Storing an ax is important for a regular ax user For example, a lumberjack uses an ax for everyday work. So, taking care of an ax is mandatory for him. Likewise an ax can last a long time if properly cared for. So, the bottom line is, the more you use an ax, the more care it needs. But this can be a big concern for a user who doesn’t know how to store an ax.
Generally, axes should be kept in a dry place, but the place should not be too dry or warm. Because an excessive temperature can shrink an ax handle. In case of transport, axes should be carried in a box.
How To Store An Axe?
Preparation For Storing An Axe
The main goal of preserving an ax is to keep it free from corrosion. Corrosion is the ax’s worst enemy. When a metal pulls oxygen electrons from it, it disintegrates. Because of this, dirt and moisture attract corrosion, so don’t store your ax in dirty or wet conditions. To protect the ax head, apply some oil or vinegar to remove rust.
To preserve the axis, some pre-preparation and post-preparation are required.
Pre-Axe Storage Ideas
Pre-storage tips are essential for starting ax, but there are a few things to keep in mind before using them, such as cleaning the head with steel wool and acetone to remove any sap or tannins.
Assuming the surface is not too dirty, extra fine steel wool and turpentine can be used. But, for dirty blades exposed to the elements, hand sand until it’s smooth.
Here are a few pre-storing steps for the axe.
1. Oiling the Axe
Oil your ax every time you finish cutting. To prevent rust from the ax, use a general-purpose oil, such as 3-in-1 oil, metal-parts oil, or quick-drying gun oil or boiled linseed oil.
2. Make Use of a Rag
Oil your ax every time you finish cutting. To prevent rust from the ax, use a general-purpose oil, such as 3-in-1 oil, metal-parts oil, or quick-drying gun oil or boiled linseed oil.
3. Rub the Rust from The Axe
Use a fresh cloth to wipe off excess oil. Next, rub a piece of steel wool over the rust spots and pull them thoroughly until the force disappears completely. Steel wool works well on a metal surface, helping to prevent rust in certain cleaned areas.
4. Spread Oil with Your Finger
Rub the oil into the ax metal with your fingers in a circular motion. While applying, ensure that the entire head of the ax is covered including top, bottom and both sides. Suppose one wants to clean the metal of an axe.
They repeat the process of wiping the ax head with a clean rag and applying oil to the metal a second time with their fingers.
5. Use Boiled Linseed Oil
Boiled linseed oil has a great effect in keeping wooden ax handles up to date, using boiled linseed oil prolongs the preservation process of ax handles. To oil an ax handle, first clean the handle and let it dry to remove any dirt. Then, apply the required amount of boiled linseed oil all over the handle with a clean cloth or paintbrush.
After applying the oil, the user should wait for a few minutes and then wipe off the oil. Continued use of linseed oil creates a beautiful protective coating on the ax head that extends the life of the wooden ax handle. To get an accurate result, learn how many coats of linseed oil are needed for a particular ax.
6. Using A Leather Mask
A leather mask can form a sheath and protect the ax blade. which can give the ax a safe position. A leather mask protects an ax from moisture. An ax without a mask can be a cause of injury.
7. Use of Beeswax
Apply the wax with a clean cloth or leather. Allow the wax to dry completely before polishing the leather. A waterproof leather mask can extend the life of an ax.
The Factors of Place and Location
1. Put Your Axe in A Dry Place
Never store axes in wet areas. Because moisture is harmful to an axe, it causes rust and corrosion in the ax blade. Don’t put your ax in a position where the ax blade gets stuck and the handle locks in a messy position.
2. Do Not Store Axe at A Freezing Temperature
A freezing temperature is harmful to the ax handle. This makes the handle weak. An ax should be stored at 40-70 °F (4-21 °C).
3. Stay Away from Excessive Heat
Keep your ax away from heat sources such as stoves and fires. To prevent the handle from drying out and loosening from the ax head. For example, don’t place your ax in a boiler room or against a fireplace.
4. Select A Garage in Which to Keep an Axe
Keep an ax in a safe area of a garage or shed. But if the temperature drops below freezing, don’t store the ax there. When placing an ax in a garage, maintain safety when choosing a location to avoid accidents.
5. Hang the Axe to Keep It Safe
Make a mount or a rack to store an ax in a hanging position Since the ax is a heavy object, use a stable wall hook to store the ax safely.
6. Use A Trunk or Box While Transporting
A safety precaution may be necessary when transporting an ax. Otherwise, the blade or handle may be damaged. Also, to avoid damaging the ax handle, do not pile anything heavy on top of it. Keep your ax in the bed of your pickup truck or use a long toolbox.
Tips For Maintaining an Axe
Including storing axes, maintaining an axe is also important. If you are concerned about how to maintain an axe, then avoid cutting the knot and keep the axe near a window.
So that moisture does not accumulate on the ax due to air flow. And finally, build the ax stand around the cauldron. Protects the ax blade from corrosion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, in order for the user to know how to store an ax, he must focus on every detail of the ax storage process. Make sure you use a high quality lube, use a good case, and make sure the ax stand is sturdy.
If you cannot store the ax, use a stand or tool box to secure the ax. Then take proper care of your ax. And to know it in depth, gather knowledge about ax reprofiling or how to replace an ax handle.