Borrow Small axe

To use an axe, you generally aim to chop or split wood, trim branches, or perform other tasks requiring a sharp, heavy blade and a handle for leverage.

How to Use a Hatchet:

1. Safety First:

Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves. Ensure your surroundings are clear of obstructions and people.

2. Grip:

Hold the hatchet firmly with both hands, one hand near the head for control and the other at the end of the handle for power, or with one hand if performing lighter tasks like trimming. 

3. Stance:

Stand with a stable stance, feet shoulder-width apart, and position the material to be cut on a stable surface or block. 

4. Chopping/Splitting:

Chopping: For cutting through smaller branches or logs, swing the hatchet in a controlled arc, aiming for the desired cutting point with the blade. 

Splitting: For splitting wood, place the hatchet blade on the top of the log and bring it down with force, using the weight of the head and the swing to split the wood along its grain. 

5. Specific Applications:

Kindling: Use the hatchet to split larger pieces of wood into smaller, more manageable kindling for fires. 

Pruning/Trimming: The hatchet can be used to prune smaller branches from trees or trim shrubs. 

Camping/Outdoor Tasks: It's a versatile tool for various outdoor activities, including preparing firewood for a campfire. 

6. Maintenance:

Keep the blade sharp and clean, and inspect the handle for any damage before and after use.