Proper Axe hardness - a rehab question

daizee

daizee

Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Dec 30, 2009
Messages
11,176
hi All,

I have a Kelly Works True Temper Flint Edge that I'm looking to restore to duty.
It's very hard based on a file test. Also, there are a lot of small chips in the edge. I could file or stone it back, but given how hard it is this will take some doing and maybe kill a file.

My question is this: Is this axe too hard?? It seems harder than my others. What's appropriate?
Should I throw it in the oven at 450 for an hour or two before I hang it?
Seems like any plausible steel it could be made from would be fine at 450.

Thanks!

-Daizee

here's a low-light pic:

IMG_20121022_214306-small.jpg
 
I don't think that I would heat it up. You have a nice axe there. I do not know what shape your files are in. If they don't cut it, I would buy a good Nicholson new file and use it before messing with the temper of the ax. Files are cheap enough. You probably need one anyway. Only file on the push stroke and not drag it back and forth while using. You can also chalk up the file to help keep metal from building up in the grooves. Get a good file brush and use it often. Save the metal dust and impress your friends as you rub your hands together over the campfire and watch the sparkles. You may already know all this information. I would stone or file flat on the edge to take the chips out then shape the edge back. They knew what they were doing when the axe temper was done so why mess up a good thing. Regards
 
My Wetterlings axes are around 60 HRC iirc, they're equally serviceable as knife blades in a pinch. Just be careful not to hit rocks and dirt with it, and it will be great. Just a bit longer to sharpen. Diamond files will make it quicker.

I checked, my wetterlings are 56-58
 
Last edited:
I have file-sharpened a 1.75lb Warren, a 3lb Mann Connecticut, a Hults Bruks/Husqvarna hatchet, and others. This one seems particularly hard to me, hence the question.
 
It'd be great if more budget priced axes were harder.
IMO I wouldn't mess with the heat treat. Perhaps it's a good time to buy a sander to sharpen your tools. You can pick up a little harbor freight 1x30" sander for cheap and there's a good selection of belts online. Just be sure you don't overheat it.
 
I've got a lil HF 1x30 and have sharpened quite a few abused tools without any problems; it just takes time. I haven't used it since getting my KMG though. Gotta love the power of a real grinder.

That thing turned out great.
 
fumbler said:
That thing turned out great.
Click to expand...

Thanks. I left out the picture of my band-aided finger... Reconfirmed that I don't like double-ground knives, but I'll happily make an exception for this axe. :D
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top