Tool Tuesday; Axe a question?

[johan_steele]

Axes and hatchets are a tool that all but the most effete gentleman knows, even those who do not know how to use an axe have an idea of what they look like and their purpose in life. Many a man lives by the axe; some use the axe to make a living, others to keep the cook fires burning. A man can build a house and barn with no more than an axe in a pinch and garner enough wood to survive a harsh winter as well. Should all else fail and life and limb are at risk the axe or hatchet is a rather effective weapon. Certainly, more than enough to provide a life time supply of being hacked into manageable pieces for the burial parties.

A useful tool and as many who have lived with little know; a tool is only as good as the man wielding it. Many an axe has been in use for generations across more than one continent. I have handled well used axes that predate the United States but doubtless will continue to be used until they wear out from use.

I have a hard time imagining a home without an axe or hatchet. I suppose one day when man no longer has the need to use wood to heat his home and food the axe will fall to the wayside. Though I admit I cannot imagine that time.

 

[John Winn]

While I'd certainly not claim to be an accomplished axman I did learn to use several types and such use and sharpening were actually part of my formal education (i.e. in fire management class). As one who did eventually fight wild fires I used axes (and chainsaws) and I also spent many a year heating with wood and a good ax (and hatchet) were necessary tools.

Very cool collection. And I love this series of threads. While not a guy who knows how to make or build things I've always admired those who do know such things and good tools. Whenever I buy a tool I always get the best one I can afford. I've got some saws and hammers and screw drivers I've had since the sixties and they're still perfectly functional. That you have ones from centuries ago just says a lot and is testimony to a time before planned obsolescence was an imaginable concept.

 

[johan_steele]

While I'd certainly not claim to be an accomplished axman I did learn to use several types and such use and sharpening were actually part of my formal education (i.e. in fire management class). As one who did eventually fight wild fires I used axes (and chainsaws) and I also spent many a year heating with wood and a good ax (and hatchet) were necessary tools.

Very cool collection. And I love this series of threads. While not a guy who knows how to make or build things I've always admired those who do know such things and good tools. Whenever I buy a tool I always get the best one I can afford. I've got some saws and hammers and screw drivers I've had since the sixties and they're still perfectly functional. That you have ones from centuries ago just says a lot and is testimony to a time before planned obsolescence was an imaginable concept.

I am what my Uncle refers to as an expert kindling maker. I tell people that I know how to use the tools just for God sake don't let me use them.

 

[shooter too]

I bet that you also have double-bit in your shed.

 

[johan_steele]

I bet that you also have double-bit in your shed.

I actually don't... my father has several which I might inherit in 30 odd years.

 

[shooter too]

I actually don't... my father has several which I might inherit in 30 odd years.

Will there be a future Tale of the Tape? I have my glass to the wall.

 

[johan_steele]

Will there be a future Tale of the Tape? I have my glass to the wall.

What we know of as measure tapes didn't exist yet. So no tale of a carpenters tape.

 

[shooter too]

no tale of a carpenters tape.

So... there's no one to square it???

 

[johan_steele]

So... there's no one to square it???

Already squared.