Need some advice on my new Gransfors Bruks...

Q

qbert

Joined
Feb 24, 2011
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3
I just purchased a Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe online after quite a bit of research and it finally arrived today. Upon first inspecting the axe I was right away impressed by the craftsmanship, but then something jumped out at me that didn't quite seem right. I noticed that the little remaining bit of handle that extends up beyond the head was split on both sides from the pin, or whatever the term is for the metal staple that secures the head to the handle. I'm far from an expert when it comes to axes so I thought I would ask you all: Is this a defect or perfectly normal/acceptable? Just asking because if this is a defect that will pose a problem down the road, I'd rather just return it right away before I break it in. Thanks for your help!
 
If you mean that there's a crack going from the wedge to the side of the haft, I would consider it a defect. None of my GBs have that.
 
normal. It is a wedge. First a long wooden wedge was driven in the long way. then the metal one cross ways. It is this pressure that makes the head stay on. the metal wedge spreads wide enough and comes close enough to the edge that causing a split out to the edge of the handle is quite normal and makes no difference.

Only thing might be over a life time it is a place water can get in and cause rot. So occasionally apply linseed oil to the handle overall, and be sure and put a generous amount on the top.
 
It's normal. Most of mine have the same issue. The metal wedge adds a lot of pressure, and the small amount of wood on each side can split. It would be a defect if the crack continued into the handle on the bottom of the head.
 
rg598 said:
It's normal. Most of mine have the same issue. The metal wedge adds a lot of pressure, and the small amount of wood on each side can split. It would be a defect if the crack continued into the handle on the bottom of the head.
Click to expand...

:thumbup::thumbup::thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:
 
qbert said:
Great, thanks for all the replies. Here are a couple of photos of what I'm talking about:

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee92/beachbon315/P2240075.jpg

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee92/beachbon315/P2240077.jpg

No cracks below the head though so I guess I'm good to go. Thanks again!
Click to expand...

Yea it should be fine, I don't think any of mine have that problem, but
I think it might have sat a while and the wood dried out as well, you might
try lightly sanding the handle and applying linseed oil to it, maybe let the head soak in it for a bit.

These are mine.....none of them have the split......

IMAG0049.jpg

(If it bothers you, send it back because you will end up regretting it as long
as you own it, even if it does not cause any problems other than cosmetics.)
 
Alright, good stuff. I don't much care about cosmetics, I just thought I'd ask to make sure its not going to fail while out in the wild.
 
Personally, I'd send it back, but it's up to you.

Functionally, it should be fine, it's not what I was imagining. But for the grade (and price) of a Gransfors, I figure I'm paying for that to NOT be the case right out of the box.

Either way, good advice to soak it in Boiled Linseed Oil.
 
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