Though I have about a dozen various axe heads (not counting 7-8 that are handled & ready for use at any time),I'm not what you'd specifically call an ''axe collector''. I have picked up a few unusual patterns mostly online,a couple locally over the years. What's fascinating to me is the number of styles can be well over 1oo once you start doing some research. Pretty much every region of the US,in addition to Canada,Europe had a different favored shape or pattern developed over the centuries. In contrast to today when you go to home center or hardware store & you'll find no more than 1 single bit pattern -usually the most common Michigan one,and if you're lucky,a similar double bit to go with it.Some specialty woodworking stores/catalogues will normally have a few more styles,very high quality & pricey ones made in Germany or Sweden. But that's pretty much it unless you stick to vintage axes. This latest find is a scarce Puget Sound falling axe from the Olympic Peninsula Washington region. 11.5" long,I've seen some in nicer shape/almost New Old Stock that were around 13". My guess that long narrow shape was preferred in the PNW because of the very thick bark of the massive old growth Douglas Fir & other species in the region,it made for easier chopping. You can barely read (with my bad eyes I used magnifier) Kelly Axe & Tool,Charleston,W.VA - a well respected maker.After WWII the company name was changed to True Temper,I have a couple heavy duty shovels & at least one 3 pound crosspeen hammer from the 1970's marked TT.Still high quality,dont know if they're around anymore or not.
That sure is a narrow. Quite a looker though. I'm not really a collector, but it is hard to pass up something if it is decent.
Ever find an older 5 or 6 lb. axe felling head? Most old ones I find or see for sale are in the 3.5 - 4 lb. range.
Not that I'm aware of. One of my first axes I got at local farm/estate auction back in early 80's,its around 4.5 pounds if I remember.The one I reach for most every time for splitting smaller straight stuff,limbing branches.It don't feel that heavy because of perfect balance & shape.Dont remember brand name,think its unmarked.
Another Puget Sound on the way from Aberdeen WA,should see it in about a week. Far from perfect,the Plumb logo is barely readable. Fair price,ones in excellent or New Old Stock condition cost much more.
The Plumb arrived on Thursday. Also from same Seller that day - Vintage Kulien cork boots,size 8.5 in good condition Wanted a pair to replace my old make-do pair & make it easier walking/working those steep slopes when its muddy or snow/ice packed.But couldn't justify $300 & up for a new pair.When they're only used 3-5 days monthly year round. Perfect fit,a few scuffs & 1 minor cut that can be sealed over easily. Did some research & found out that Kulien Footwear of Centralia WA is still in business - All of their shoes & boots are hand made to order for a custom fit.Their boots START at $700 & its recommended that you visit them in person for the initial measuring/sizing.They have street address/phone number listed but no website that I could find.... The best thing about these is the price - just $52 shipped to my door.... Also found a pair of 72" Kevlar/Nylon laces at a local work clothing/shoe store yesterday. My regular work boots I normally use 45 or 54" ones.With a couple coats of Obenhauf's waterproofer they should last me several more years,or until I'm too damm old or crippled to cut wood anymore....
