Axe problem???

[yowee]

I've just recieved a Small Forest Axe (GB who else) but it seems to have a bit of damage, being a bit new to some of this gear I don't know if it will be a problem, where the metal staple is hammered in at the head it has slightly split the shaft wood only ever so slightly, will this cause a problem?
also at the bottom of the shaft where the 'eye' hole is the wood has frayed a bit, should I send it back or am I just being unduly critical?
Thanks for any help :-? :?:

[woodsitter]

it is supposed to split at the top.

[yowee]

Perhaps I need to clarify the split is not were the wedge goes in it has happend when the metal staple has been hammered in splitting the main shaft slightly ubove the head

[Chopper]

I really wouldnt worry about it unless the head is loose or works loose after little use.
If you are worried about it then why not email your problem to GB, remember that you have a 20 year guarantee, that as far as I am concerned sayes it all about their faith in their workmanship I dont know of any other manufacturer that guarantees any product for that long. :biggthump

[Hoodoo]

Use it for 10 years. If the head falls off, return it for a new one. :-D

[Rob]

Without seeing the split - it is difficult to know if it will cause a problem after some considerable use.

Would recommend taking a photograph of it and emailing it to GB. Would make sure the file is small tho - just so they dont decide not to open the picture. All after talking to who-ever sold it to you (they will probably want a picture too - unless they are local enough to take it to).

The 20 Year warranty will be on the head - but I have got free replacements for masks etc in the past - so they may well send you a new handle if one is needed.

Will be good practice drilling out the old one and replacing :wink:

[bushblade]

Hi Yowee,

I know exactly what you mean, my SFA is the same. I have had it quite a long time and it's seen a lot of use, but has not suffered in any way by this split. The split is exactly the same size today as it was the day I bought it, so I wouldn't worry about it.