An axe has many parts, but not all of them are the same. For example, the parts of a full-steel axe do not include an eye, while the parts of a double-bit axe differ from those of a single-bit axe. The parts of an axe also vary according to the type of axe, and they are all named after different parts of the human body.
Throat
The throat of an axe is the part of the handle where the haft curves to make a short grip. It is an important part of the axe because it affects its durability and comfort. A poorly made throat can cause your hands and wrists to become sore, and it will not be comfortable to hold. Therefore, the throat and belly of an axe should be inspected carefully.
Axes typically have a bit at one end, or “bit,” and a poll at the other end. Some axes have two bits on opposite sides, or a double-edged blade. The ax bit also has a cheek, which is the part of the head that extends downwards from the handle. In addition, there is an eye at the haft mounting hole.
Belly
Axes have many parts. The axe bit is the most important part and contributes to its efficiency and durability. The bit consists of three parts: the toe (top edge), the heel (bottom edge) and the beard (middle part). Keeping the bit sharp is critical for a good cut and longer life for the axe.
The belly of an axe is the part opposite to the blade and is often made with a slight bow. This area is also important because it determines where the axe is held. A poor quality axe may have a crooked belly, so look for an axe with a straight grain.
The beard and cheeks are also important parts of an axe. The toe is where the cutting edge starts and the portion of the axe head that is used to hit the target. Always sharpen this area of the axe before using it. The heel is the lower corner of the axe head, and it may be used for puncturing and detail work.
Eye
The Eye of an axe is the top-most part of the handle of an axe. Typically, the head of an axe is wider than its handle. This is due to the eye’s function of allowing wood to swell. However, some axes may have a wood-filled eye. If this is the case, it is imperative to remove the wood to properly measure the Eye of an axe.
A farmer who grows axes will need to center the pith of the axe in order to center it in the eye. This means that the tree’s trunk will squeeze into the eye, thereby creating a more balanced center. In addition, young trees may push their trunks into the inner walls of the eye, which causes the center of the axe to become more balanced.
Gaurd
There are three basic parts of an ax: the Bit, the Gaurd, and the Heel. The Bit, which is also known as the blade or edge, is the most important part of an ax. Keeping it sharp is vital to the efficiency and durability of the axe. The Bit has two main parts: the Toe at the top and the Heel at the bottom of the cutting edge. The Gaurd is the area above and below the bit.
The shoulder: The shoulder is the joint where the axe head mounts onto the haft. The haft is the longest part of an axe, so it should be carefully inspected. Axes can be broken at this part, and there are a number of methods for rejoining the head and the handle.