A dedicated ‘stick chopping’ tool from Ray Iles.
Do we think you need a specialist stick chopper over a froe or an axe? Not necessarily. But we’ve decided to stock this because we often see forest school leaders using billhooks to split billets of wood, putting force through the back of the billhook (which is not something we recommend).
This tool has the same spine as a Ray Iles froe, meaning it is designed to be struck on the spine and is therefore more durable. However, it is handled in a similar way to a billhook, which may feel more familiar for forest school leaders who prefer that style of tool for control.
It may also appeal to anyone who doesn’t feel as comfortable using a hatchet for splitting kindling.
We recommend using this tool for splitting billets up to around 5–6" in diameter.
Product Specifications:- Blade length: 17cm / approx 7"
- Total length: 32cm / approx 12"
- Weight: 700g
About Ray Iles:
Specialising in 'no-nonsense' tools, British toolmaker Ray Iles is an stalwart amongst the green woodworking community, producing well-made and affordable tools that with proper care will last a lifetime. Ray Iles is the eldest son of Ashley Iles (of edge tools fame). Both Ashley Iles and Ray were trained in the individual trades of toolmaking (forging, grinding, handle making, etc.) by the
little mesters of Sheffield in the 1950’s. Secrets that had been jealously guarded for generations were freely passed on to prevent them from being lost forever.
The Ashley Iles family and business moved to Lincolnshire where they have perpetuated toolmaking in the old tradition ever since. Ray set up his own business about 30 years ago and now produces a range of exceptional green woodworking tools. His tools perfectly compliment the carving and turning tools produced by his brother Tony at Ashley Iles (Edge Tools)
We carry a wide selection of commonly used greenwood tools produced by Ray Iles at Woodsmith; please note most tools come with a factory grind and will need a final hone before use.
