Axes for building log cabins??

M

master blaster

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Dec 10, 2008
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Hi folks,
I'm looking for advice on some good axes to build log cabins. I have 2 small trappers cabins to rebuild on my trapline and would like to build them the same way my grandfather did when he ran the trapline. The only axes i have looked at so far are the Gransfors axes. I know i would need a feller axe and a broad axe and possibly a buck saw.. Any help or suggestions, advice are welcome.:D
 
a broad axe from gransfor is pretty expensive - maybe more than you want to spend. i'd recommend looking on E bay - most of them go for upwards of a hundred bucks, some more. but occasionally you can snag one in good condition for less than fifty.

you might want to check out http://www.amazon.com/Axe-Wielders-Handbook-Michael-Beaudry/dp/0882907115 - he covers a very basic intro to building a cabin with half-dovetail joints - i'm sure there are better books that go into more detail

besides a felling axe, broad axe, and buck saw you are probably going to need a chisel too and a square of course
 
I don't see the need for a broad axe unless you are going to square up your logs. If you are, then consider adding an adze too.

If you want to see some good examples of log-notching and cabin building, the Foxfire series of books (volume 1) has some good examples of it, done by the local old-timers the old time way.

Book
 
Blue Sky said:
I don't see the need for a broad axe unless you are going to square up your logs. If you are, then consider adding an adze too.

If you want to see some good examples of log-notching and cabin building, the Foxfire series of books (volume 1) has some good examples of it, done by the local old-timers the old time way.

Book
Click to expand...

Blue Sky is right, no need for fancy stuff for round logs, but if you want to make square logs, you will need a broad axe and an adze and a froe. Actually, I don't know a thing about building. I just like to play with my tools. For real advice, see the Forest Service manual, "An Ax to Grind." I found a link to it from somebody on this site. It has 30-some pages of more solid historical and and how-to info than the rest of us could come up with in this millenium. Thanks to whoever posted that link. I am forever in your debt. And again, Blue Sky's advice about Foxfire books is as solid as the Rock of Gibraltar.
 
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