Brand/Manufacturer of axe head: Unknown
Handle Construction/Material: Ash, octagonal cross section
Handle Finish: Raw linseed oil
Overall Length: 14 inches
Head Length: 5.5 inches
Blade/Bit Length: 3.25 inches
Overall Weight (without sheath): 1 pounds 12 ounces (800g)
Sheath: Riveted reclaimed fire hose with leather thong
*all measurements are approximate
I obtain Budget Carver heads as retired and/or overstock units from axe throwing facilities. Bevel width varies due to inconsistency of bit thickness from the manufacturer, but bevels are flat and the grind angle is approximately 25 degrees, which is a little on the acute side. Closer to 30 degrees might be more ideal, but that would result in quite narrow bevels since these heads have a relatively thin bit compared to higher end, purpose-built carving axes. Narrow bevels make it harder to steer the cut and are also more difficult to keep flat. From the testing I have done, edge retention is fair to good even at 25 degrees, and there can be some benefit to a more acute grind like this, such as more easily push cutting across endgrain on the rims of spoons, for instance. Essentially, the grind angle I give these is a compromise to get the best carving performance and ease of maintenance out of these discarded throwing axes, with the aim of providing a good, albeit not perfect, relatively affordable carving axe that is professionally tuned and arrives shaving sharp and ready to work.
Handle texture options include scraped, scratched, and bandsawn, which respectively offer increasing levels of grip. Scraped is the smoothest, approximating 120-150grit sandpaper. Scratched handles are sanded cross-grain with 36grit sandpaper. With thousands of tiny grooves and ridges perpendicular to the grain, bandsawn texture is the grippiest. Scratched and bandsawn both significantly reduce the grip force required to maintain positive control of the tool, thereby reducing fatigue, and helping promote relaxed, fluid technique compared to smooth handles.
