TM 9-243
USING THE SINGLE-BIT AX
WARNING
ALWAYS WEAR SUITABLE EYE
PROTECTION.
1
First clear the work area of material that might
deflect the ax blade. The user’s body weight should
be evenly distributed, with knees set, but not tense.
The feet should be spread at a comfortable distance
to retain balance, while the body should be relaxed
and free to swing and bend at the waist.
2
To use the ax, grasp the ax handle with both hands
close together near the end of the handle, with the
right or leading hand closer to the ax head. The left
foot should be closer to the work.
NOTE
Reverse the position of the hands, feet
and shoulder if left-handed.
3
To start the swing, bring the ax back over the right
shoulder, bending the elbow as the right hand slides
up the handle toward the ax head.
4
On the downswing, let the right hand slide down the
handle, toward the left hand.
5
At the end of the downswing, the right hand will be
beside the left hand at the end of the handle.
45-4
