Using An Axe

Sharpening an Axe

An axe with a blunt edge bcomes no more than an inefficient hammer, and indeed a great deal more dangerous as you struggle to use it. Always keep your axe sharp. For large 'burrs' a file is probably your best bet. Make sure you use the file correctly though, it will only work in one direction, it works when pushed, not pulled.

To sharpen your axe prop the axehead between a log and a peg driven into the ground. Always try to sharpen inwards from the cutting edge (to avoid producing any burrs). First use a file or rough stone to remove any burrs and rucks. Then finish with a smoother stone, using a circular motion. Don't drag the stone off the cutting edge, push on to the blade.

Turn the axe over and repeat the process, circling in the opposite direction.

Using an Axe

Most people with have a 'prime' hand and a natural swing. Always use the axe in a way that is comfortable to you, swinging in an arc that feels natural. Make sure you have a firm grip, and always swing AWAY from your body, hands, and legs. Ensure that if you miss your intended target and follow through, the axe will not strike you or anyone else. Never throw an axe on the ground, always sheath it or bury it in a log.

Chopping Areas

When chopping wood at camp, you will need to create a specific chopping area. Choose a site that is fairly close to the fire and clear of any obstructions (not only on the ground. Ensure there are no overhead obstructions that could catch your axe as you swing). Make a circle that is at least 2m (6 ft) in radius (or at least 3 axe lengths). Rope this area off and ensure it is clearly marked. Make sure that everyone knows where the chopping area is. No loose clothing should be taken into the area, and no one should enter the area without strong shoes or boots (and of course checking it is safe to enter).

Tree Felling

Before you do anything else, check overhead for dead branches which may fall and injure you, and for things like hornets nests. Clear the area around the tree of any undergrowth or branches that could deflect your blows. If the tree has a particularly large spread of roots or boles around the base you may want to construct a platform so that you can reach a thinner part of the trunk and save time and effort. Obviously if you do this make sure the platform is stable and you have a clear route of escape (in case something goes wrong!).

Cut from both sides of the tree. First you chop a notch out at an angle of about 45 degrees and then another on the opposite side at a lower level, on the side which you want the tree to fall.

Do not cut through more than half the tree before starting the other notch.

You must work at a height that is comfortable for you. Try to cut downwards at 45 degrees (you may need a horizontal cut occasionally to clear debris etc).

A steady rhythm of blows will cut much more efficiently than fewer big blows. If you put too much effort behind the axe your aim will suffer, you will tire and then every swing becomes more dangerous. Always let the weight of the axe do the work.

Alternating the angle of the stroke will prevent the axe from jamming. Too steep an angle will cause the axe to glance off, end-on will make the axe jam (or simply be inefficient). Try to aim for a 45 degree angle.

Splitting Logs

For a large log, as before, stand behind the log with your feet well apart. Swing down the cut the side away from you. Do not chop downwards. If you wish to split a smaller log, lay it against another log. Do not put your foot on it. There is an alternative to this though, hold the smaller log against the cutting edge and bring them both down together on to a larger log.

If in doubt, or if you have any difficulty, split larger logs with a wedge and a rock. Do not hold the wood upright in your hand and try to split with an axe.

Removing Branches

When chopping branches from a large log, always stand on the side away from the axe. Always cut branches from the outside of the fork, not the inside.

Carrying an Axe

When carrying an axe, you should never run. Carry the head of the axe in your hand, with the bit facing in front of you, and the heel of the handle nestled in your armpit. Therefore giving you control of the axe, and should you fall forward, the bit will go into the ground rather than into your leg. Whenever using an axe, always use caution and commonsense.