How to Use an Axe or Hatchet on Wood

Use an axe or hatchet to accomplish specific wood working tasks.

An axe or hatchet proves to be an invaluable tool in many outdoor situations -- from felling a tree to preparing the wood for use in construction or for a fire. A hatchet is shorter in length than an axe and has a smaller wedge-shaped cutting head. Both an axe and hatchet have their strengths and should be used accordingly.

Things You'll Need

• Metal file
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Axe
• Hatchet
• Wood

Instructions

1. Position the head of an axe or hatchet against a stable object such as a tree limb or log. Place a stake or rock alongside the head to support the axe or hatchet during sharpening. Use a file to sharpen the edge. Move the file back and forth across the cutting edge to create a sharp point.

2. Put on gloves to protect your hands while sharpening the cutting edge of the axe or hatchet. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and in a comfortable position in which you feel in control.

3. Use an axe to fell a tree or cut larger limbs into smaller pieces. Swing the head of the axe to contact the wood with the cutting edge. Position the head at a 45-degree angle to cut more easily into the wood.

4. Use a hatchet to remove small limbs from a tree. Cut the limb from the bottom and not from the top. Avoid cutting into the V shape of the limb to avoid potentially splitting the limb and wood.

5. Split logs into manageable firewood pieces with a hatchet or axe. Place a small log on a larger log or prop it against a larger log. Swing the hatchet or axe head down into the end of the smaller log to split.

References

• Simple Survival: Axe Usage
• Boy's Life: How to Sharpen an Axe or Hatchet