I have another old vintage billhook in the same shape and size, and it also has the blade exactly the same curve and angle. They actually came togetther as a set a few year ago I recall now. Will get the photo of the 2nd set tomorrow. Both of them are in too consistent perfect shape and condition for damaged billhooks by tractor
Two things come to mind. Firstly that that would be an awfully useful tool for cutting water reeds, and secondly that you could break hazel rods into split withies quite tidily with it, kedge it apart kind of thing, very effectively. Hurdle making and the like.
Not at all sure if that was their intended use, but yeah, that wriggle of the wrist and forearm on the curve. I'd use that quite happily.
Funny how old farm tools had so many uses that are pretty much obsolete now though.
M
Yeah, there was a faint letter in front of Dutc, I thought and ignored.L duff ,that's what it looks like to me , probably the forgers name like you get on the GB axe's