Froe
Traditional
tool for splitting straight-grained wood such as riving (splitting) a
long rail (for a split rail fence), or riving willow, small alder or ?
into long strips to weave into rustic furniture, gates, fences.
To use you knock the froe "blade" into the end of a small pole and then
push, tap, wiggle the froe as you're driving/moving it down the length
of the pole.
Most commonly used to hand split shakes and
shingles...in which case you line up the froe at the point you want to
split the shake, give the top of the froe blade a healthy tap (or two),
and follow with a quick twist (back or forth motion) to the haft
(handle) to 'pop' the shake or shingle free of the shake bolt (the
chunk of wood you're using to make the shakes/shingles). For
all but the best ax pros, the froe is a more accurate tool, allowing
you to set the blade precisely where you would like to split the wood. Safety considerations
When hammering the portion of the froe blade projecting from the
wood, the handle must be held fast and firm, otherwise the blade may
lever the handle with equal force toward the user. This commonly
happens when the froe encounters a hidden knot in the wood.
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Froe-Ox-head
Made in Germany
This
froe is made to exacting standards in Germany. The entire length of the
blade is carefully heat treated to provide an edge that will retain
it's sharpness in extended use.
Slightly lighter duty than the Gransfors Bruks. However, very nice for
the price.
The "eye" appears to be a single piece however the blade is painted
green and we've not sanded enough paint off to take a really good look.
Blade
length 14-3/4", width 1-3/4"
Approximate blade thickness is 1/4"
Overall length 17-1/2"
Handle length 19"
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Froe-US
Manufactured
in the US.
This
is
technically called a shingle froe, though it's not much smaller than
the Ox-head listed above. The "eye" on this one is a a split eye where
the seam is welded at the blade. The eye has a hole drilled in the side
and comes with a wood screw so you can secure the handle to the head
(blade), if you want.
Blade
length 15-1/4", width 2"
Approximate blade thickness is 1/4"
Overall length 17"
Handle length 18"
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