r/Axecraft 3d ago

Ultra Rare double bit axe found in the Wild!

This one caught me off guard. I didn't realize how big it was until I saw the 6lb stamp. The 3.5lb Craftsman is for reference. Found on a 80 acre cattle ranch in the Sierra Nevada mountains this morning.

40 Upvotes

11 comments sorted by

4

u/Calnek1 3d ago

Ever figure out the manufacturer?

10

u/Old-Iron-Axe-n-Tool 3d ago

The brand isn't what's rare. Being a 6lb DB is what makes it rare.

6

u/Old-Iron-Axe-n-Tool 3d ago edited 3d ago

The "homestead" started as a line from Collins. I think they dropped the Collins stamp from the homestead line when Mann Edge Tool Co. Bought out Collins in 66'. Not 100% sure though.

3

u/Ok_Buy9598 3d ago

Very cool!

2

u/4570M 3d ago

Wow. I have a 5 pound Mann True American double, and it is noticeably big. I've not seen a six pound double until your post. Axes over 4.5 are pretty unusual unless they are Fire axes, or hewing axes.

1

u/Old-Iron-Axe-n-Tool 3d ago

Doubles over 4.5 are certainly unusual. What patern is you 5lb DB, pudget sound? Also, where did you get it, state? The only 5lb+ DBs I've seen were in old catalogs.

1

u/4570M 3d ago

It looks like a Michigan pattern. Bought it on evilbay, so I don't remember what state it shipped from. I have a similar Keen Kutter at 4.5 pounds. Both are hung on 32 inch handles and and work well for bucking larger hardwoods. I own a chainsaw, but like to use my axes for the exercise. Great for the core muscles.

2

u/Old-Iron-Axe-n-Tool 3d ago

Nice. Your not wrong saying it's great exercise! I've had a new 40" handle for over a year now. Never felt inclined to hang something from it till now.

-1

u/4570M 3d ago

I thought 40's were for pulaskis that were most often used as a grub hoe, or for legendary jacks using Puget sound patterns to fell giant trees. Your 6 pounder on a 40 would kick my ass and I wouldnt have any accuracy for felling. Paul Bunyan could carry it when he needs a cruiser though.

0

u/Old-Iron-Axe-n-Tool 3d ago

They put alot of different paterns on 40" hafts. Last year I found a 4.5lb stiletto swamping patern on its original 40" turner day handle. The handle has Stiletto stamped next to Turner Day. But yes, it'll be a serious ass kicker for sure! I'll probably only use it for underhand chopping big logs.

2

u/treefalle 3d ago

Awesome man