A medium size pack axe

[Lin Rhea]

I recently forged another axe. This one is made by taking a chunk of mild steel that is 3/4 X 2 X 4-1/4 inch and slitting a hole and rifting it to shape, then splitting the front to insert a 5160 high carbon steel bit in it. I then welded the bit and heat treated it. I don't have the process photoed step by step but I do have the handle shaping almost all covered. Here is the head in the thrmo cycling process.
     

[Lin Rhea]

Now for the handle.

I use 5/4 kiln dried Hickory. First I saw the profile and cut the wedge kerf in the top.

 
I also started removing the extra material with the band saw.
   

I'll be back shortly.

[Lin Rhea]

I use this file/rasp called a Cabinet Maker's Rasp to get things started.
 
I keep checking it till it will start in then continue the process till it will drive on with a moderate amount of effort but not at the risk of breaking the wood.
   
   
   
   
   

You may have noticed that I shaped and finished the area just under the head. I did this because it would be very hard to access it after the head is on. Now is the time to final fit and wedge it.

[Lin Rhea]

Here is the finished Axe.
   
   

This axe is very much a user, one to take in the woods or carry in the pickup. I leave the handle with a sandy finish going to about 120 grit.

[South MS Bowhunter]

Great as usual Lin!

[ymountainman]

Lin that is a awesome build. Thanks for posting!

[Holm-Made]

I believe that one will be coming to the north woods in Minnesota.  A treat to myself  

[srtben]

Another fantastic Axe Lin! These axes are the perfect mix of elegance and serious tool.
I'd love to get one from you someday.

[Hopewell Tom]

Is there a wooden wedge in there or a metal creation?
Also why the extended handle through the eye, looks or a function?

[Lin Rhea]

Thank you gentlemen.

Tom, the extension is both. I like the look but it seems to add a little security as well. The wood wedge swells the end slightly on the outside. The eye is hourglass in cross section also. I have to say though that these axes are forged completely by eye and certainly don't have the precision or look of one that is off a machine.

Chad, I hope it serves you well.  

[Roughcountry]

Really nice axe Lin. I'm one who knows from field use just how good these axe's are.
I'm just about to finish clearing over 3 miles of trails using one your hand axe and a small saw. I have to pack the saw gas so I use your axe for all the small limbs. These trails will be again used to move cattle after 15 to 20 years, so they are a bit wider than just a horse trail. ( I have to hunt for the old trails a lot due to regrowth)

I'm gonna start leaving that little extra wood on every handle I put in from now on. All the work I did trapping last winter and the trail clearing, the handle is just as tight as when you sent it.

Your the axeman in my book. RS

[Lin Rhea]

Thank you Robin.  

[JohnHV]

Love this style!  Beautiful form for great function.

[Jack Guard]

Simplistically Beautiful !