It's an unusual axe/mawle head? Would be interested in any suggestions.
			
			
			
				Fascinating!
Do those 2 'levers' push out to open the log further?
			
			
			
				You're getting there Tim!
			
			
			
				My first thought, before I saw the axe mentioned, was that it was part of the linkage mechanism between train carriages - what with many allotments being alongside the tracks. 
Just shows first impressions can be misleading :)
			
			
			
				That was my first impression too!!
			
			
			
				Keep going Tim!
			
			
			
				It looks as f there is a spring mechanism that will tend to push the axe out of the groove after the swing. In other words to prevent the axe jamming in the wood!
http://www.allaboutliverpool.com/allaboutallotments2_my_allotment_in_liverpool.html
			
			
			
				Allab,
You have the gist of how it operates,
Still made in the 'Excited States' @ $60. The postage though?
Might try an old fashioned hardware store to fit a Hickoryshaft?
Used to have one here, sold out to M&S to expand 'their' store.
The old fashioned store owners have now moved to Barbados on the profits!
F*ck the faithfull 60 year customers!
I'm a cynical get!
 
			
			
			
				You can buy them new in this country.