Don Abbott Posted September 12 Share Posted September 12 More that a than a year ago I endeavored to forge a camp axe for my son's birthday ('22). I was doing it all by hand and blew my elbow out. Had to wait several months for that to heal up so I could have it ready for his birthday ('23). I started with a block of what I believe to be 5160. Next I forged a splitter and drift especially for this job: I wish I had counted the number of heats it took to get through. The sock around my arm was soaked in water to help with the radiant heat, Man, I wish I had a press. I went over to Jeffries Lumber near Knoxville and got a very nice 5/4 hickory board: It isn't perfect, but I was pleased: He does a bit of camping in the Smokies, so I look forward to getting a field report sometime soon. This was fun, but I'd never attempt another one except for maybe one of my young 'uns. Never say never, but if I had to charge for my time on that one... well, it would be a lot. 6 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alan Longmire Posted September 12 Share Posted September 12 Looks great, Don! I blew out my elbow in January, I know the feeling. Just now starting to forge again. But now you know why I do my camp axes via wrapping rather than slit-and-drift! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Joshua States Posted September 12 Share Posted September 12 That turned out rather nice. I have been watching Ragnorak on Netflix and the axe -itch is coming back...... “So I'm lightin' out for the territory, ahead of the scared and the weak and the mean spirited, because Aunt Sally is fixin’ to adopt me and civilize me, and I can't stand it. I've been there before.” The only bad experience is the one from which you learn nothing. Josh http://www.dosgatosdesignsllc.com/#! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdJMFMqnbLYqv965xd64vYg J.States Bladesmith | Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dos.gatos.71 https://www.etsy.com/shop/JStatesBladesmith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pieter-Paul Derks Posted September 13 Share Posted September 13 That turned out great and very clean! the handle is super pretty as well. I've gotten a few requests for forged axes, but it is too hard work for my wrists and elbows to take it. http://mefecit.nl/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Don Abbott Posted September 13 Author Share Posted September 13 I appreciate the kind words. I forgot to mention that it is 18" long. Somewhere between a full-sized axe and a hatchet. Feels good in-hand. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now