AXE SKILLS & BEST PRACTICE DAY

We will begin with a look at the characteristics and desirable traits of different axes and hatchets, 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.

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…