Plumb (ax) hatchet identification

[Yar]

Hey all. I'm just getting into collecting vintage axes and I bought this Plumb recently for a few bucks. It's in great shape with the handle attached. Is this considered a hatchet? The bit is considerably smaller than a felling ax and the total length is 24 inches, but it's much beefier and longer than my Marbles camp axe.

 

[Yar]

As a comparison, here is a pic of the hatchet next to a plumb felling bit.

 

[garry3]

Its a boys axe or sometimes caller a 3/4 axe. The haft I don't believe is original to the axe. Most of those boys axe heads will weigh 2 1/4 pounds and they are usually on hafts around 28"- 26". That size haft is more popular on the Hudson Bay style boys axes.

Looks like it is in pretty good condition and most Plumbs are really great axes. Congratulations on your purchase.

 

[Chignecto Woodsman]

I don't know a lot about Plumb axes, but it's a very nice one. Probably not a lot of wear.

Judging by size it's probably 2-1/4 pounds, and I think 24" is perfect for limbing. A lot of people call these a Boy's axe, or 3/4 axe. Maybe even a limbing or swamping axe.

I'm sure someone can tell you more about it, I'd like to know what the WC is.

 

[Square_peg]

Nice boys axe. Someone did a fine job of re-hanging it. Mushrooming was removed off the poll some time in the not too distant past. The edge looks to have been filed and honed rather than sharpened on a grinder which could destroy the temper. 24" is a handy length and about the minimum for that size axe.

I presume the initials are just a mark from a previous owner.

 

[halfaxe]

Plumb would put the same head on handles of various lengths, then call it a different name. Not sure about yours, just a general observation on Plumb axes.

 

[Double Ott]

A 2 Lb to 2.5 Lb head on a 18" to 23 inch handle would be called a "House Axe". Plumb made some great axes.

Tom

 

[Curt Hal]

I have one of those. I believe the edge had the hardest steel I have ever worked on! Nice find!