French Boarding Axe?

Scallywag76 · 11th April 2025, 02:59 PM

CC, thanks for the information! I read through your site rather thoroughly doing research before posting. Supposedly the axe I linked at the Pirate Lair has some markings but I’m not sure I can make them out in their photos. Mine is too pitted to make anything out unfortunately.

I’m very tempted to put a new handle on this. I have an ash shovel handle I could cut down to about 16-24 inches and carve into a shape similar to what I’ve seen on most historic axes. For langets I’d possibly go with brass as I don’t believe I’ve got access to a forge to make them from steel. Are there any historic accounts of brass langets either as original or as shipboard repairs? Also would langets be paired with a typical wedge or are they a standalone means of attaching head to handle? Thanks!

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11th April 2025, 02:59 PM	#4
Scallywag76 Member Join Date: Apr 2025 Posts: 3	CC, thanks for the information! I read through your site rather thoroughly doing research before posting. Supposedly the axe I linked at the Pirate Lair has some markings but I’m not sure I can make them out in their photos. Mine is too pitted to make anything out unfortunately. I’m very tempted to put a new handle on this. I have an ash shovel handle I could cut down to about 16-24 inches and carve into a shape similar to what I’ve seen on most historic axes. For langets I’d possibly go with brass as I don’t believe I’ve got access to a forge to make them from steel. Are there any historic accounts of brass langets either as original or as shipboard repairs? Also would langets be paired with a typical wedge or are they a standalone means of attaching head to handle? Thanks!