Keen Kutter Axe - Trial run

Hey folks, Just thought I'd share my trial run/review with my Keen Kutter axe.  I believe it to be the Michigan pattern.  The weight isn't marked but it doesn't feel quite as heavy as my other 3.5lb axes, I'm think thinking it feels more around 3lb or so.  It's the later Keen Kutter models based off the makers mark.  While this one is in good condition it's certainly not immaculate or anything so I think this will be an excellent user.  This axe is how I got it.  It looks like someone restored it themselves not long ago or maybe it was someone's user that knew how to take care of their axe.  I don't think the handle is original but I like it.  It's nice and thin with a nice swell at the end of the handle.  Shoulder is a little bulky but it's okay.  The hang job is decent enough on it.  I sanded the handle down and put 4 coats of BLO on it.  The edge I did just a little sharpening.  No profiling was needed.  Well let's get started here

Length 32"
Head   3ish pounds

Now for the fun stuff

two easy swings on a 3" dead oak

next up about a 6" dead oak

biting good

this did not take long at all.  about 6 or 7 swings per side

next I found a fallen oak tree that was around 12-15" or so and thought I'd see how it would chop through.  It was throwing excellent chips and though it was a little rotten in the middle I was still impressed with how fast it went through it

the edge held up great.  I honestly didn't notice any dulling after the uses

did great for finer work too

Well I'm really liking this axe.  The length and weight felt very good.  This is about as long as I care to swing but it sure did a fine job today. 


Thanks for looking