Maine has a rich axe-making history reaching as far back as the late 1800s. Boasting names like Emerson & Stevens and Dunn Edge Tool, the state was once a thriving producer of forestry tools. However, the unfortunate reality is that Maine is no longer home to some of those same storied brands. Enter Steve Ferguson, his brother Mark, and Barry Worthing. Intent on bringing the tradition back to Maine, they’ve got quite the axe to grind.
Their Allagash Cruiser Axe borrows the design from a 100-year-old Maine Wedge model located in the Patten Lumbermen’s Museum. Using the same time-tested forging techniques of their forbearers, the boys at Brant & Cochran make each axe by hand, starting with a 3.5lb lump of 1050 steel and ending with a carefully refined head. After stamping it with a C.C. Filson logo, it’s then heat-treated and tempered using saltwater from the Casco Bay. Finally, it’s mated to a premium hickory handle and secured with a black walnut wedge. What results is an axe as handsome as it is rugged, ready to perform for years to come. Included in each purchase is a custom leather sheath and a limited edition gift box. Available soon, it’ll cost $395.
