A Matter of the Head
Different areas of application require suitable forestry tools. Forestry tools for limbing, felling, cultivation, splitting wood or for universal use in forest and landscape management differ in the shape of their head, the grind and the condition of the handle. In addition, the correct care of the tool plays a decisive role. Only sharp, rust-free cutting edges and securely fastened handles guarantee safe and efficient work.
Axes for felling, limbing and maintenance
The classic axe shape, characterised by its long, rounded cutting edge with a flat head, is best suited for felling, limbing and cultivation. The so-called forestry axes are specially designed to cut across the grain of the wood to facilitate these tasks. There are also special tools such as sickles, whips and bark peelers for cultivation.
Pic. OCHSENKOPF ILTIS axe OX 10 H-1207, especially for limbing, felling and cultivation.
Axes for universal use
Universal gold forestry axes are all-round talents: Anyone who needs to use the splitting block more often in addition to felling and limbing is well advised to use this axe shape. The versatility saves changing the tool for smaller tasks, but does not replace a head shape specially optimised for the area of application. Here, the number of cycles makes the difference. Anyone who splits, fells or delimbs permanently and frequently should go for the special axe.
Pic. OCHSENKOPF gold forestry axe OX 20 H-1608, for universal use.
Hammers, axes and wedges for splitting wood
Splitting wood is a feat of strength. Splitting tools such as splitting axes, splitting hammers and wedges are designed to support and, above all, protect the user. The special axe and hammer heads have a particularly wide blade, perfect for splitting wood. Splitting hammers are additionally equipped with a turning nose and extra large striking surface on the back for moving wood and driving in wedges.
Pic. OCHSENKOPF Professional wooden splitting hammer BIG OX OX 365 H-3009, for splitting.
OCHSENKOPF Axes and SPlitting Hammers
ILTIS-Axt, Universal-GOLD-Forestry Axe and Splitting Hammer BIG OX
TIPS FOR SHARPENING THE BLADES
1. Regular Maintenance
Dull cutting edges can be made sharp again by resharpening. A sharpening stone helps to give the axe a fine edge again or to remove scratches. After use, cleaning and care are essential to prolong the life of the blades.2. Following the Shape
When grinding, make sure to always maintain the original shape of the cutting edge. The coarse side of the whetstone is passed over the edge in circular movements. The final sharpening is achieved with the finely grained side of the stone.3. Choose the Abrasive
In addition to the sanding technique, the abrasive is decisive for the result. Different results can be achieved with oil or water. The abrasive should be spread over the entire axe head with a soft cloth and then be absorbed.
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