Working With Wood Tools

In this instructable I have created some videos to show you:

• proper handling
• maintenance and
• use of
  1. an ax
  2. a hatchet
  3. a bow saw and
  4. a pocket knife.

Supplies

• ax
• hatchet
• bow saw
• pocket knife
• wet stone
• woodt

Step 1: Carrying and Passing

Carrying

Ax and Hatchet

Hold the head or the handle just below the head with the blade facing away from you. Use a sheath if you have one.

Bow saw

Hold the handle or just below with the blade facing away from you. Use sheath if you have one.

Pocket knife

If it closes carry it closed or sheathed.

*Never run with a tool

Passing

Ax and Hatchet
Pass the handle first with the blade facing away from both parties. Wait till the person has a good grasp on it, look the other person in the eye. The person receiving then says "Thank you" to indicate that they have a secure grip and are ready. You can then let go.

Bow saw

Pass the handle first with the blade facing away from both parties. Wait till the person has a good grasp on it, look the other person in the eye. The person receiving then says "Thank you" to indicate that they have a secure grip and are ready. You can then let go.

Pocket knife

If it closes pass it closed or sheathed. Is it does not close, hold the blade with the sharp end away from your hand. Hand the handle first to the receiving person. Wait till the person has a good grasp on it, look the other person in the eye. The person receiving then says "Thank you" to indicate that they have a secure grip and are ready. You can then let go. *Always use eye contact and a "thank you" to indicated a successful pass. When people assume that is when accidents happen.

Step 2: Whittling

Whittling is a basic use of a pocket knife.

You are basically using the knife to shave bits of the stick to make a point. This could be used a steak, a weapon for hunting or fishing in a survival situation, or hopefully for roasting marshmallows.

Always whittle away from yourself. And always in a "Safety Circle". To create a safety circle extend your hand with the knife in a complete circle around you (as seen in the video) this is the length our blade will go it you were to slip. No one should be in this circle. It is your job to make sure others are aware of your safety circle.

Step 3: Using the Bow Saw, Ax, and Hatchet

These video's show proper technique with a Bow Saw, and Ax, and a Hatchet.

When using them, like a pocket knife it is important to have a safety circle. With these tools it is better to set up an "Ax yard" using bright yellow rope or rope with colored flags (or bandana's) on it, to designate the working area that no one should go in.

With all these tools work smarter not harder. Let the teeth of the saw do its job, let the momentum of the ax head split the wood. And for safety and easy of use proper form is paramount.

Step 4: Sharpening

Always keep your equipment sharp and in good working order.

It is important when you take out tools to inspect them before use.

Never use tool that is dull, the head or blade is loose, or is in disrepair. This can be very unsafe.