Is that a bad fitted Small forest axe? [PIC HEAVY, BUT DETAILED]

[willowbow]

I just made a purchase for an Small Forest Axe from a local shop. It came by post and I made inspection of it and found that handle is not fit tight enough on the back of the head in underside. I wonder if that is an issue or it is normal and so I don’t have to worry about it. Here is a few pics that I have taken. I put a toothpick in that gap and it goes about 2 cm deep. Might go deeper if I insert an thin wire. Head is not loose no wobble nor sideways movement, but I hardly used it for any serious task yet.
The top part is have been made tight and nice thou.
Is it ok to use it or should I return it?

Look like small gap on top too. but that one is like small and shallow. Not a problem I think.

Also a end of the handle looks like been cracket just a tiny bit, but been glued with something. Not an issue this one, but they advertise as they are not using anything to mask fails in production.

 

[rancid badger]

I'd return it, immediately and demand a replacement or full refund.

If the retailer is local then I'd return it in person.

It may well be fine but I suspect not. There is certainly plenty of scope for serious doubt.

I don't like the look of it and definitely would have rejected it in a shop if I'd had the chance to inspect it before purchase.

Good luck.

 

[John Fenna]

If you are not happy - send it back ... it is not up to the usual GB standard for sure!

 

[dwardo]

Would it be safe to use? More than likely. Would i be happy paying GB prices for that level of finish?
Not a chance, send it back and ask them to try again....................................

On the other hand if i paid a tenner for a no-brand kindling spliiter from BnQ I would be happy.

 

[robevs73]

Send it back, I had a Ray mears wilderness axe from Woodlore a few years ago with a similar issue and I had it exchanged immediately.

 

[Tony]

Yeah, as the others have said (So I should probably not do it again) politely ask for a refund and they're likely to do it no problem, it's a quality tool with an expected standard of workmanship and finish and if it's not attained that level you should feel comfortable in exchanging it.