Billnas Hatchet/Hammer Tool - Information?

[The_Amateur]

Hey everyone,

I came across this Hatchet/Hammer tool. It was made in Finland and from the research I've done it looks like it was made by Billnas, a company that's been around for a few centuries and are known for their axe blades. I've searched and cannot find anything on this tool. It looks pretty old. Anyone have any info on it or know how old it is? Post the URL below in a browser to see the pics:

http://s1372.photobucket.com/user/todojodo/library/

 

[crosslandkelly]

Looks like a roofers hammer to me. The hatchet side would have been used for splitting and shaping wooden shingles.

 

[Robbi]

and the "hole" in the shaft is for pulling out nails.

 

[crosslandkelly]

A modern equivalent.

 

[Sparky415]

I would call it a crate tool

 

[crosslandkelly]

I would call it a crate tool

I think you're right. Looking at the pics again, it looks like the prybar end has snapped off, or been removed. Good call.

 

[The_Amateur]

That seems to be the consensus on the American forums. Used in shipyards, etc. for opening crates. Looking at it again in person, yes it looks like the pry bar has basically been worn down to a smooth nub. Someone linked me to a modern equivalent of this tool:

http://www.leevalley.com/US/Wood/page.aspx?p=32016&cat=1,43456,43407&ap=1

 

[The_Amateur]

How old do you think it is? I'm thinking 1920's - 1930's?