Old Tassie Australian Pattern Axe Head – Heavy Hardwood Felling Axe

This fine vintage felling axe head features the famous "Tasmanian" (or "Tassie") pattern, specifically engineered for felling dense, tough Australian hardwoods like Jarrah and Karri. Crafted with a thick poll, high cheeks, and a deep timber-cutting geometry, this heavy-duty axe head is a prime example of mid-century forestry equipment.

• Head & Geometry: Features a short, high-profile bit with pronounced cheek thickness designed to pop large wood chips and prevent binding in hard, gummy timber. Displays a clean, dark charcoal aged patina with light surface character.

• Poll & Bit: Features a thick, solid poll and a hand-profiled cutting edge with substantial steel mass remaining, free from major chips, stress fractures, or weld repairs.

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The eye remains square and clean, retaining its original heavy-duty profile. Ideal for vintage edge-tool collectors, axe restorers, or timber-sports enthusiasts.

History

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, standard American and European axe patterns struggled when facing the extreme density of native Australian eucalyptus and ironbark hardwoods. Major edge-tool foundries—including Kelly Axe & Tool Co., Hytest, and Elwell—developed the Tasmanian pattern (commonly referred to by woodsmen as "Old Tassie") specifically for the Australian timber market.

Characterized by its stocky, heavy body and wedge-like cheeks, the Tassie pattern quickly became the gold standard for foresters in Tasmania and mainland Australia. It also gained legendary status in competitive woodchopping (timber sports) worldwide due to its superior weight distribution and penetration power in tough hardwoods.

Dimensions

• Head Length (Poll to Cutting Edge): ~6.5 – 7.25 inches

• Cutting Edge Width (Bit): ~4.25 – 4.75 inches

• Poll Dimensions: ~1.25 x 1.75 inches

• Eye Dimensions: ~2.25 x 0.75 inches

• Head Weight: ~4.5 lbs (Standard heavy Tassie weight class)