The french style axes were actually used in the US and on the navy ships of the day.

I just finished (I am never really finished as I always fiddle with stuff)my hawk bluing project. It turned out really well for what a quick and dirty job I did.
I would recommend a CS hawk if you can buy ti from a store where you can inspect it first so you get a good one even if it costs more than over the net.

Here is how it turned out.



I could have done more polishing and fiishing but for a simple hawk that is going to get beat up this is fine. It really cleaned up nicely.