USA Equivalent to Husky Carpenter's Axe

[amflud]

I'm looking for a smaller axe for around the camp site. It will not be used for any major chopping. I'm liking the size and head shape of the Husqvarna Carpenter's Axe, but it seems that most people feel it's a bit too heavy. This might not be a factor since it won't be used for packing. I like that the head shape allows for choking up.

Does anyone here know of a vintage US made axe that might be comparable to the Husky? Or, if there are any supporters of the Husky please chime in. The Husky is really at the top of my price range so please keep that in mind. Thanks in advance.

 

[bbforstr]

I believe a True Temper, Flint Edge, Kelly Works, cruiser double bit with 28" haft is the ultimate camp axe. It will do anything you want from splitting to chopping. It weighs approx. 3 pounds w/ handle. As far as modern USA made axes, Council is about your only bet.

You can often find the Flint Edge cruisers on on-line auction sites. Good luck!

 

[amflud]

Thank you. No doubt the cruisers are great axes, and I need an excuse to get one. I should've mentioned that I need a poll. Hardened would be preferable but those seem to be few and far between. I've seen the rafting/falling axes but all that I've seen are much too heavy. Like 3.5 pounds.

 

[idaho_crosscut]

for what you are asking for, I would suggest getting a hammer and a hatchet/boys axe from a hardware store. since you aren't backpacking, and not doing any major chopping, these two things would probably fit your need without dampening your budget or production by any noticeable amount.

 

[Operator1975]

You could get a small plumb cedar like pattern hatchet or axe - plumb made them in multiple weights and sizes - have a nice poll on them for beating if you like - and were once commissioned by the Boy Scouts.

 

[Steve Tall]

I like that suggestion of a "small plumb cedar like pattern hatchet or axe". Here are some examples:

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My Plumb Boys axe. She is one of my favorites...

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[amflud]

I like those Plumbs, let me see what I can find.....

Thanks guys!

 

[Bridger]

I like those Plumbs, let me see what I can find.....

Thanks guys!

Ebay always has a bunch of these available, but I've noticed that lately you aren't the only one that seems to like them. I don't mind dropping $20-$25 on a beat up hatchet head that's just begging for a quality restoration, but for $40 I'd be more inclined to go for a new one from Council.

 

[lmalterna]

For a Plumb boys axe- 40.00 is a good bet. I have picked up other brands, heads and whole for more in the 20.00-30.00 range. Craftsman made some nice boys axes. The non Legitimus Collins can be had for around 25.00 also.

I had the Husky but never got around to using it- my wife bought me a GB Scandi so the Husky left. Seemd A nice axe though. The handle is a bit thick on them.

Bill

 

[idle]

I slimmed the handle down on my carpenters axe. Then made a new handle for it, and fitted the 19" handle on my Husqchet.

Still haven't found the right shape/length for the carpenters axe. It's 25" currently. I'm making the next one about 23" with a taller and deeper belly.

It works very well when used as intended. Having said that, it chops pretty well and the weight (2.2#) almost makes up for the slim bit when splitting. It does take some effort to unstick it though being flat edged.

The 19" hatchet is a trooper. One, or two handed, it just feels so right. Something like that would be a good camp tool.

 

[amflud]

I've always liked the thought of putting a longer handle on a hatchet. Right now I'm leaning towards a boys axe, but I like that idea.