How to Make a Stone Axe Head
Living off the land requires the proper tools. The axe is a versatile tool that can be used for anything from chopping wood to butchering animals. It is not difficult to make and most of the materials can be readily found in nature. With the knowledge of axe making, one can gain the confidence necessary for living off the land and reaping the rewards of self-sufficiency.
Things You'll Need
- Flat hand-sized stone (for axe head)
- Stones (softer than axe head stone)
- Antler or hard wood
- Wood handle (approximately 3 feet long)
- Cord or twine
- Axe, knife or sharp object
Instructions
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1
Chip a cutting edge around the circumference of the axe head stone by using a softer stone to gradually scrape away at the edge from both sides.
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2
Wrap cord several times around the handle, 9 inches from the top end of wood handle. Make sure the cord is tightly wrapped. Knot it.
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3
Split the handle from the top end by driving another axe, blade or other sharp object into it. Split it no further than the tied cord (the cord's tension prevents the handle from splitting further).
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4
Place the axe head into the forked end so it is evenly balanced in the middle.
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5
Hold the axe head in place by wrapping some cord above the axe head several times. Make sure the cord is tightly wrapped then knot it.
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1
Tips & Warnings
To get a sharper axe head start with an already split stone (or split it yourself). The split makes it naturally sharper.
This rudimentary axe head is good for simple chopping but is not good for heavy-duty use.
The axe head can become dislodged, potentially leading to serious injury.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
