Description
The head of this hatchet is forged from high carbon steel, carefully tempered to a hardness of 52 on the Rockwell scale. This treatment provides a firm edge that holds well while maintaining enough toughness to withstand heavy use without chipping. The blade is fastened securely to a solid hardwood handle using steel pins, a traditional method that ensures the head remains fixed even under the harshest conditions. Originally made for the British Royal Air Force, this hatchet served as a survival tool for pilots who found themselves trapped in the wreckage of their downed aircraft. Its compact form and robust build also meant it could serve as a close-quarters weapon if the need arose. The hatchet comes with a leather sheath designed to protect the blade when stowed. This piece represents a prototype model, never mass-produced.
- Overall length: 14-1/4″
- Blade dimensions: 7-3/4″ long, 3/16″ thick, with a 2-5/8″ cutting edge
- Weight: 1 lb 6 oz
Fun fact: The RAF Crash Rescue Hatchet was designed not only as a survival tool but also as a symbol of the pilot’s grit and ingenuity, embodying the spirit of self-reliance in the skies.
