What Is a 1940s BSA Plumb Hatchet Axe Worth Today?

If you’ve stumbled upon an old axe stamped with “Boy Scouts of America” and “Plumb,” you’re probably wondering: What is this 1940s Boy Scouts of America BSA Plumb hatched axe worth today? Whether you inherited it, found it in an attic, or are considering a purchase, understanding its true market value is essential. These rugged, historic tools hold both nostalgic and monetary value—but pricing can vary wildly based on condition, rarity, and provenance. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 1940s Boy Scouts of America BSA Plumb hatched axe price, so you can make smart, informed decisions.

What Is the 1940s BSA Plumb Hatchet?

The 1940s Boy Scouts of America BSA Plumb hatched axe—often called a “hatchet” due to its compact size—was a standard-issue tool provided to Scouts for camping, woodcraft, and outdoor survival skills. Manufactured by Mann Edge Tool Co. (which acquired the Plumb brand) under official BSA contract, these axes typically feature:

• A 14- to 16-inch hardwood handle (usually hickory)
• A carbon steel head stamped with “Boy Scouts of America” and “Plumb”
• A leather sheath (in early models, though many are missing today)
• A weight of approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds

These tools weren’t just functional—they symbolized the self-reliance and outdoor ethics central to Scouting. According to the Boy Scouts of America National Historical Collection, over 200,000 such axes were distributed between the late 1930s and early 1950s, but far fewer survive in collectible condition.

💡 Fun Fact: The Plumb brand, founded in 1867, was one of America’s most trusted axe makers—so much so that BSA chose them for official gear. Learn more about its legacy on Wikipedia.

What Drives the 1940s BSA Plumb Hatchet’s Market Value?

Not all vintage BSA axes are created equal. Four key factors determine your 1940s Boy Scouts of America BSA Plumb hatched axe price:

1. Condition

• Mint/Near Mint: Original finish, no rust, intact handle, and original sheath → $120–$250+
• Good/Used: Minor pitting, solid handle, no cracks → $60–$120
• Poor/Damaged: Broken handle, heavy rust, missing stamp → $20–$50

2. Originality

Reproduction handles or resharpened heads drastically reduce value. Collectors prioritize 100% original parts.

3. Provenance

Axes with documented BSA camp history, troop markings, or Scoutmaster provenance can fetch 20–30% premiums.

4. Rarity of Markings

Some axes feature unique stamps like “Official Equipment” or “Property of [Troop Number].” These are highly sought after.

Where to Buy or Sell a Vintage BSA Plumb Hatchet

Knowing where to transact matters just as much as knowing the value.

Trusted Marketplaces:

• Etsy: Best for mint-condition axes; prices average $140–$220
• eBay: High volume; use “Sold” filter to see real prices—recent sales show $65–$190
• Facebook Scout Collectors Groups: Private sales often yield better prices with less buyer competition
• Antique Tool Shows: Ideal for verifying authenticity in person

🛠️ Pro Tip: Always ask sellers for clear photos of the stamp, handle grain, and sheath stitching. Fakes exist—some modern replicas mimic BSA markings but lack period-correct details like forged eye shape or wood grain orientation.

How to Authenticate Your 1940s BSA Plumb Hatchet

Follow these 5 steps to confirm you have a genuine piece:

1. Check the Stamp: Should read “Boy Scouts of America” arched over “Plumb” on the axe head’s poll (flat end). No copyright symbols—those appeared post-1955.
2. Examine the Handle: Originals are unfinished hickory, not painted or varnished. Look for hand-sanded smoothness.
3. Measure the Head: Authentic Plumb BSA hatchets have a 3.25-inch blade and 1.75-inch eye (hole for handle).
4. Inspect the Sheath: Early 1940s sheaths are brown leather, stitched with waxed thread, and often stamped with troop numbers.
5. Verify Tool Markings: Plumb used a “diamond P” logo on higher-end models—though not all BSA axes carry it.

If in doubt, compare your axe to verified examples in the BSA National Scouting Museum archive or consult a tool appraiser via the Antique Tool Collectors Association.

Common Mistakes When Valuing Vintage BSA Axes

Avoid these pitfalls:

• Confusing Plumb with Council Tool or Collins axes: Other brands made BSA-approved tools, but only Plumb has the specific stamp.
• Overestimating sentimental value: Emotional attachment doesn’t equal market value.
• Ignoring rust damage: Surface rust can be cleaned, but pitting = permanent devaluation.
• Assuming all old axes are rare: Due to mass production, common-condition pieces aren’t scarce.

FAQ Section

Q1: How much is a 1940s BSA Plumb hatchet worth if it’s missing the sheath?
A: Without the original sheath, value drops by 25–40%. A good-condition axe might sell for $70–$100 instead of $120+.

Q2: Are reproductions common?
A: Yes. Since the 1990s, replica BSA axes have flooded the market. Check for modern steel alloys, machine-perfect stamps, or polypropylene handles—red flags for fakes.

Q3: Did all 1940s BSA axes come with Plumb branding?
A: No. BSA also contracted with Collins, Sager, and Council Tool. Only Plumb-branded versions carry the specific “Plumb” stamp and command higher collector interest.

Q4: Can I restore a rusty BSA hatchet without losing value?
A: Light cleaning with mineral oil and fine steel wool is acceptable. Never sandblast, regrind the edge, or replace the handle—these actions slash collectible value.

Q5: Where can I find historical documentation about my axe?
A: Start with the BSA National Scouting Museum or search digitized 1940s Scoutmaster Handbooks, which list official gear specifications.

Q6: Is it legal to sell a BSA-branded axe?
A: Yes. BSA trademarks on vintage tools are not enforced for private resale, especially for items over 70 years old.

Conclusion

The 1940s Boy Scouts of America BSA Plumb hatched axe is more than a tool—it’s a tangible piece of American youth history. Whether you’re a Scout alumnus, collector, or history enthusiast, knowing its true value empowers you to preserve, appreciate, or profit from it wisely. Remember: condition, originality, and documentation are your golden rules.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with fellow collectors on Facebook, Reddit (r/antiqueaxes or r/Scouting), or your local Scout troop. And if you’ve got a BSA hatchet story or photo—tag us! We’d love to feature your piece.

Stay outdoors, stay curious—and always honor the legacy of Scouting. 🪓🌲