I think this says CAST STEEL and WAR. However, I cannot make out the maker. Any ideas on the maker and the history? Images attached. 

Welcome aboard Stephan, glad to have you. If you'll put your general location in the header you might be surprised how many members live within visiting distance.

You're probably going to need better photos to learn much here. Try chalking the surface, rub it with chalk, flour, charcoal, etc. and wipe the surface off. This will bring out details in the surface like stamped lettering. Oblique lighting also brings out surface details. Direct the light along the surface from ONE side, having shadows lay right to left or vis versa makes a BID difference. Take a look at a full moon through binoculars for a good example of the difference.

The flash on your camera is NOT good lighting for taking pics of shiny objects. 

Looks like a terrific find, I'll be watching to see what you find out.

Frosty The Lucky.

Thanks for the tip! Maybe this will help.

 

Thanks, that was the picture I need.  Cool axe with a cool history.  What you need to know I said here http://www.yesteryearstools.com/Yesteryears Tools/Bradley Axe Co..html

 

Lou

Hi Stephen, if you still havent had much luck on this, I would urge you to check out Axe Junkies on Facebook. 30,000 members that are geared more towards the vintage axe restoration and collection ball game. Lots of knowledge on there as well.