Axe Drift
Axe Drift
The dimensions of the top of the drift are as follows: 2 ½” wide, ¾” thick. The tapered portion of the drift is 7-8 inches long, and the handle portion is approximately 6-7” long. The drift portion is forged with closed dies under the 600 lb steam hammer resulting in a consistent shape across its length. (UPDATE: I’ve recently had trouble with my closed dies and therefore some of the drifts are open die forged and ground to shape. However the end result looks and functions the same.) This axe drift is suitable to drift eyes in axes that are in the 1-4 pound range.
Note that these are for order in 4140 and 4340 alloy steel, and H13 tool steel. If you are ordering a drift made out of H13 please be aware that this steel is air-hardening and should be hit with a softer hammer to avoid dangerous fractures from forming in the drift. 4140 or 4340 is what I would recommend in most situations, but H13 is the best steel for production forging, and working with a hydraulic press in particular.