What do I have?

[vecsus]

First post here. About a month ago we had some major wind storms that knocked down a lot of trees. Along the route I walk my dog there are several downed trees that someone bucked up and left up for grabs. I split about a half-cord using a generic splitting axe (boring fiskars model from Lowes). I didn't even take most of it - I just liked the process of splitting the logs.

Doing this brought back fond memories of splitting wood for the stove we used to heat the house when I was a kid. So it got me thinking about the axe I had way back in the 80s. I love the process of felling, splitting, and processing firewood. I also do fair bit of backpacking and enjoy a good fire in the evenings. I was thinking that a lightweight axe would be a good companion to to my Esee 6 and Izula.. On a whim, I picked up an axe head for a few bucks and plan to hang it next weekend. It would be used for limbing, light splitting, and kindling. It's labeled as a Fulton Merit Mark. 1.5 pound head and I have a 24" handle on the way. What should I have done differently

 

[Square_peg]

What should I have done differently

Honestly, I can't think of anything. Fulton Merit Mark is an old Sears Roebuck brand. That's a good quality hatchet with good steel.

A 24" handle is a reasonable length for that size head. If I went shorter I'd go all the way down to 19" or less. 19" is a good length length for a house axe. 24" is a good length for an all purpose light axe. Nice for camp chores, limbing and bushcraft work.

It's a good idea to measure the eye to determine what type of handle to buy for it. File it, hone it, hang it and love it.

 

[jblyttle]

It may not be the best splitting axe for taking rounds apart, but it will be a useful versatile tool with good quality.

 

[vecsus]

Thanks for the responses. I'd continue to use my splitting maul to tackle the rounds. I seriously considered putting it on a 19" handle...still might do that but will see how it feels on the 24" first. This axe will be for smaller tasks when I'm out for a night or two or looking to process a bit of wood for the backyard fire pit. I have a basic Estwing hatchet but never really liked using it.

 

[Maine20]

Thanks for the responses. I'd continue to use my splitting maul to tackle the rounds. I seriously considered putting it on a 19" handle...still might do that but will see how it feels on the 24" first. This axe will be for smaller tasks when I'm out for a night or two or looking to process a bit of wood for the backyard fire pit. I have a basic Estwing hatchet but never really liked using it.

I think you will like the longer handle, makes for a much more useful tool. Especially if it’s not going to be in a pack often.