I was hoping that you could provide some comments on this early hatchet in my collection, images are attached, for my own edification. I purchased it in Southern Indiana by Vincennes where the 8th Regiment was involved during the American Revolution. But I am not sure whether it is French style.
On the one side of the hatchet, there appears to be blacksmith initials and the number “4”. On the other side, are more marks, not sure whether proof marks, rack numbers, “8” with a “P” or “F”? The axe appears to be 18th century, hand forged. Not sure whether I also see a faint broad arrow mark on the side with the “8”.
I added the handle.
I am wondering whether this is an old 8th regiment axe given its found location.
The head is slightly under 7 inches long.
![](https://i.ibb.co/VTvPW1C/Trade-Hatchet-7.jpg)
![](https://i.ibb.co/524TQMV/Trade-Hatchet-6.jpg)
![](https://i.ibb.co/1mFhDCv/Trade-Hatchet-5.jpg)
face with medical mask smileys![](https://i.ibb.co/wsb7mMW/Trade-Hatchet.jpg)