Those double bits I mentioned.... (pic heavy)

[scruffuk]

Howdy pilgrims!

The other week I'd asked about flares on DB handles and what not, and had mentioned I need to upload the photos of the heads I managed to score.

My handle shopping, shaping etc is still in progress, so the heads are yet to be hung (or indeed filed and sharpened ) so here they are in as they stand.

Being in the UK DB's are really quite rare (as are decent handles) but after trawling flea bay etc I happened across this no-name 'reversible' (3" eye both ends). Its around 3lb 6oz

Excuse the re-post if you've seen it before

It had a bit of a chunk/flake missing on the toe/heel:

I had to be quite brutal as it looked to have de-laminated slightly. Maybe its a bit ugly as a result, but hey, its a learning curve, right?

I did most of the shaping with the belt grinder.

I have since come to my senses and have been filing with decent mill-files (actually 'farmers owns') and they really do shift metal so much better, cleaner and with so much more control.

Still work to do on it. I shall more than likely be letting it go once hung. I have a woodsy/tree surgeon buddy and I think he'll make the most of it.

So after another DB dry spell, the same seller I bought the original head from popped up with about half a dozen different heads!

These were MUCH more like I had in mind and WANTED!!! I made an offer, no dice, so I bid and waited....I got both for a snip (well especially compared to the beat up no name).

First up a Plumb, about 3lb 2oz:

Its has a bit of a mashed socket....but I'm hopping its not deformed the eye too much. I still think it will be serviceable.

I've literally just received a Gransfors DB Working Axe handle for it. Maaaan, it’s gonna need some thinning out, but it should fit the bill.

 

[scruffuk]

Second, and in my mind a top score, a Collins 2lb12oz!

This is THE cruiser right?! Whatever, I know this is gonna be a keeper!

I am thinking about taking a sledge handle I have, flipping it so the shoulder gives some meat to make the flare, and thinning down to size.
It’s only a relatively small, 2 1/4" eye.

Question is though, what kind of length should I be thinking?

Your thoughts, hints and tips on all would be most appreciated.

Thanks again gents.

scruff

p.s. Apologies for phone pics....by the time I get home from work its too dark to get any decent pics with my camera.

 

[markv]

26 inches for a cruiser works for me
buzz

 

[Square_peg]

First up a Plumb, about 3lb 2oz:

Its has a bit of a mashed socket....but I'm hopping its not deformed the eye too much. I still think it will be serviceable.

Just file off any burrs that would interfere with the handle and it will probably be alright.

This is THE cruiser right?! Whatever, I know this is gonna be a keeper!

Question is though, what kind of length should I be thinking?

I'd go 28" but I'm sure 26" would be fine, too. I wouldn't go less than 26".