WOODWORKERS' TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT 73 



The handles for single-bitted axes are either curved or straight, 

 tht choice being largely one of individual preference. Handles 

 are preferably of second-growth hickory, but if made by the 

 camp blacksmith they are often of hard maple. In the eastern 

 part of the United States loggers 

 generally choose a 36-inch handle, 

 while on the Pacific Coast where 

 large timber is felled, the lengths 

 range between 38 and 40 inches 

 for the average size timber, up , . , 



. , p , . ; Ml «- Double-bitted A:xe. 



to 44 inches for the massive red- ((// ) ^ singie-bufed asc. 



woods. Handles for double-bitted - ^J^ 4^ d-BroadA^e! 



axes are straight in order that 



either bit may be used. They 



are made in the same lengths as fig. 12."— Characteristic Types of 



those for single-bitted axes. Ax Heads. 



Single-bitted ax heads cost from 60 to 75 cents each; double- 

 bitted ax heads from 80 cents to $1. 



A straight-grained ax handle of the best quality costs from 

 20 to 25 cents; a turned handle, from 7 to 10 cents. 



Broadax. — The broadax is used for hewing timbers and cross- 

 ties, and performing like work. The more common form has 

 a reversible bit, ii§ or 12 inches long, a heavy square poll and 

 a flat inner face. It may be used either right-handed or left- 

 handed. The outer side has a slightly concave face and a cut- 

 ting bevel f of an inch wide on the bit. The usual weight of 

 the head is 6 or 7 pounds. Handles are preferably of second- 

 growth hickory and are from 26 to 36 inches long with a slight 

 upward curve immediately behind the eye which enables the 

 workman to assume a more upright position and still retain a 

 correct cutting angle for the blade. 



Turpentine Ax. — A special form of ax is used in southern pine 

 forests for cutting the ''boxes" or receptacles in the bases of the 

 trees in which the crude turpentine is collected. 



It is made in two patterns, namely, the square poll and the 

 round poll, the type used being a matter of personal choice. The 

 chief feature of a turpentine ax is a long, narrow bit which 



