

Thanks!
 
Seems like you got off well on the axes. For the pictures upload them to photobucket or another online image hosting site then copy the image URL and then post them between
IMG ]
 
chucktaylor90 said:
/Users/andrewdavis/Pictures/iPhoto Library/Masters/2012/12/13/20121213-162156/IMG_0058.jpg
Click to expand...

Yeah, that's not gonna work.
We can't see pictures on your mac just 'cause you put IMG tags around the file path in your post.
You'll have to upload them to photobucket, picassa or some sort of image host. Your mac.com account?
Then put the URL to each pic in the IMG tags.

Figure it out 'cause we're sitting here doing the axe pr0n junkie shuffle with teasers like you've got. :)
Welcome to the subforum. We'll help you get 'em clean up and running sharp.
 
I don't know why its not working. It does look like you can right click on the individual boxes and open the image in photobucket in another window. Sorry for the hassle. If you know of a way to fix it let me know.
 
These them?

IMG_0058_2_zpsc50e0501.jpg


IMG_0059_2_zps371c8e15.jpg


IMG_0060_2_zpsfdf411c3.jpg


In photobucket just click on the image code and it will copy the url with
already around it. Go back to your dialog box and right click and paste it directly into the message.
 
As a collector of vintage axes and a user, I would call those users. I would file off the mushrooming, wire wheel or steel wool on the rust. sharpen and handle as necessary. I've seen pretty rough black ravens go for big money though. I don't like vinegar baths, except in badly pitted cases, but that's just me. Those don't look too badly rusted. I've only just started trying to hammer back mushrooming and had mixed results so far. I'm going to try heating the mushrooming with a torch before hammering next to see if that works. Grinding will work on mushrooming too. Just have to be more careful you don't go too far. That hammer axe looks like it just needs sharpening.
 
Those are 3 great stamps, even though they aren't in fine condition. Hit those puppies with a brass wire cup on an angle grinder. They will shine.

Half, I'm sure you already know this but you can limit the spread of any heat you put on the poll by wrapping a wet rag around the cheeks.
 
Mine is a fairly coarse crimped bass wire. It has plastic flaps all around the cup to guard against wires going up in your face. I religiously wear safety glasses just the same. Also be sure to wear a dust mask. And don't use the el cheapo masks with one thin rubber band. Get a mask with 2 heavier bands - or wear a respirator if you have one. The rust ain't good to breath. A decent dusk mask is plenty of protection.
 
Thanks guys! This is all good information. I am going to pick up a brass wire cup and start getting to work. I assume that this will remove all of the rust as well as patina and paint. Regarding the embossing it will probably leave it without any black or contrast. Is there any way to restore that? Can you paint or patina the relief parts of the embossing? I just want it stand out and look like it did when new.

Any ideas? Thanks!
 
If you use the brass brush it shouldn't take the patina off unless you push down really hard.
 
Yep. Brass cup leaves the patina more intact than a steel wire cup will. They really bring out a nice look in old axes.
 
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