Council Tool Double Bit Axe

Description

10-1/2” long blade, 3.5 lb. Michigan pattern double bit axe with a 36″ straight wooden handle.

Michigan pattern originated from the state of the same name. Double bit axes were sometimes sharpened in different ways. One end was thinner and sharper and used for knot-free cutting; the other end was thicker and blunter and was used when knots were present or to cut near the ground where contact with dirt was likely. All Council axe heads are drop forged from high quality tool steel. The forging is then processed in an abrasive robotic work cell where the trim lines are removed, the shape refined and the cutting edges are ground, which yields highly consistent heads. Cutting edges are then heat treated and tempered. The poll and eye walls are not hardened and remain in the forged condition. Heads are either painted or lacquered to deter rust and all polished surfaces are lacquered or oiled. The final sharpening of the cutting edge is by hand using fine grit abrasives.

Care is taken to not affect the tempered hardness of the bit. ANSI Standards call for bit hardness of Rc 45-60, at least ½ inch back from the cutting edge. Council Tool internal standards call for tempered bit hardness of Rc 48-55 and we target 1-1/4 inches from the cutting edge.

The head is coated with red enamel and the cutting edges in clear lacquer to deter rust. Eye section of the American Hickory handle is dried to below 10% moisture content to minimize shrinkage and help prevent loosening. The axe head is hydraulically seated onto the handle and secured with a serrated extruded aluminum wedge. The serrated shape improves bite, and the aluminum choice of material is strong, lightweight and does not change size with moisture content. The interior detail of the eye is tapered and allows for a strong mechanical bond. Made in USA.