roughing out bows with an ax/hatchet

[Grasshopper Mouse]

I grew up using hatchets and axes in my work.I thought i knew what a great ax or hatchet was,untill i got a Gransfors Bruks.

Dude, you're a farrier! I hope you're talking about some kind of work from before you became a farrier.
 

Guy

[Traxx]

Actually,
I have used a hatchet to remove excess hoof in extreme post founder cases,on draft horses.A hammer and chisel is also used in some cases.

I began using a hatchet and Ax,at about age 7.Didnt start trimming and shoeing horses untill about age 14.A hatchet and Ax,were used in a lot of jobs,on a remote ranch that wasnt on Grid untill i was much older.Grandad didnt  have a generator or a power wood splitter untill i was an adult and he didnt believe in using the fuel in a chainsaw,unless necessary

Much different time then.People would have a Conniption,nowdays seeing a 7 year old using a sharp ax to split wood.Probly have their kids taken by CPS er something.

[PAHunter]

Damn Gils that thing is right out of a horr movie!  Remind me not to piss you off.     I just use a small hand axe from Home Depot (12-14'' handle).  Works well but your forearms take a beating. 

[Bryce]

Does anyone use an adze? I'm guessing the only difference is turning the bow 90 degrees.

ive got a few in the works. a D and and Elbow. very useful tools.

[Gordon]

You don't need a bandsaw unless you plan on making laminated bows. The design of a good carpenter axe is hard to beat because it allows you grip the tool near the center of mass which, with practice, give you precise control over your cuts.

[dwardo]

I like to work as much as possible with an axe or hatchet. As has been mentioned the GB Swedish carving axe is very good. I personally prefer the mini hatchet, not every ones cup of  tea as its so small, I just like it. That said amazing tools can be made for a couple of ponds if you can find a nice old axe head and re haft it.






Go for a head about 600grams anything over a kilo tiers the arm unnecessarily.

Cant believe you chose your hatchet over that lovely granny carving axe. I used a friends up at the woods recently and it was an absolute joy to use. Soon as I can justify the cash one will be mine!

Like Dell though I am longing for a bandsaw. Simply due to tennis elbow. Drawknifing and scraping doesnt tend to upset it as much but swinging an axe is pure pain.

[Marks]

Both bows I've worked on I used wedges and sledge hammer to split into staves and then nothing but a draw knife from that point on. Takes a little time but it worked.

[DuBois]

Picked this up at the thrift store. It is a "PLUMB" brand. Figure I'll re haft it and smooth down the handle when it gets warmer out.

[Buckeye Guy]

Does anyone use an adze? I'm guessing the only difference is turning the bow 90 degrees.

Mine has become known as a bow adz .
There is a waiting list to get one made at the smithy who did it for me!
Guy

[dmenzies1950]

I've used lots of different hatchets, but I prefer roofing hatchets that I picked up at garage sales for a couple of bucks each.            Dale

[JW_Halverson]

Our local chainsaw shop sells Husquvarna axes and hatchets. quality tools. About 60 bucks for either.

I got a Husqvarna hatchet this summer.  It is much heavier than I anticipated, but pure quality thru and thru.  I won't be wearing this one out in my lifetime!