Marble's Safety Axes, Old and Reproductions

[1967redrider]

I didn't see a thread that covered all Safety Axes, so I started this one. Here are original and reproduction ones I have picked up along the way, both No. 5's, with some info from Arni Dunathan's book, The Encyclopedia of Marble's Knives & Sporting Collectibles.


Post 'em if you got 'em. Hit me back if you have specific axes in question.

[cody6268]

Marbles Black Composition Handle #3 Safety Axe (MR003) marketed by Smoky Mountain Knife Works and Blue Ridge associated dealers. I picked it up about 3 years ago from SMKW, and I don't know how long they made it, but it may be discontinued as I'm seeing few on eBay and SMKW is out of stock. MSRP was $30.

Said to be made in Canada, but I believe that at most, it was assembled there. I think it was made in China.

Steel is 440A (not a tough carbon steel), and both guard and handle are a lightweight nylon-based plastic. Roughly 24 ounces, and just short of a foot OAL. Head is about 4" long with a 2" bit.

I did accidentally crack the guard when I forgot to fold it out of the way before use. I put some Gorilla Tape on there, and it's held up, and it also keeps the cover from popping out when in use and folded back.

I have used it extensively, but for the money, I'd recommend the Fiskars 10-inch. Same exact cost ($30), only slightly heavier, but a considerably bigger head and more handle (2 1/2 inches), as well as a removable plastic cover/carry handle. It's also made from a quality carbon tool steel. Despite the extra size, it's still a superlight packable hatchet that can get serious work done. The Marbles' reproduction I have is really a novelty.

My main complaint is that the handles are uncomfortable. The chequering is too aggressive, and it tears one's hands up when not wearing gloves.

[1967redrider]

Nice review, cody.

I had a housemate lock channel locks on a screwdriver once for more twisting leverage. The problem is, the locks left deep cuts in the plastic screwdriver handle, making it very uncomfortable to use without wearing gloves.

[ea42]

Nice examples guys! Here's a bunch from a display in our museum in Napanoch, NY:

Eric

[1967redrider]

Awesome display, Eric.

I need to swing by that museum sometime. I did get to see the NKCA museum set up in the SMKW building back around 2011, it was an awesome display.

[Jacknifeben]

My two with a old catalog.

[1967redrider]

Those are awesome, Jkb.

[Miller Bro's]

Here's one, I have some safety folders also.

[1967redrider]

Nice, Miller.

[Leo7504]

Here are some from my personal collection.

[1967redrider]

Gorgeous #2, #3 & #5, Leo.

[Miller Bro's]

Excellent examples!

[Violetellen]

How do I know what year my marbles axe no 2 was made??

[Violetellen]

Pic 1