Biscayne and a steel insert

[French Colonial]

To all of you more knowledgeable than myself regarding Biscayne trade axes.

Did the originals have steel inserts for the blade like some of the modern builders are doing or not?

Just curious, I would think not but do not know.

Thanks!

 

[LongWalker]

I've seen archaeologically-recovered hatchets both with and without a steel insert. Not sure if it depended on the time frame, maker/contract, intended customer, etc. The only archaeologically-recovered Biscayne-pattern ax I've examined in-hand did have a steel insert.