couple questions about racing axes

W

wdmn

Joined
Nov 29, 2013
Messages
167
Hi all,

I've never had the opportunity to work on a racing axe and have a couple of questions:

1) sharpening: i've heard some of these things are too hard for a file... is that true (I don't have one to try on, which is why I'm asking)? Anyone on the forum who uses them, what are your techniques for sharpening (I know there's a good thread about the different grinds, I mean do you finish with stones, how fine? etc)

2) rehanging: I've noticed from pics that most racing axes have a small hole between the cheek and poll (on the face of the eye). Is that for a pin? I'm assuming that rehanging a racing axe head is for the most part the same process as a regular single bit?


Thanks
 
A forum member who goes by moosecreektrails has a great method for sharpening racing axes.
 
I have time for a little longer answer now.

1. Yes, you should be able to file a racing axe. A good file will cut steel up to about RC 60. Steel harder than that would be too brittle for the impacts that an axe is expected to withstand. After filing I finish with stones much finer than necessary. What can I say - I'm anal about sharpening my axes.
tongue2.gif

I remove the file marks with a coarse Norton stone and raise a burr - flip repeat. Then I go to the fine side of that stone followed by a 6000 grit hard black Arkansas stone followed by a razor stone - approx 10,000 grit. Then I might give it a light buffing. Sometimes it's sharper off the razor stone. Sometimes it's sharper off the buffer. If it loses a little sharpness on the buffer then I hit it with the razor stone again. This produces an edge similar to the scary sharp system. Touch it carelessly and it will bleed you good. Yet it will hold up to axe work because of the angle of the grind (it loses a little sharpness with use).

2. Yes, the hole is for a pin. It's required in competition axes. With a good hang you shouldn't need it. A good hardware store with have roll pins in a variety of sizes should you choose to use one. The pin should have to compress slightly to fit the hole. If you can't find a pin of the perfect size then buy the next size larger and re-drill the pin hole as necessary.

Hope this helps.
 
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