180 



FELLING AND CONVERSION OF TIMBER. 



log he is trimming. Another shape (Fig. 78) is in use in 

 the Black Forest, being more convenient on rocky and difficult 

 ground than the former. 



[Trimming-axes in India generally are shaped symmetrically , 

 but much larger and heavier than ordinary axes, weighing up 

 to 8 pounds and more. The workman stands on the top of 

 the log and trims-off side-pieces by swinging the axe vertically 

 and merely allowing its own weight to act. The handles for 



Fig. 80. 



Trimming-axes. 



Fig. 81. 



these trimming-axes are 3j to 4J feet long so as to give 

 sufficient momentum. Tr.] 



(c) The Billhook. Billhooks may be of various shapes ; 

 they are used chiefly for cutting coppice or fascines, and in 

 lopping branches from trees. Fig. 82 shows the common 

 German billhook, the backward turn of the blade at its top 

 being useful in pulling out the ends of withes while tying 

 faggots. The English fascine-knife (Fig. 83) is 21 inches long 

 and very serviceable in cutting fascines. Fig. 84 represents 

 a- very serviceable billhook ; it is half an inch thick at the 

 back, and has a cutting edge at a for cutting through branches 

 placed on a piece of wood, as well as its ordinary cutting edge b. 





