Axe Wedge Question

[lightfoot]

I've just re-helved a hatchet with a 14" hickory handle. I've inserted an ash wedge the length of the eye and want to also add a metal wedge or two. Can anyone tell me of a supplier for such wedges and if they have a particular name? Searching the net under 'axe wedges', 'metal axe wedges' etc throws up far too much other stuff.

 

[Bri30]

Hi Lightfoot

Most tool shops will sell these, or if you need online then http://www.tooled-up.com/MicroCategory.asp?MAN=Wedges&CID=22&SCID=555&MCID=2468 have a good selection.

HTH

Cheers Brian

 

[lightfoot]

Thanks Brian. I saw that site on one of my earlier searches but assumed there must be some difference between hammer wedges and axe wedges. Is it okay to use hammer wedges then? If so, what size is appropriate for a hatchet with an eye measuring 1.25" by 0.5"?

 

[British Red]

You want a size 1 axe wedge - the plain flat one without ridges

Red

 

[lightfoot]

Thanks Red

 

[lightfoot]

Red, I've contacted all my local stores, including builders merchants, and nobody stocks axe wedges but they do have hammer wedges. I contacted Faithful, who made the hickory axe handle I have used, and they told me to use a hammer wedge!

So, either I use a hammer wedge which you don't recommend or I use an axe wedge which you do recommend. If I am to do the latter that brings me back to my original question: Where do I get axe wedges from?

 

[British Red]

PM me your address and I'll send you one Lightfoot

Red

 

[Mirius]

OK, so what is the difference between a ring wedge as on the above link and an axe wedge? Or is it merely that there were none of the right size in that link?

 

[lightfoot]

PM me your address and I'll send you one Lightfoot

Red

Thanks Red, I'll PM my address to you if you'll accept a token donation to your Injured Forces Personnel appeal.

 

[lightfoot]

OK, so what is the difference between a ring wedge as on the above link and an axe wedge? Or is it merely that there were none of the right size in that link?

I don't know Mirius. All the wedges on that site state that they're hammer wedges. I got the impression from re-helving tutorials that I'm supposed to use wedges that are specifically designed for axes. I guess British Red is the man to answer that question.

 

[British Red]

OK, so what is the difference between a ring wedge as on the above link and an axe wedge? Or is it merely that there were none of the right size in that link?

Gransfors use flat wedges, Wettelings use ring wedges Mirius - both work as, used correctly, they are just a way of secoring the wooden wedge!

Lightfoot - thats a deal - I'll have a look in the "box of much stuff" for you later in the week!

Red