If you have been following Richardson Axeworks for any length of time, you may know that my favorite style of axe for all around use is the American Jersey pattern axe. We all know that the wide bit and characteristic lugs give the Jersey a unique and timeless look, but what makes them special? It’s the Lugs! I wanted to briefly dive into the history behind these axes and their unique designs to help us all understand why they continue to be popular today.

History: The development of the American jersey style axe can be traced back to the late 19th century. It originated in Dayton, Ohio, and quickly gained popularity throughout the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast regions. The axe was primarily used for felling trees, splitting wood, and general forestry work.

Science and Design: The lugs on an American jersey style axe are the protrusions or raised portions on either side of the eye (the hole where the handle is inserted) of the axe head. These lugs serve multiple purposes:

Reinforcement: The lugs provide additional strength and rigidity to the axe head. By extending the metal of the axe head into the handle area, the lugs distribute the force of impact more evenly, reducing the chances of the axe head loosening or breaking off the handle during heavy use.
Preventing Fractures: When an axe strikes a hard surface, such as wood, the force of impact can generate stress and cause fractures in the metal near the eye. The lugs act as stress relievers, redirecting and distributing these forces away from the eye. This helps minimize the risk of fractures and prolongs the axe's lifespan.
Secure Handle Fit: The lugs play a crucial role in securing the axe head to the handle. When the handle is inserted into the eye, the lugs create friction and resistance against the wood, preventing the head from easily slipping or coming loose during use. This ensures a secure and stable connection between the head and handle.
Improved Balance: The lugs also contribute to the overall balance of the axe. They add weight to the sides of the head, shifting the center of gravity slightly outward. This design feature can enhance the axe's swing dynamics, making it easier to control and improving the efficiency of each strike.

These design elements have been refined over time to create a reliable and effective tool not only for forestry work, but for general use around the home, farm or job site. Happy swinging!