Questions on Tomahawk Repairs

A

APC

Joined
Dec 1, 2004
Messages
26
I have two questions on tomahawks that I purchased. I believe that my expectations were probably too high for the products and costs that were spent. I do have these now however, and I thought that it is worth a shot to see if I can get them functioning.

I purchased a Smith & Wesson, green handled, Vietnam-style tomahawk that is very similar in looks to the ones that you most often see these days made by Cold Steel. I was using it one day (really for the first time) and the handle (which seemed rather light and not very sturdy) broke/sheared off at the point where the wood handle went up into the metal. After cleaning/grinding out the wood (and some kind of glue-like materal) from where the handle went into the metal, I have tried to find some handles that would fit into this. Nothing fts properly even trying to carve something down. I wonder where I can get a handle that can be used with this? The metal does not seem to be that bad, just the handle was really weak and poorly made.

I also wonder what it the correct process or methods to get a handle to stay on a hatchet (for example, if I can find one for the S&W)? I have also used several of Cold Steel's various other tomahawks as well, and the heads do not stay on the handles. You (seem to) have to actually buy some metal plates that Cold Steel sells to screw onto the handle below the blade to keep the handle from falling down on your hand.

Anyone have any thoughts on either of these two phenomenas (other than to purchase the top quality versions from A.T. company).

APC
 
APC said:
Nothing fts properly ...
Click to expand...

Most Tomahawk heads are fairly specific shaped, direct replacement usually need to be bought from the manufacturer, unless you are willing to get something bigger and carve it to shape, this isn't trivial for a good axe level fit, but isn't difficult for throwing.


I have also used several of Cold Steel's various other tomahawks as well, and the heads do not stay on the handles.
Click to expand...

They don't taper the eyes properly, they needed wedges unless you want to grind out the eye.

-Cliff
 
Is there any information on how exactly one might do something like this? I certainly don't have access to an arbor machine, but I do have a desk vice if that might be used in some limited, similar way. Any recommendations? Thanks for the comments.
 
I started a thread on it at Axe Forum. I stopped writing it due to a lack of response. If I see that someone over there is responding and asking questions, I'll finish it as time allows.
 
Is that forum you mentioned actually here within Blade Forums or some other on-line forum? Also - does anyone have a good vendor/company that they recommend for purchasing (as a reliable sales source) for items such as American Tomahawk or Gransfors Burks equipment?

I know that they are very expensive tools/companies, but everyone here at BF indicates that they are the really the best. I would be OK with a recommended Internet-based company, or I live in Ohio if any brick-and-mortar stores are with in driving distance of Cincinnati or Dayton. APC
 
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