A sharpened axe allows you to work faster, more efficiently, and with more precision and less effort. Knowing how to sharpen an axe is an important skill to master if you frequently use it in your daily tasks.
On the other hand, you don’t want the edge of your axe to be so sharp that you can cut the hairs on your arm. If you are using your axe to cut into dirt-encrusted wood, you simply need it to have a clean, work-like edge.
This article will highlight the best way to sharpen your axe.
How sharp should an axe be?
As previously mentioned, you don’t want your axe to be razor-sharp. This is because axes that are shaped to the point that they are razor-sharp tend to be more prone to chipping. Even more so than a standard edge.
The axe should simply be sharp enough to cut through wood fibers.
Steps in sharpening an axe
You can use a file to sharpen the edge of your axe. This process will yield acceptable results and leave you with a serviceable edge. You will need the following tools to sharpen your axe:
Flat work surface
File
File brush
Bug and tar remover
Clamp
Work gloves
Honing oil or beeswax
1. Clamp your axe
Using a file to sharpen your axe will require a lot of movement. You’ll need to secure the axe to a surface to prevent any injury while you are filing the axe. Use a clamp and clamp the axe’s handle to a work table, allowing the blade to extend just past the edge of the table so that you can safely file it.
2. Clean the axe
Use bug and tar remover to clean off any debris or build-up on the axe’s surface. This build-up or debris may clog your file, so working on a clean surface is essential. You can do this by cleaning off the axe before starting.
3. File the axe
You may proceed to file the axe one side at a time. Once you finish with one side, turn the axe around and file the other. Use slow and deliberate strokes and move one stroke at a time. Always wear safety gloves that are specifically designed for this type of work. Always try to maintain the bevel of the blade to avoid reshaping it.
Other ways to sharpen an axe
There are several other ways to sharpen an axe. You could use a bench grinder. You may need additional equipment, such as a bench grinder, safety glasses, and honing oil or beeswax. Always start by cleaning the grinding wheel and axe first. Then, grind one side at a time. Use precision and focus.
Alternatively, you could use a sharpening stone. This is one of the oldest methods; the only additional tool you will need is a grinding stone.
Clean your axe and tools before starting. Oil the stone with honing oil. Hold the axe steady with the sharp edge away from you, and use the rough side of the grinding stone to work the edge of the axe.
A lot of time and effort goes into laying concrete structures, but sometimes it is necessary to tear apart those structures for other construction purposes. Tearing apart concrete is no easy task. Builders and contractors often turn to jackhammers to help with this big job.
A jackhammer is a serious piece of heavy equipment, and jackhammer operators must understand a few important rules before working with this tool. This quick guide will provide you with some important tips on how to operate a jackhammer.
Is a Jackhammer Easy To Operate?
The short answer is, no. A jackhammer is a major piece of heavy equipment. It takes practice to learn how to operate this equipment safely and effectively. Although a jackhammer can greatly speed up a concrete demo job when used correctly, it can actually slow down operations and endanger the team when it is not used correctly, making it a liability rather than an asset. This is why you should pay special attention to the following considerations before operating a jackhammer.
Proper Safety Equipment
There is specific safety equipment that will need to be used before you can safely operate this equipment. You will need to use the following types of safety equipment to avoid serious injuries:
Earmuff or buds
Hat
Goggles
Respirator
Visibility vest
Work gloves
Steel toed shoes
Proper Training
Do not attempt to use a jackhammer until you have had proper training on safe operation. If you are using the jackhammer at work, your employer must provide this training. If you are using a jackhammer at home, it is your responsibility to get the proper training before operating the equipment. Your safety and the safety of those around you depend on your proper training.
Proper Placement
Jackhammers are used along with an air compressor to reduce noise. Be sure to place the compressor far from the worksite. This can help keep your ears safe and make the job run more smoothly.
Proper Inspection
You should take some time prior to the operation to inspect the jackhammer. You need to check for any defects or damage that could affect the operation of the equipment.
Proper Self Position
It is also very important that you position yourself properly as well while operating the jackhammer. It should be placed at an angle leaning back toward you. This will give you more control over the tool.
Be sure to lift with your thighs. This will decrease the instance of back strain.
Proper Point Usage
Jackhammers come with different points to be used on different materials. Choosing the correct point for the material will ensure a safe job that runs smoothly and effectively. Be sure to study the points and their different applications so that you can choose the proper one for your project.
Proper Work Area
The area you will be working in should be cleared prior to operation. All bystanders should be cleared as well as animals. If you notice someone entering the job area, shut down the machine.
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Any job can be done correctly with the right equipment. Renting the right equipment comes down to organizing ahead of time, familiarizing yourself with where you stand, and focusing on the details. There are several dos and don’ts when it comes to rental equipment. Here is what to know about renting equipment.
Do’s & Don’ts of Rental Equipment
If you are wondering how to rent equipment, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.
Make sure you put some time aside to do research before you rent any equipment. Try to find at least three different rental companies to compare. Check their quality, pricing, and other things, including deposits, delivery, and pick-up times. Once this information has been gathered, you can head to the facility to meet in person. When meeting in person, grade their customer service. Even though rental equipment should not be expensive, you should obtain high-quality equipment backed by excellent customer service. If you are not receiving that, you will probably be better off purchasing the equipment on your own.
Make sure that you not only do your research but put down a deposit. This guarantees that you will be able to cater to your guests in the best way possible on your big day. The best parties or events were planned early, and plenty of time was left to make any necessary changes.
Make sure that you ask as many questions as needed. If you don’t understand something, ask. Knowing where you stand and the task that needs to be completed is essential. This will help you better understand how long you need your rental equipment and how much equipment you need to rent. For example, you know that your job will take four hours to complete, but there is only a limit of three hours on the equipment. This means you must make some adjustments and plan accordingly.
Do know what your budget is, so you can accurately choose the option that is most affordable for you.
Don’t walk away from the rental company until you understand what’s expected of you as the customer and from the rental company. This is where many issues occur. This is why checking the terms and conditions box is an absolute must, but you should understand what those terms and conditions actually mean.
Avoid renting alone. Instead, try to find a friend or neighbor to rent with to help save yourself some money. It is already hectic enough for you to spend additional money on your event and rent the equipment needed.
Doing yard work and other projects by yourself is commendable. However, some projects go much more smoothly with the assistance of a mechanical item. A power auger can come in handy if you need to dig holes to create room for a fence or another fixture in the yard.
You can find power augers at home improvement stores and online shops, which can be set up for one or more users. The following are some instructions on how to use a power auger to help you with your project:
Run It
It’s understandable if you need to learn how to start a power auger. The first step in the process is stabilizing the unit on the ground and setting the choke in the "RUN" position.
Pump It
Next, you’ll need to look for the primer bulb and pump that several times. You are done priming it when you see the fuel line.
Set the Choke
The manufacturer’s guide provides instructions on setting the choke, which might be different for every model. Thus, you’ll need to refer to your guide and set the choke the way it explains. Typically, you will put it to "FULL CHOKE" if the engine is cold and "HALF CHOKE" for a warm engine.
Turn It On
Now your auger needs a little power. Hence, you need to turn the ignition to the "ON" position to start.
Pull and Squeeze
The next step requires you to do two activities at once. Master this, and you’ll know how to start an auger appropriately.
You’ll need to pull the start cord while you squeeze the throttle. Ensure that you keep your feet away from the auger while trying to start it because it will be engaged and can cause bodily harm. Steer clear enough to avoid injuries when it starts.
Dig
Avoid squeezing the throttle too much at first. The goal should be to squeeze it just enough to pierce the ground. Let it get into the ground a few inches before applying additional pressure to the throttle. Once you do that, you and the other person can get into a digging groove.
Tips for Using an Auger Effectively
These are some tips to be mindful of as you use the power auger:
Don’t Work Too Hard
The machine is there to make your work easier. Thus, you don’t need to put a tremendous amount of power into operating it. Let its weight handle the load.
Remove Dirt Periodically
You should stop the machine every now and again and then pull it out to remove some of the dirt. This simple process will make the work a lot easier for you.
Remove Difficult Objects With Your Hands
Stop the machine if you come across any challenging objects like rocks. Pull them out of the way with your hands, and be careful when doing so.
Rake and Shovel Extra Dirt
Rake and shovel the extra dirt you pull out of the hole to avoid damaging your grass. Your yard will thank you for it.
Use the process and tips mentioned above to use your power auger effectively. Your tasks should be much more manageable that way.
