Double Bit Patterns

The term was often used for a single-bit axe, with a 3-4lb head and a 30-36 handle. However, there are many different shapes and patterns of chopping axe based on the region they were made and the types of trees primarily being chopped down. This includes single-bit and double-bit axes.

As you can see, there are quite a few patterns. This doesn't even scratch the surface. There are at least 17 different single-bit head patterns and 11 double-bit head patterns. One of the most distinguishable features of the different patterns is the lug. The lug is the quotVquot shaped portion of the head which comes into contact with the handle.

This limited edition, handmade Maine wedge pattern double bit cruiser is distinguished by a distinct peak in the center of the axe and a unique diamond shaped eye. Don't miss out on your piece of the Brant amp Cochran legacy with this unique axe.

3.5 lbs. Michigan pattern double bit axe with phantom bevels and a 36 in. straight handle. Phantom bevels or hollows are designed to reduce sticking and minimize burst wood chips. Michigan pattern originated from the state of the same name. Double bit axes were sometimes sharpened in different ways.

Double-Bit Axes Despite early versions of the double-bit ax discov-ered in Crete, which date back thousands of years, the modern double-bit ax is uniquely American. Throughout history, people have used axes to serve multiple purposes and to meet a variety of chopping needs, but they designed the double-bit ax figure 5-6 specifically for felling trees.

Michigan Michigan Pattern Likely the most common double bit produced, this pattern is also referred to as the quotCrownquot pattern.

Various types of axes include felling axes, splitting axes, hatchets, tomahawks, carpenter's axes, forest axes, adzes, and double-bit axes. Each type serves specific purposes, such as cutting down trees, splitting wood, carving, combat, and woodworking, showcasing their versatility across diverse applications. There are many types of axes and axe heads. They each have their own design

But the double-bit axes with a long, narrow, heavy ax head and a long handle, were developed for cutting large trees in the Pacific Northwest. Some of the patterns from this area were the Puget Sound, the Young's felling pattern, the Redwood pattern, and the Humboldt pattern.

The head weight was and is a personal decision. I really like my 3 14 pound Michigan pattern over the more common 3 12 pound Michigan double bit. Too bad you can't go to a hardware store today and heft various axe patterns and weights. The Michigan pattern was popular in the upper midwest where most of the trees were big white and red pines.

These are the most commonly known double bit axe head types. Axe heads were altered to best suit the task they were performing, as well as their location.