TM 9-243
TYPES AND USES
AXES
CRASH AX
Axes are cutting tools used for the cutting down of trees
and for the chopping and splitting of wood. They may be
either single or double-edged. Single-bit, double-bit,
and crash axes are the most common types. Sizes of
axes vary depending upon their design and purpose.
SINGLE-BIT AX
The single-bit ax is used to cut down or prune trees. It
can also be used to cut or trim logs and heavy brush, or
to split and cut wood. This type ax has a steel head
attached by wedges to a long, slightly curved handle.
The head has a flat face at one end. At the other end is
the cutting edge or “bit.”
DOUBLE-BIT AX
The double-bit ax is used for the chopping down and the
lopping and topping of trees. The double-bit ax has a
wedge-type head with two cutting edges.
The crash ax, or fireman’s ax, is used by emergency
personnel to gain quick access to a given area. This ax
has a steel head with a cutting blade or bit at one end,
and a spike-like extension at the other.
HATCHETS
HALF-HATCHET
The half-hatchet, commonly called a hatchet, has a
steel head fastened by wedges to a short wooden
handle. The head always has a straight front edge and a
round rear shoulder. The other end of the head may vary
in shape depending on the design and use.
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