Need Advice on Restoring old Axe and hatchet

[Operator1975]

Hey Huck

First let me say I am sorry for my other posts on this forum. While not that bad overall I guess, those arent me.

Congrats on bringing a question out and trying to get an answer. That is obviously one of the purposes of this forum. You have come to the right place.

So, if you are asking about the bench grinder question, there are many variables that go into that. Lemgth of time heated, overall heat level, etc. Bunch of axe heads on here will be able to lead you better than me on that. Though, if I had to guess, I would say that you are ok - though again lots of variables - use since grinding - effect seen - amount of grinding - etc etc.

Next, a bonafide sharpener - well that will be up to you and your skill level - and only you can judge that.

I will suggest that you ask questions here on this forum - lots of knowledge here - use it. Dont be afraid.

Hope it works out!

Mike

 

[Huck Finn]

Thanks everyone for the warm welcome and advice. I had some time today and decided to work on the Plumb BSA hatchet. I got to say, when I saw some videos of guys using a hand file to sharpen axes and hatchets I thought I'd be in for a long days work, but it only took about 2 or 3 hours to get the blade to have a real nice edge. It's not razor sharp, or really sharp at all, but it now has a defined edge and at some areas will bite into your finger nails.

The handle looks fine on the hatchet, so I don't think I'll re-hang it, I might sand it down and oil it. It does have that goofy Permabond epoxy on it, so I think I should leave it be. The handle on the DB I think will need to be replaced. Plus I might have to consider using something a bit more aggressive on the DB to re profile the edge. There are a lot of nicks and dings that will take days to get out using only a file.

I did a little research tonight in regards to dating this hatchet. My dad had told me he got it when my grandfather died back in the early eighties, right before I was born. According to the information I found Plumb made these starting in '83. So what baffles me is why my grandfather bought such a small hatchet. Plus it looks older than 29 years, but I guess my granddad used the hell out of it.

For the record I do have a tree to cut down, unfortunately I don't think I'll be able to get my DB ready in time and I will have to resort to using a chainsaw. The tree on the left is dead, and will have to be felled.

 

[bearhunter]

thats looks nice... good work!

give the handle a good sanding and a couple coats of oil and she'll be ready to go

 

[Frank-New Zealand]

Seems to me you've learned quite a bit Huck. Never been much on small axes...But that one could sway me. Love that pattern.
Like Bear suggests, rub that haft down and get some oil into the wood. Then post another photo.

I also like the way you present your photos. Good on yer mate.

regards...Frank