Norlund Voyageur?

[Curt Hal]

I've restored a few Norlund hatchets, but this is the first Norlund Voyageur stamp I've seen. It's a 1 lb head and had an 11" handle which the owner split by driving a 3" common nail into it as a wedge. Anyone have any knowledge or experience with a Voyageur?

 

[300Six]

"Norlund" was a 1960's to 80s enterprise that had commissioned Mann Axe Company to make a budget line of recreational gear. Apparently this started off as a contract with Canadian Tire Corp and Mann intentionally renamed the side-line enterprise after reputable axe maker E.O. Norland who had ceased to make tools in 1949. Whatever happened after that is not fully documented but Norlunds are neither antique nor to be considered 'top drawer' when it comes to quality.

 

[Curt Hal]

Thanks. Got that. Just wondering about the Voyageur stamp I haven't seen before. I agree about the quality, but folks are paying a handsome price for them.

 

[300Six]

Thanks. Got that. Just wondering about the Voyageur stamp I haven't seen before. I agree about the quality, but folks are paying a handsome price for them.

When it comes to moving stuff along at a premium you can't go wrong with Norlund goodies, at the moment. Those collector-type folks that fondly remember spying Norlund H Bs s wrapped in cardboard and clear plastic next to the cash register at the bait and tackle store are a dying breed. I never succumbed to buying one back then and certainly won't now.

 

[Curt Hal]

It's true.