Hatchet

From Encyclopedia Jr, free information reference for Kids

See Hatchet (novel) for the young adult novel.

See Hatchet (film) for the horror film.

Hatchet from the old French 'hachette' a diminutive form of the word 'hache' or axe. The hatchet is a single handed striking tool with a sharp blade used to cut and split wood. Hatchets are taxonomically differentiated from hand axes by some using one or more of the following characteristics: the addition of a hammer head and a head 1-3 pounds (500 to 1,500 grams) in weight.

[edit] Types of Hatchets

Lathing hatchet - Blade flat along the top to facilitate use in corners and close to ceilings. The poll is a hammer head (often checkered) and there is a notch in the underside of the blade for pulling nails.Used to apply wooden lath in preparation for the application of plaster.

Shingling Hatchet - Round shouldered blade with hammer head, sometimes with a claw or a notch in the blade for pulling nails.

Carpenter's Hatchet - Kent pattern head, general purpose or bench tool.

Broad or Side Hatchet - Kent pattern head sharpened on one side. Used in hewing as a broad axe.

[edit] References

Dictionary of Woodworking Tools - Salaman, R.A. 1975 and 1989, ISBN 0-942391-51-9