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McLeod Tools

  
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Edge Angle

This tool is used in firefighting for cleaning up burnt areas. Parks Service use this tool for clearing up areas for hiking trails.

Guidelines shown below are for Included Angles (α).

A 6" smooth cut machinist’s hand file is useful to carry with you. Use it with a draw filing approach to resharpen the shovel as needed throughout the tool's usage for the day.

All men are created equal, then a few become firemen.

Anonymous

If this tool is used for landscaping, the directions below for tool maintenance are especially important to ensure the longest tool life.

General Guidelines

Type

 α User Stroke

Sharp
ness

Notes
Firefighting 35° Swung or Pulled
3
This could be up to 40°.
Landscaping 30° This could be up to 40°, but if a larger angle is needed, it is best to start at 35°. The landscaper may be hot and sweaty, but they are not wearing the clothing like a firefighter, so they will surely be expected to better care for the tool.

Notes & Comments

Grindstone picture Information regarding Grindstones

Grind Shape & Experience

The shape of the grind used is a call best made by the tool's use, based on your own experience. Additional notes are available on separate web pages for Grind Profiles, and Micro / Secondary Bevels.