Axe

General information

A general purpose or agricultural tool, for beneficiary distributions.

Forged iron tool, strong and durable.

Local customs and basic implements vary worldwide, resulting in different-shaped axe heads. Check the local and cultural appropriateness of the tool being supplied. The way in which tools are attached to the handle also varies (e.g., sunken eye, raised eye, spike).

Generally, cast iron tools are more fragile than forged. Low-quality tools are abundant on the market. Test several samples to their breaking point, prior to purchasing.

The terms "cast" and "forged" refer to the manufacturing process used to form the metal part of the tool.

• Casting involves turning metal into its molten liquid state, which is then poured into a mould to form the axe head.

• Forging involves pounding or compressing the metal, in its solid form (cold or hot red), into the desired shape; thereafter, a number of machining steps are necessary to complete the production.

Handles are often purchased separately from wood suppliers, or can be made locally by the beneficiaries. For purchases, specify the required minimum length, diameter and type of wood.

Some specifications may vary with national standards and local market conditions. For locally sourced items, check the relevant national standards or specifications. Any important variation from the EIC standard needs to be approved by a specialist.

Specifications

AXE

Felling axe head, without handle.

Head with a round eye, 36mm to 40mm, for insertion of the handle.

Hot-forged carbon steel, hardened and tempered; normalizing heat treatment on eye side.

If supplied with handle:

Smooth surface: no chips, rough surface, holes or knots. Dry, strong flexible wood. Handle adjusted to head in order to protrude through the other side of the head, for blockading in place with a metal wedge.