New Axe - Oiling

[RachelUK]

Hi,

I've just treated myself to a new (first) axe. I have a Wetterlings Small Hunting Axe, it was a good mix of size, reviews and price for me and my requirements. I remember reading somewhere about oiling an axe when you get it. I couldn't find the post again so apologies if this is covered elsewhere.

If anyone is able to offer advice on best oil to use and anything else I should know about making sure I look after it properly.

Many thanks in advance.

 

[John Fenna]

I use boiled linsead oil
as BB would say

 

[RachelUK]

Lol, brilliant! Thanks Betty :You_Rock_

 

[MSkiba]

Linseed oil on the handle (apply with heat) and gun oil on the metal.

Untill you get these oils, after every use of the axe, dry it, wipe it, and rub it down with a tiny drop of any oil, even cooking oil. Any oil is better than no oil, untill you get proper oil.


I have now resorted to using the (linseed, beeswax and turp) mix, on both wood and metal and love it.

 

[MartiniDave]

Napier gun oil is very good, as is "Rangoon" oil if you can find it, again it's a gun oil, this one intended for protecting guns in storage. Both seem to form a hard wearing film on the surface of the steel.
I've also heard good things about ballistol (spl) but haven't tried it yet.

Dave

 

[Hammock Hamster]

As below gun oil for the metal work and boiled linseed or tung oil for the wood.

With the woodwork make sure it is completely dry before applying the oil, if you have been using it etc..., as if its not you will trap moisture in and cause it to rot and dont be tempted to use too much.

The metal work generally only needs a light coating and if you have a leather sheath for it beeswax is my personal favourite for protection and to get a great finish.

Hamster

 

[Fin]

I tend to oil all of my sharps in a oner - so the axe head gets a wipe of walnut oil along with all of my blades (I do occasionally use the axe to butcher poultry and joint a rabbit). A very light coating of boiled linseed oil on the shaft does the job, as others have said. Make sure it's very light and well soaked in, as it dries sticky, and a sticky shaft is blister central!

Please! No references to Bushcraft Betty and a sticky shaft!!

 

[RachelUK]

Thanks guys for all your helpful advice and taking the time to answer. Cheers!

 

[Mastino]

OK, let the addiction start: http://woodtrekker.blogspot.com/search/label/Axes

 

[Paul Webster]

I just saw this stuff in tesco, think it'd be ok?

http://www.tesco.com/groceries/Product/Details/?id=255290558

 

[MartiniDave]

Paul,

It's got the right things in it so it should be fine, just work it in well so the handle isn't slippery.

Dave