Wildland Hand Tools
Tools We Carry
Shovel
Shovels are good for digging, scraping, tamping, and throwing dirt. They can also be used to de-limb lower branches on trees to reduce ladder fuels.
Sharpening
Sharpen the blade of a shovel starting 1.5 in. (38 mm) from the heel on each side of the blade until a subtle point is formed at the tip of the blade. Do the same number of strokes — and with the same amount of pressure — with a 12-in. flat bastard file on each side so that the shovel point does not drift from the center line.
See this video for a shovel sharpening demonstration: https://youtu.be/3TrehiITIYM?t=209
Pulaski
McLeod/Wilson
Rogue Hoe
Super P
Combi Tool
Brush Axe
Sharpening Tools
Each hand tool must be kept sharpened to make cutting and grubbing more efficient. The sharpened edge and technique is different on each tool. The department has several aluminum sharpening guides which provide correct edge angles for a number of the tools. Please use these guides, but know they are difficult to come by so don't lose them or loan them out (we'll never see them again).
PPE While Sharpening
The following PPE must be worn while sharpening in the field or at the station:
- Leather wildland gloves
- Safety glasses
- Long sleeve shirt or jacket
Sharpening Tools
The most important tool you need is a 12 inch mill bastard file. Consider using the vice on the workbench if sharpening at the station.
Sharpening Technique
This video covers sharpening of a shovel, Pulaski, and McLeod.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TrehiITIYM
Jump to particular tools:
- Pulaski: https://youtu.be/3TrehiITIYM?t=13
- Shovel: https://youtu.be/3TrehiITIYM?t=209
- McLeod: https://youtu.be/3TrehiITIYM?t=305
