By Peter McLaren
The Boys' Axe
![am64j.jpg (34903 bytes)](../../../images/am64j_small.jpg)
Fig. 64.
Proper method of carrying the Boys' Axe on hike.
Note that edge is protected.
While the scout axe is
the ideal axe for carrying on a hike, and for general scout work, every camp
should be equipped with one or more boys' axes.
This pattern is an exact
duplicate of the large chopping axe, except that the weight does not exceed
two and one-half pounds, and the handle length is only about twenty-eight
inches.
It is just as efficient in use, within the limitations of
its size, as the large axe. Logs or trees up to twelve inches in diameter can be
cut with facility.
I would warn against the practice of appointing one of the
larger boys as the official camp chopper, limiting the use of the boys' axe to
him alone. Let every boy master the technique of chopping with a two-hand
axe.
Again the contest idea may be evoked to create interest. The scoutmaster
should be able to devise a number of demonstrations with certain standards of
proficiency.
Keep a record of each boy's progress as a mark upon which he can
improve.
The preceding chapters of this book, dealing with the care and use of
the men's chopping axe, cover in all essential points the care and use of the
boys' axe.
The filing and honing may be made the basis of one demonstration.
The proper grips, position on log, and correct angle for chopping could be taken
up in another demonstration.
Then stage a log chopping demonstration. Select an
eight- inch log and have the boys chop half-way through it, giving scores on the cleanness of the cut, the angle of
cut, and the correctness of forehand and backhand strokes used.
Then give a
demonstration on a similar log in which it is to be chopped clear through.
Give
credits an the same basis as in the preceding demonstration, and in addition,
give credits to the boys whose two notches come closest to meeting perfectly
as the log is severed.
Finally let the boys who have attained a certain standard
chop against each other, crediting each up to 60 points for skill and up to 40
points for speed.
Skill comes with practice. Post a record of the chopping time
made. The boys will soon be clamoring for another contest, for an opportunity to
lower the camp record.
Complete details for cutting a log are pictured and
described in Chapter 3, and complete rules for conducting a contest are given
in Chapter 7.
Encourage the use of the boys' axe at every opportunity. Some
troop, somewhere in America, contains a boy who is going to carry the title of
Boy Scouts' Champion Chopper. (See reference to Scouts' National Championship
Contest on page 60.)
Every boy should have a respect for the axe--but not a fear
of it. Study carefully the precautions noted in the chapter "Playing
Safe." Impart to your boys the need of caution--just as you would warn them
of deep water, without discouraging the mastery of swimming.
In travel, the
boys' axe should be attached to the pack, with the edge protected and the handle
pointing downward, as pictured in Figure 64.
See Also:
The Boy Scout and His Axe