Thread: Axe talk

Don't remember where I've seen it before but I've read of a technique where one plunges the end of the handle in hot sand driving out any moisture then inserting the handle into the eye where it rehydrates and swells.

Originally Posted by rob streeper

Don't remember where I've seen it before but I've read of a technique where one plunges the end of the handle in hot sand driving out any moisture then inserting the handle into the eye where it rehydrates and swells.

Same trick is used by chairmakers who work with 'green' wood, Rob. They dry the ends of legs to go into the seat, and the ends of stretchers, in hot sand. Maybe that's where you read it....?

Cheers,

One for the old hands ....

When sharpening would you detune the toe and heel of the bit. Ie. dub them over or leave them so?

I can see why you would - for strength as once in a blue moon you might go ploughing with your axe.

And why you wouldn't - as once in a blue moon (prob the same one) you'd want it to catch on an inaccurate glancing blow.

Originally Posted by IanW

Same trick is used by chairmakers who work with 'green' wood, Rob. They dry the ends of legs to go into the seat, and the ends of stretchers, in hot sand. Maybe that's where you read it....?

Cheers,

Could be. I was thinking that I found that in the Foxfire series of books.

Originally Posted by rsser

I can see why you would - for strength as once in a blue moon you might go ploughing with your axe.

And why you wouldn't - as once in a blue moon (prob the same one) you'd want it to catch on an inaccurate glancing blow.

Approximately seven times in nineteen years then. You will have to get your axe together in time for the next one on 21 May 2016. Don't worry if you miss it 'cos the next one is not until 18 May 2019.

Regards
Paul

Originally Posted by rob streeper

... I found that in the Foxfire series of books.

Now you are taking me back...

Originally Posted by Bushmiller

Approximately seven times in nineteen years then. You will have to get your axe together in time for the next one on 21 May 2016. Don't worry if you miss it 'cos the next one is not until 18 May 2019.

Regards
Paul

Plenty of time to get the bits perfectly tuned for ploughing then!

Well, reading Cook again: he advises 1/8" rounding over.

He also advises a 1/16" micro-bevel each side with an included angle of 30º. But then the blade won't shave the arm

Well, while grinding another bit this morning I looked up to see the shed full of smoke

The smoke alarm had arced up but didn't get past the ear muffs and machine racket.

Seems there was an accumulation of sparks possibly among some resin/oil/wood dust and an edge of the plastic case had started smouldering.

I guess that's a risk with 'off label' use of a portable belt sander. Seems OK now, after a thorough clean.

The sander is decades old and on its second set of bearings. Amazing life.

Timely warning, Ern.

Thanks for the reminder.

Originally Posted by rsser

He also advises a 1/16" micro-bevel each side with an included angle of 30º. But then the blade won't shave the arm

I'm with Cook, micro-bevels give strength to the edge while leaving the bit thin.

Retouching a micro-bevel is also quicker than regrinding the entire bevel.

Start micro-bevel with as little as 1/32" and retouch often up to 1/16"

Hair shaving is overrated as a test for appropriate sharpness, IMO.

Save that party trick for the your razors and kitchen knives.

Yes.

I'm learning to leave the micro-bevels till last in the rehab order of work, not least to protect the paws.

Joint first. Then work the main bevels, dry fit the handle and whatever else. Finally free hand grind and hone the micro-bevels, which takes up the jointed face, and do the final rehaft.

The current head is the Kelly Works True Temper Flint Edge and by jiminy the steel is way tougher than the Collins. The line was first brought out I think in the 30s or 40s and I reckon it's going to be a humdinger.

Time to go backwoods with a sharpening puck, a hound dawg and some chawin baccy.

The Collins Homestead Western pattern 3 lb is finished. Flat grind with micro-bevels, one 25 degree bit and the other about 18. 32" handle. Comments welcome.

Pretty looking weapon Ern!!!

Never used a double sided axe. I woner how much it takes to become accustomed to the balance.

I have not used a double bit axe either, but it occurs to me not to overdo the back swing!

The axe looks pretty.

Regards
Paul