Badge Request Axe User

[Barry Rowland]

A friend of Noah's gave him this engineering marvel awhile back.  It's a handsome piece of production!  I went out and put it to use cutting some smaller growth just to see how it works.  I think its strengths lie in splitting but I didn't have any logs cut to put it to work.  It's not nearly as awkward to swing as it might seem.  Anyways, I respectfully ask for an Axe User Badge. 

More adventures to follow as I have some time to chase some childhood journeys again! 

[AzteCypher]

That's a neat piece of equipment right there.

[Barry Rowland]

Thanks Aztec!  It's definitely unique.

[Farmer X]

Chopper 1? Whatever the mark reads, it's a neat axe, and very badge-worthy! And might I ask what watch you're wearing in the photo?

[Barry Rowland]

Yessir, Chopper 1, which I've never seen before Dan.  It's a unique concept.  Noah says it's to keep the blade angle at 45 degrees.  The housing for the arms is so wide I think it's going to make a good splitter. 

That watch is a G Shock Mudman, Dan.  It's my favorite watch, and about as complicated as my skills can wrap their hands around 

[Farmer X]

Thanks! You'll have a PM soon.

[IMR4198]

   I have seen those axes with the arms on them before.  The idea is instead of having an extra heavy head to split wood cuts (like a maul or go-devil) that when you make a cut, the arms spread out and force the block apart.  Be hard to cut with the thing.  Strictly a splitter.  Best wishes.  Gary

[Barry Rowland]

  Thanks Gary!  That's what I thought too.  It's a little top heavy but not as bad as it looks.  It's a handsome beast!

[IMR4198]

  One of my friends had a Sotz Monster Maul.  Do you remember those things?  They weighed about 12 pounds.  The three cornered head was just a big wedge.  Steel handle.  He swore by his.  It might have been good for a few swings, but I doubt if he ever split much firewood with it.  Best wishes.  G
 

[Barry Rowland]

I actually have one believe it or not Gary!  They're beasts!

[Barry Rowland]

Gary, here it is!

[IMR4198]

   I never doubted you a second, Barry.  I wonder who remembers the other Sotz wonder product?  Their double barrel stove kit. 
   Best I remember, you had to provide two 55 gallon steel drums.  The kit came with steel legs and hardware.  Cut a hole in a drum for the provided door.  Then you mounted the bottom drum on the legs and fitted the pipe from it into the top drum.  Smoke came out the bottom drum and hopefully filtered through the top drum, which acted as a heat exchanger I suppose.  Then the smoke could go up the chimney. 
   If you got this thing stoked with wood, you better get ready to open the doors for some cold air.  I think there are some knock-offs around now.  Too bad there isn't a Sotz monster maul badge, Barry.  You just could have the only one.  Best wishes.  Gary