Merit Jersey Pattern Felling Axe
Date: 1927
Weight: 4-1/2 lb.
Markings: “Merit \ Hand Forged” and 42 on the bottom of the poll
Pattern: Jersey Pattern or a Virginia Pattern
History: Merit was a Sears “brand” and Craftsman bought them in 1927. The scripted “M” in Merit was suggested to be a early stamp, but that’s from an unreliable source.
Here is a great find rescued from Harry’s Barn. This axe head was rusted up badly, but no chips. The axe had not been used much, the poll was in good shape, not much mushrooming. Harry said it belonged to his grandfather on his mothers side and that he has not used it much he preferred the other axe (a Collins commander for chopping wood).
Because of the age and the history I chose to leave this axe with as much character as I could.
The new handle is a 36 inch Link from Nichols Hardware Purcellville a wonderful old time hardware store. When I removed the varnish from the new handle I left behind some so when it was oiled and stained it would show some splotches (my hope was it would look warn from use). It didn’t come out exactly as I planned but I like the look .
Post about the “haul” here: Free Rust (May Contain Some Old Tools)
Facebook Post (private group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/AxeJunkies/permalink/1633658086672752/
Brian Paonessa
For the last 10 years I have been an Internet marketer and web developer with a passion for large system integration projects. I've spent the last few years working for a small fireworks company (Skylighter llc) helping individuals and government clients with pyrotechnic projects. my day to day tasks focus mostly on web development tasks and keeping the Skylighter email marketing machine pumping out good content and offers.