I scored this treat at an estate sale a couple weeks ago. No brand name. I bathed it in vinegar for a couple days to remove the rust, next I have plans of "hafting" it myself. Question: What are the "layers"? It seems there are 2 different types of steel. I appreciate any info. by the way.....this muhgilla is razor sharp....
Might not be multiple steels, they used to just fold it over for strength it is called Damascus steel. Fold hammer fold hammer............
it would be unusual to have a shingle hatchet done in damascus. they are usually done one piece forgings with the appropriate heat treating on the poll and edge. the best thing is the handle is still there so it hasn't been put in a fire to burn the handle out and possibly ruin the temper.
Looks like it's got a couple days on it. The bit may be a piece of higher carbon steel and the rest a milder steel. Could be from differential heat treatment as well. I agree with chucker the handle still being their is a good thing.
I just picked one up not to long ago too. It is unmarked also. I am working up a handle and I think this will be a decent hatchet. I have not sharpened it yet. Could I trouble you for a picture of the top of it? Mine is pretty thin at the blade end. I don't know it this would have been thick enough to let in a piece of higher carbon steel for the cutting edge. It looks too narrow.
I think chucker has it with the heat treat. Here is some info on these hatchets. Axes | A Riving Home
