Where do you get good trail tools such as a Mcleod type rake/hoe?... Trying to get some work done aroune here!
Perfect advice. If you use a 10" or 12" mill bastard file there are no worries about ruining the temper.Metal vary from one batch of Rogue Hoe to another because it's recycled AG disc. Carbon content change a LOT from one batch to another. The tempering effect work on high carbon mix only. And usually, blue mean overheated and temper is affected so most of the time, the edge won't stay sharp as long and the metal get more brittle.
Before getting a grinder on that pulaski, I would suggest cold-forging the metal back into place with a hammer. Then you restore the edge with a grinder/mill/file or whatever you prefer. DON'T HEAT THE METAL. That's the key to keeping a strong edge. Also, don't over sharpen the edge like most people do : under 30deg and it's too thin.
The Zac round point shovel with an ash handle and sharpened edges is my favorite trail building tool for digging, cutting scrub oak roots, levering rocks. If you haven't used one you are in for a treat, there is no shovel like it that I know of. Be aware that the extra HD models are SUPER beefy and VERY heavy. I personally prefer the ash handles (better balance, lighter) but the super HD tools can definitely take more abuse. The HD bow rake is great for raking out a tread through small embedded rock fields, it's much beefier than a McLeod.I have bought my pick, shovel, and McLeod from Zac® Tools - "The Strongest Shovels on Earth". Their tools are tough - fiberglass handles with strong reinforcement to the actual tool/cutting edge. - Gus
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These things have been invaluable for our latest project with 2 35' bridges. Sturdy, low center of gravity and narrow enough for most single track. Made moving 35' 6x18" glu-lams possible with relatively few people. Ours were provided by a volunteer who does HVAC work, if you ask around you might find one to borrow. Great for moving lumber and other heavy long things. We made a rack for it and put 25 or so wet roughcut 3x8 5' decking pieces on it.
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