Fibre-Core Chopper 1 Axe Restoration

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Bains

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Aug 9, 2015
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I recently got my hands on a Chopper 1 Axe for cheap (the fibre core handle and overall condition are great), however the blade edge itself looks like it might need work. I'm looking to get an opinion on whether this can be salvaged or if it's not even worth trying. The Fibre-Core handle which they no longer produce is perfect, there is some surface rust on the head that I'm sure some Vinegar and brushing will remove. The moving components (springs and pins) are all perfect condition.

The middle of the blade edge looks like it may have struck a nail, but the toe looks like it may have had a chunk fall off? (It doesn't look rolled over to me, let me know what your take on it is). My question is whether you think this is repairable or not and any tips you may have on how to go about correcting the tip are appreciated!

(links as the pictures are large)
http://s18.postimg.org/xm9afe2y1/Axe_1.jpg
http://s3.postimg.org/4w8ystlr7/Axe_4.jpg
http://s15.postimg.org/duu3csn4r/Axe_2.jpg
http://s21.postimg.org/gh7rip6pj/Axe_3.jpg
 
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A portable electric grinder will readily fix up the blade edge for you. Don't go about getting things (the metal) too hot or making this thing too sharp; it's a glorified splitter. I have a hard time imagining that Choppers will ever become collectibles. They sold like hot cakes for a short time in the late 70s early 1980s to spendthrift folks that couldn't deal with Dutch elm diseased rounds (and then discovered they still couldn't) and that the moving parts weren't indestructible. My local Home Hardware store still stocks parts for these!
If this baby actually works for you then go out and and enjoy it while it lasts.
 
Thanks! I'm not really getting it as a collectors piece, more so just want to try it out and have it as a conversation piece. I was told that the fibre-core handles do crap out (they stopped making them after the 80s?) but the one on this looks fine.

I messaged Chopper Axe as well and they recommended I use a file. For this type of axe head should I leave the edge pretty dull? They also recommended I use Rustoleum on the axe head. Would spray painting the springs/moving parts ruin them at all? Is Rustoleum just as good as doing the vinegar dip?
 
I wouldn't put a paper cutting edge on it, let alone a hair popping one. As sharp as you need it so it can get into the wood and let the mechanical do-dads do what they're supposed to (if they do it).
 
At the end of the day, or end of the season, merely zap the head with a light misting of WD-40. That'll sufficiently keep the rust bunnies away.
 
Do I need to remove any of the current rust? or just cover it in WD-40? Also if I do use Rustoleum can it be put on over surface rust or should I do the vinegar dip and scrub.

Thanks for the help guys!
 
Wire wheel on a power drill will quickly clean off superficial rust. I've never been much of one for paint on axe heads, stuff wears off in fairly short order if you actually use the tool.
 
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