Batoning query.

[FortyTwoBlades]

I can't wait to try out a Baryonyx btw! Would you consider multiple handle choices when you start to sell them?

Thanks for the interest! The production version will have a black polypropylene handle like on the Bush Knife and the Beaver Tail machete (which it will be replacing.) Did you mean different handle shapes or different handle materials? In either regard it will depend on how well the design does for Condor. I decided on the polypropylene handle because of the durability, comfort, and consistency in production that it provides. It's flared in thickness as well as in profile so it gives you a nice secure grip and you can squeeze two hands on it if you need a little extra "oomph" when doing things like splitting or felling.

 

[scouter27]

Link me? Haha.

http://hawks.equinoxcoronado.com

 

[davek14]

Serious pounding on (or with) the pole of an axe is not recommended as that part of the tool is usually left dead soft. The impact can deform the eye, as noted, or mushroom the pole, even cause (if pounding metal) pieces of steel to fly off to uncertain destinations (eyes).

Pounding on the haft of an axe is not recommended as that will damage the haft.

Pounding on a knife, especially a folding knife such as a multitool, with another metal tool is not recommended as it will damage the poundee.

An axe works as a wedge, just not as well as a dedicated wedge. Some axes are more suitable. Some, like the GB SFA, are less suitable. Hawks are typically at the "less" end. Blade profile. O--

Splitting wood with a blade works. See "froe." It's all a matter of degree and judgment, not black and white. It can even be done, very slowly and carefully, with a folding knife.

"Use the best tool"? Sure, if you have it. But it may come to "Use the better tool" or "Use what you have." Good to know about making tools on the spot (wood wedges).

If you don't have the "best tool" (hydraulic wood splitter, say), you do what you have to do. It's nice to know how as there are better and worse ways to use any tool.

You may elect not to carry the best tool (hydraulic wood splitter, say) on grounds of availability, weight, or personal preference. It's a free country. People are free to be snarky, for example, when discussing this topic.

You betcha, it's like abusing a knife at work. It's clearly not the tool for the job, but it's the only (very versatile) tool you carry in your pocket.

I don't camp so much anymore, I usually baton to process all but the the larger wood for our fireplace, just 'cause it's fun. I use old monster butcher knives from yard sales. It's surprising how well even a kitchen knife holds up.

 

[unit]

I realized a few days ago that I baton a folder all the time and didn't realize it.

In my job we frequently make our own tools to do jobs for which tools do not exist. Anyway...long story short I took an old cheap folder a few years back and modified it so that we can use it to cut 1/8 inch thick strips of lead in very tight spaces. We tap the spine with a small hammer and "cut" the lead in a manner that can only be described as identical to batoning. The pivot is loose and the lock never was reliable in the first place...but it is the right tool for the job because it is the *only* tool for the job.

I'd not suggest anyone else do this with a knife they like because it's hardly suitable for any other task now other than scraping.