Tool maintenance
From Tiny Farm Wiki
Maintaining your hand tools is important to longevity and safety. Most importantly, though, is that your tools will work their best if you keep them sharp and tight.
[edit] Basic Maintenance
To keep a good edge on your axes, picks, mattocks, weed whips, etc. you'll need the following supplies:
- Tool file and handle
- File cleaner
- Optional
- Vise
To put an edge back on your tools you'll want to use the file by placing the tip of the file on the blade of the tool and pushing the file away from you. You should only apply the file in one direction. You can you the larger flat sides of the file to put an edge back on the tool at the appropriate angle and the narrow sides to remove stubborn dents.
Because of the proximity of your hand to the blade you'll want something on the handle to protect your hand. Firefighters and trail workers often cut a piece of old fire hose, fold it over, and insert the file through the tube into the handle. Really any old piece of thick rubber will do - old inner tubes, etc.
The vise is helpful for holding your tool in place while you work the edge with the file. Alternatively people will often dig their pulaski or mattock into the ground or a log and work the opposite side of the head.
[edit] Replacing a Handle
Replacing a handle can be tricky. Cut off the broken handle just below the tool's head then drive the remainder out of the top.
Put a new handle in and drive a new wedge into it. Instructions for this are usually included with the replacement handle and wedge (note: they may be sold separately).
