WOODWORKERS' TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT 
83 
are preferably made of second-growth hickory, but camp black- 
smiths often use hard maple for them. In the eastern part of 
the United States loggers generally prefer a 36-inch handle, 
while on the Pacific Coast handle lengths range l)etween 38 and 
40 inches for average-sized timber and up to 44 inches for redwoods. 
Handles for double-bitted axes are straight in order that either 
bit may be used. They are made in the same lengths as those 
for single-bitted axes. 
Broadax. — The broad ax is used for hewing timbers, cross- 
ties, and work of a similar character. The more common form has 
a reversible bit, 11^ 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-inch wide on the bit. 
The usual weight of the head is 6 
or 7 pounds. Handles are from 
26 to 36 inches long with a slight 
upward curve immediately behind 
the eye which enables the work- 
man to assume a more upright 
position and still maintain a cor- 
rect 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. A 
turpentine ax has a long, narrow bit so that a deep, narrow 
incision maj' be made. The usual dimensions are: length, 
11^ or 12 inches; width of blade, 3^ inches. The average weight 
is 5^ or 6 pounds. Straight hickory handles 36 inches in length 
are considered best. 
SAWS 
Saws are made in a variety of lengths and widths of blade, 
and in numerous shapes and patterns of teeth to meet special 
requirements and to conform to the preferences of certain lo- 
calities. 
Fig. 
O- Double-bitted Axe. 
b -Single-bitted Axe. 
c —Turpentine Axe. 
d- Broad Axe. 
7. — Characteristic Types of 
Ax Heads. 
