Hey folks, new the forum and hoping to glean some seasoned wisdom and insight. A short while ago I picked up a Wetterlings 15" Small Hunting Axe. Recently we had it out for a cold overnighter (bushcrafting/camping) and it saw some heavy use creating a nice pile of fuel to help stave off the 20 degree night.
Somehow I managed to pick up a pretty deep chip/nick in the cutting edge. I spent some time with some files and sharping blocks (and slow labor) eventually getting the chip/nick out of the head. This, however, did take down some of the stock and the edge is yet to be anywhere as sharp as I'd like it.
Meanwhile, I managed to test out a friends new Wetterlings Large Hunters Axe and I now have one on order. This axe size and weight (LHA) appears to be just about perfect for my needs. So, I have a 15" hatchet I'd like to learn with and from.
Some things I'd like to possibly do and need insight on:
1. Polish the head fully. I gather this helps with batoning and splitting efficiency? Anybody else got a differing opinion? Is this pure bunk and would be only mindless beautification? If not, what is the best method for fully polishing a Wetterlings axe head? (perhaps a second, separate post)?
2. Best method to get a razor sharp axe edge? Is a razor sharp edge even recommended? My use will be bushcrafting/backpacking/camping.
3. Best method to treat and condition the handle. While linseed oil (tung oil as well) seems well recommended, I've also read some equally persuasive nods towards using more modern mixtures/compounds like Danish Oil, etc. Some argue if this were around 100 years ago, nobody would be recommending the old school treatments. I honestly dunno? Got an experience or reality based view that differs?
As always, life is busy so huge and sincere thanks for any insight or advice you may offer.
Somehow I managed to pick up a pretty deep chip/nick in the cutting edge. I spent some time with some files and sharping blocks (and slow labor) eventually getting the chip/nick out of the head. This, however, did take down some of the stock and the edge is yet to be anywhere as sharp as I'd like it.
Meanwhile, I managed to test out a friends new Wetterlings Large Hunters Axe and I now have one on order. This axe size and weight (LHA) appears to be just about perfect for my needs. So, I have a 15" hatchet I'd like to learn with and from.
Some things I'd like to possibly do and need insight on:
1. Polish the head fully. I gather this helps with batoning and splitting efficiency? Anybody else got a differing opinion? Is this pure bunk and would be only mindless beautification? If not, what is the best method for fully polishing a Wetterlings axe head? (perhaps a second, separate post)?
2. Best method to get a razor sharp axe edge? Is a razor sharp edge even recommended? My use will be bushcrafting/backpacking/camping.
3. Best method to treat and condition the handle. While linseed oil (tung oil as well) seems well recommended, I've also read some equally persuasive nods towards using more modern mixtures/compounds like Danish Oil, etc. Some argue if this were around 100 years ago, nobody would be recommending the old school treatments. I honestly dunno? Got an experience or reality based view that differs?
As always, life is busy so huge and sincere thanks for any insight or advice you may offer.
