AXE: SKILLS & BEST PRACTICE DAY WORKSHOP
This day workshop covers all things axe related, and is a must if you are new to using an axe, or a great day to get you out of some common bad habits you may have acquired when using your axe.
We'll look at different types of axe available and their uses, and give advice on how to select the right axe for your needs. You will learn to sharpen your axe and how to maintain both the head and the helve.
AXE DAY OVERVIEW
We will begin with a look at the characteristics and desirable traits of different axes, and then learn safe techniques for splitting firewood from large rounds to small sticks, both with and without a block. You will be taught traditional methods for effective stacking and drying of firewood. and will learn how to safely fell a small tree. We will learn to safely process the tree into manageable sized logs for fuel, known as limbing and sectioning, two distinctly different techniques, both with their own particular risks and safety tips to address these.
In the afternoon session you will take a piece of wood you have harvested and begin an axe carving project, learning how to make a traditional Scandinavian style cup or Kuska.
You will learn about the properties of different woods that you will encounter, and which to use for durability, aesthetics, and other properties, The final part of the day will be spent making a hand crafted project to take home, made from the green wood you have sustainable harvested and processed yourself.
Taught in the relaxed environment of an expedition-style camp with tea and coffee on hand throughout the day, you can ask plenty of questions, receive tailored tips and guidance.
COURSE CONTENT
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Choosing an Axe, (axe types and their uses)
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Felling, limbing, sectioning and processing fire wood.
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Splitting with an Axe with and without a block
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Axe carving project
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Selecting wood
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Axe maintenance and handle replacement
Conducted from an expedition-style teaching environment in a beautiful mixed broadleaf and coniferous woodland with an eco-friendly composting toilet. The camp fire is under cover, and acts as a communal area with a hot kettle constantly on the fire, coffee, tea, biscuit tin and squash available all day.
