Finlay Axe

[littlebiglane]

Hi - anyone got any views on this axe (or have one?)

http://www.a-finlay-primitive-crafts.co.uk/woodsman_axe_large.html

 

[British Red]

No - I'd like to know more though - steel, whether it forged or cast etc. The finish looks very neat if forged. Could be a good axe - its more expensive than an equivalent GB or Cegga so it would need to be very good to be worth the money - but it could be!

I've written to ask as I suspect they should be a quality forged head at that price - although the photos look a little odd to me if they are. I'll let you know what answers I get.

Red

 

[BorderReiver]

That's an interesting site,lots of quality looking gear,at quality prices though.

Would you post your reply in this thread please Red?

 

[sandbender]

Both of their axes look really nice, but it's the small flint knife that has stolen my heart

http://www.a-finlay-primitive-crafts.co.uk/traditional_knapped_small.html

 

[British Red]

Okay guys - heres Alan's reply

Thanks for your enquiry.

The axes that are currently in stock are a handcast head although we can do the same heads in forged or whatever head you prefer either cast or forged. Obviously one off commissions are a non stocked item and this information is not covered on any of our internet sites.

All heads are hand ground. As for the angles they are generally left at 20 - 30% although these can be left broader or taken down to 15% etc. The finer the edge the better the cutting but like any fine edged implement will require greater maintainance.

As for the Rockwell stock axes like the ones on the site are hardened to 58 plus or minus 1. Again on private work these can be taken up to the late 60's during the manufacturing or in fact can be treated using cryogenics to achieve an even higher Rockwell.

As for the heads being forged by one of the big 3. No they are most certainly not.

Generally the 2 sizes that are in our shop are the most common, although we are currently working on a new model introducing Titanium to the range which will be about 14" give or take but purely a survival tool for emergency use not as a general knock about the woods tool.

Hopefully my ramblings have answered some of your questions
Carry on enjoying life bye for now.

Regards Alan

Seems like a sensible set of answers and potentially another valid choice to our axe makers. I guess the next logical step is for someone to take the plunge and review one. Happy to do it - but it'll be April when I get the chance

Red

 

[Barn Owl]

I've got one of his knifes (bushcrafter) and it's fine,as is his leatherwork.
He lives not far from me,but I don't really know him and haven't done any of his courses.
Very nice fellow though.

 

[littlebiglane]

I think I'll take the plunge - I'll let you know how I get on.

 

[BorderReiver]

Thanks for posting the reply Red.

Sounds like the prices are justified.

Any more gems hiding round the country waiting to be found?