Recommendation? Axe-ucation

Polynikes01

Polynikes01

Joined
Dec 31, 2016
Messages
505
Hey all,
I’ve been interested in knives my entire life, but recently have been finding myself increasingly interested in axes and hatchets and such. Where (other than here of coarse) would be a good place to start my education into axes and axemanship?
I have basically zero experience as a user save for my time when I was younger just playing around with hatchets, and making kindling. We didn’t have a fireplace or wood stove when I was younger, I’m only 25 but I have a son who I would like to be able to teach about things like this.
In short, I’d basically say I need to start from ground zero, types of axes and their purpose, techniques, materials, etc.
I appreciate any and all advice,
Thanks in advanced fellas.
David
 
What knowledge I have is based on experience from using various axes and buying what catches my eye (and what my wallet will allow) at flea markets and garage sales. The best way to learn for me has always been hands on. There is a tremendous amount of information on sites such as this one with excellent advice and varying opinions but sometimes there is just no substitute for trying it yourself.
There are some basics you can read up on on using/restoring an axe. Someone other then myself probably has access to good resources either online or hard copies you could purchase. However my humble opinion is to find a cheap axe, sharpen it with whatever you have available (file, sharpening stone, grinder etc.) and find something to swing it at. You'll learn pretty quickly what works and what doesn't. I know I had to screw up a few edges and overwork myself before I learned to sharpen and swing properly!
Hopefully that's helpful.
 
There happens to be a publicity hound on YouTube, that goes by the name Wranglerstar, who gives axemanship advice that (on this forum) 'goes over like a lead balloon'. On the other hand there is a very well-regarded series of ax related literature and videos from U S Forest Service, also on YouTube, called 'An Axe to Grind'. It's well worth the effort to devote some time 'rubber-necking' those.
 
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300Six said:
there are a well-regarded series of ax related literature and videos from U S Forest Service, also on YouTube, called 'An Axe to Grind'. It's well worth the effort to devote some time rubber-necking those.
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I agree and consider these USFS manuals and companion videos to be my goto for questions and review.
There are many equally knowledgeable and helpful manuals and videos available. Starting with what the USFS provides, will launch you into a vast amount of information that will help guide you thru what works best for you and keeping in why you were bit by the bug. :thumbsup::D

cityofthesouth said:
I'd say you're in the right place. There are several old videos in circulation that are very helpful - most posted in these forums at one point or another.
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Exactly:thumbsup::cool:
 
My father in law had a tree trimming business and made good money but it was very weather dependant and hard to stay healthy as he aged.Sure he is just trying to get everything he can while he can,don't watch it enough to know.Likes xp huskys so he knows what hims doing.
 
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