New And Needing Some iIformationalHhelp

[digitalurbancamo]

Hey guys/girls,

I am new to this section of the forum. With that in mind I would just like to start off by saying hello to all. Although I have been reading the threads on BF for quite some time I was always in the knife section. This is mostly because I have never really been that interested in axes and hatches. My disinterest was manly because I really never used them. This is probably because I was taught from a young age how to use large and small knives and how to cut wood with them properly. Anyways, as of late I have found that my lack of knowledge for axes and hatchets has most likely causing me to work harder on the tasks around my house via cutting, splitting fire wood. Weather that is actually true can be discussed in a different thread I guess. My real reason for making a thread is because I would like to start learning the basics of axes and hatches. Although I have looked around a bit I am finding it hard to find the information I would like to learn so I thought it would be wise to jump in this section and see if anybody here would offer some help,

Specifically I would like to know what the different grinds on axes and hatches are used for. What are the best handle materials to look for when buying. And also what kind of splitting hatchet would be best for a noob like myself who wants to buy their first good hatchet but doesn't want to brake the bank. I would like something like the spyderco of the hatchet world IE the brand rather then the gerber (vary low quality but cheap) or the CRK (great quality but vary expensive).

Anyways I would lover to hear what you great people have to say and I welcome any suggestions. If you happen to know where I can find the information but don't want to actually comment or type it out I would love your links to said info. Thanks for any information and suggestions in advance.

Regards.

 

[Repliqwtl]

Hi!

I'm pretty new to the Axe forum as well, but you are definitely in the right place! I suggest taking the time to scrollback through some of the threads on the board (especially longer ones), as these tend to devolve regularly into truly fascinating discussions of exactly the points you are asking! There are several threads on the front page right now discussing grinds,l in fact. And handle material, and it's specifications, are often discussed as well! Indeed, there is a discussion of handles for some Plumb hatchets going on right now.

The most common handle material is definitely Hickory. It is the preferred material for all high quality axe manufacturers, and most of the members here who make their own. However, especially for a hatchet, many other hardwoods would probably be suitable if you wanted to make one yourself. Otherwise, many forum members seem to use House Handles to order them.

For some truly great starting off information, definitely check out the US Forest Service Axe Manual "An Axe to Grind". It has great info on sharpening, re-hanging, and using axes, as well as some history.

As for less expensive brands, lots of people consider Council Tools a good contemporary American axe maker with reasonable prices and product. I've also looked at Condor in the past, as their prices are very reasonable and their product is also said to be of a pretty good quality these days.

Anyway, likes said, I'm new here. I'm sure more people will be along to lend a hand, but I would definitely recommend a good survey of what's already on here. This forum is a true treasure trove of knowledge!

Cheers,

Gene

 

[Coloradoman24]

An axe to grind has and says it all and it's free from the usfs and council has good hatches that are cheap I use council tools for work and play and recommend them

 

[Square_peg]

We need a 'Best of the Axe Forum' thread stickied to the top of this forum and filled with links to some of the more important threads. It would really help out the newcomers. Such a thread should be locked to cut chit-chat and updated only by the forum moderators.

 

[Murphnuge]

I'm following this one. Mainly because I'm in the same boat. I've always worked with knives, now I've a Council tools Hudson Bay enroute. I need some schooling!