Originally posted by fenlander:

Bronze pickaxe does more damage per swing and has more durability. I took both the Antler and Bronze pickaxe out with me when going to copper and tin.

I now have a iron pickaxe and it hits much harder and lasts longer. The bronze and Antler pickaxes are now retired in my old equipment box, just in case I die or loose the iron one.

I get the extra durability / effeciency, but I find the utility of repair much better, til I need more the next tier for silver and such.