Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent example of a service used British Mountain Troops climbing ice axe, also used by Commandos during WWII. The axe is in wonderful condition and is broad arrow marked with a 1944 date. The manufacturer information is still present on the pick side though it is partially faded. The maker is Cornelius Whithouse and Sons Cannock England. It measures 37 1/4″ in overall length, with a 3 1/4″ spike on the bottom, and the length of the axe head is 12 7/8″.
Cornelius Whitehouse & Sons were edge tool manufacturers with works at Bridgtown, Cannock. The company was founded in 1869 and at its height employed over 300 workers. It was famous for its hedgehog logo. After their closure in 1964, the buildings became increasingly derelict until they were demolished in 2016 to make way for a new housing development at Lock Side and Elliot Drive.
The axe is in wonderful condition and is presented without any extensive damage aside from paint loss on the tool ends. The long handle still has a carry strap with a function button snap.