Print

[Willitend]

I've had this for a long time now, it came from my late Father-in-Law's shed.

I would be very grateful if anyone has had personal use of one so they can give a definitive answer as to what exactly this is and it's likely history. I have always assumed that it was some type of old design fire axe. The thought of it dating back to the second world war is fascinating.

It's perfect for removing oil seals, so I keep it as a tool for my S2.

Unfortunately, it is quite corroded, but I've manged to clean it up to some extent and found what is obviously a stamped-in motif with the clear date of 1942 underneath.  Apologies for the quality of the pictures.

Thanks

[nathanglasgow]

WW2 RAF rescue axe

[Rory]

WW2 Aircraft escape axe, and, according to the antiques roadshow a couple of weeks ago, worth about £200.

[Willitend]

Thanks for the replies,

Interesting thought that it may have been on a WW2 RAF aircraft - Had no idea!

Off chance - Is there anyone on here ex-RAF who may have personal knowledge of it's use?

[Gertie]

WW2 Aircraft escape axe, and, according to the antiques roadshow a couple of weeks ago, worth about £200.

That's an expensive oil seal removal tool!   

[Rory]

I know that if you look at the markings on, certainly 50’s and 60’s , aircraft you will see a yellow dashed line sometimes with an axe decal beside them.

[Wittsend]

 

[Manxcat]

That axe is called Eugene, please be careful with it. 

[Wittsend]

.... and set the controls for the heart of the sun 

[agg221]

Just don't let Emily play with it 

[Willitend]

Thanks for the replies,

It's obviously worth doing some more research on it. Unfortunately, the corrosion has made identifying the stamped - in motif difficult to identify but the date is definitely right. I'll try some more rust treatment.

[Rory]

I think it’s a standard escape axe fitted to most multi engine aircraft during WW2 , the beak is to brake the plexiglass canopy’s.