This is one of my Guide Axes with about a 1 pound head and 11”  hickory handle that I made using pattern welded steel.

I make the damascus steel here in my shop. The steel is alternating layers of 1080 and 15N20

Once I am done with all the forging, grinding, and heat treating the head is etched in acid to reveal the different kinds of steel. I then apply a carnuba wax finish to help protect the steel.

This ax has been fully hardened and tempered and is fully functional. It is hardened to about 57 Rockwell and comes with a razor sharp cutting edge.

The colors in the pattern of the steel will wear off with use but it will not effect the performance of the ax.