If you find yourself in a survival situation without any tools, knowing how to make a basic axe out of wood and rocks can be incredibly useful. An axe is a versatile tool that can be used for chopping wood, building shelter, and even hunting. While it may not be as sturdy or efficient as a store-bought axe, a homemade axe can still get the job done.
To make an axe out of wood and rocks, you will need:
- A sturdy piece of wood for the handle
- Two rocks for the axe head
- Strong vine or cordage
First, you will need to find a suitable piece of wood for the handle. Look for a branch or fallen tree limb that is about the same length as your forearm. Make sure it is sturdy enough to withstand chopping and won’t break easily.
Next, you will need to find two rocks that are dense and heavy enough to function as the axe head. The rocks should be roughly the size and shape of your palm. You can use rocks that are naturally sharp or rocks that you can sharpen with another stone.
Choosing the right materials
When it comes to making an axe out of wood and rocks, selecting the right materials is crucial. The durability and effectiveness of your axe will depend on the quality of the materials you choose. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Wood:
The choice of wood is essential as it determines the overall strength and weight of the axe. Hardwoods like oak, hickory, or ash are ideal options due to their strength and durability. These woods have excellent shock resistance, making them perfect for the handle of your axe.
2. Rocks:
Selecting the right rocks for the axe head is equally important. Look for dense and durable rocks that can withstand the impact of chopping. Consider using igneous rocks like basalt or granite, as they have high strength and hardness. These types of rocks are commonly found in nature and can serve as great alternatives to metal axe heads.
Remember to choose rocks that have smooth surfaces for easier shaping and crafting. Jagged or uneven rocks may make it more challenging to create a functional axe head.
Pro tip: Before using any rocks, make sure they are thoroughly inspected for cracks or weaknesses. Faulty rocks can break during use, compromising the safety and effectiveness of your axe.
By carefully selecting the right wood and rocks, you can ensure the longevity and performance of your homemade axe. Take your time to find the best materials available, and you’ll be well on your way to crafting a reliable and efficient tool.
Gathering wood and rocks
Before you can make an axe out of wood and rocks, you need to gather the necessary materials. Here’s how you can gather wood and rocks:
Gathering wood:
To gather wood, follow these steps:
- Look for trees in your surroundings.
- Select a tree that is suitable for wood gathering.
- Approach the tree and check if it is alive or dead.
- If the tree is dead, it’s ideal for gathering wood.
- Use a sharp tool such as a hatchet or a saw to cut or chop the dead tree.
- Collect the fallen branches and trunks of the tree.
- Store the gathered wood in a suitable container or carry it with you to your work area.
Gathering rocks:
To gather rocks, follow these steps:
- Look for rocky areas such as riverbeds, cliffs, or exposed rock formations.
- Search for rocks that are suitable for axe-making.
- Choose rocks that are durable and solid.
- Collect rocks of different sizes, as you’ll need them for different parts of the axe.
- Carry the gathered rocks in a durable bag or container.
Once you have successfully gathered enough wood and rocks, you can proceed with making your axe. Remember to choose the right materials and tools for the job to ensure the best results.
Preparing the wood for the handle
Before you start carving the handle of your axe, you’ll need to choose the right type of wood. Hardwoods like hickory or ash are commonly used for axe handles due to their strength and durability. Make sure the wood is dry and free from knots or cracks.
Gathering the wood
Look for fallen trees or branches that are suitable for making an axe handle. Ideally, you want a piece of wood that is straight and at least a few inches wider and longer than the desired length of your handle.
Once you’ve found the right piece of wood, use a saw or axe to cut it to the proper length. Remove any branches or extra material until you have a clean, straight log.
Drying the wood
Green wood is too moist to work with, so it’s important to dry it properly before carving the handle. The drying process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the size and type of wood.
To speed up the drying process, you can use a kiln or a controlled heating environment. However, air-drying is the most common method used. Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area, preferably off the ground, and allow it to dry naturally.
Check the wood regularly for any signs of warping or cracking. If you notice any issues, you may need to adjust the drying conditions to prevent further damage.
Once the wood is completely dry, you can proceed to the next step of shaping and carving the handle for your axe.
Shaping and attaching the rock head
Once you have gathered the necessary materials, it’s time to shape the rock head of your wooden axe. Follow these steps to shape and attach the rock head:
Step 1: Selecting a suitable rock
Look for a rock that is dense and durable, preferably one with a flat surface. This will ensure that the rock head is sturdy and able to withstand the impact of chopping.
Step 2: Shaping the rock
Use a hand tool, such as a chisel or a grinder, to carefully shape the rock into a desired axe-like shape. Start by removing any jagged edges or sharp corners. Aim for a smooth and symmetrical shape that resembles the head of an axe.
Step 3: Creating a groove on the wooden handle
Make a groove on the wooden handle that matches the shape of the rock head. The groove should be wide and deep enough to securely hold the rock head in place. You can use a chisel or a knife to create the groove.
Step 4: Attaching the rock head
Apply a strong adhesive, such as epoxy or wood glue, to the groove on the wooden handle. Carefully insert the rock head into the groove, making sure it fits tightly. Apply pressure and allow the adhesive to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remember to take appropriate safety measures, such as wearing protective gloves and goggles, while shaping and attaching the rock head. Always handle sharp tools with caution to avoid injury.
| Materials Needed: | Tools Needed: |
|---|---|
| – Suitable rock – Wooden handle – Adhesive |
– Chisel or grinder – Knife – Protective gloves and goggles |
Finishing touches and safety measures
Once you have finished crafting your wooden handle and attaching the stone axe head, there are a few finishing touches you can make to ensure your axe is effective and safe to use.
Sharpening the blade: It is important to sharpen your stone axe blade to increase its cutting ability. Use a sharpening stone or a fine-grit sandpaper to carefully sharpen the edge of the stone. Be sure to keep the blade at a consistent angle to achieve a sharp and even edge.
Smoothing the handle: To improve the grip and comfort of your wooden handle, you can use sandpaper to smooth out any rough areas. Pay attention to the hand contact points to ensure a comfortable and secure grip while using the axe.
Adding a protective finish: Applying a protective finish such as linseed oil or wood varnish can help preserve the wooden handle and protect it from moisture and damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the finish and allow it to dry completely before using the axe.
Practicing safety measures: As with any tool, it is important to prioritize safety when using an axe. Always wear protective goggles to shield your eyes from flying debris and use sturdy gloves to protect your hands from potential injuries. Make sure you have a secure footing and a clear swinging area to prevent accidents. Additionally, be mindful of your body position and never swing the axe towards yourself or others.
Remember, proper maintenance and adherence to safety measures are essential when using any hand tool, including a homemade wooden and stone axe.
