Core Tools & Safe Use

Overview

Tools save time and energy when used deliberately. The best tool is the one you can use safely under stress. Keep edges sharp, grips secure, and work areas controlled.

Knife

Grips, cuts, and care.

• Grips: Hammer (power), pinch (control). Keep your off‑hand behind the edge.
• Cuts: Cut away from body; use chest‑lever cuts and supported carving for control.
• Surface: Cut on stable surfaces; baton only with appropriate tang/steel and safe technique.
• Care: Dry, clean, oil lightly; sharpen regularly.

Multitool

Use pliers for hot pots, wire, and small fixes; fold tools properly. Beware pinch points.

Saw

Pull strokes do the work; let the saw cut—don’t force. Wedge kerfs to prevent binding; clear the cut path.

Blade Care

Carry a small sharpener; touch up often. Lubricate pivots; store dry.

PPE

Gloves, eye protection, sturdy shoes. Tie back hair; avoid loose clothing.

Sharps Discipline

Announce “knife” when passing; sheath when not in use; set a blood bubble (arm’s reach safety zone).

☑️ Checklist — Tool Safety

• Stable stance and surface
• PPE on; blood bubble clear
• Cut away; control blade path; keep off‑hand safe
• Sheath/tools stowed after use

Examples

• Fire prep: Feather sticks with chest‑lever cuts; saw branches with wedged kerf; no batoning on rocky ground.
• Food prep: Dedicated clean knife and board; sanitize after raw meats.

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Key Takeaways

• Sharp + controlled beats dull + forceful.
• PPE and discipline prevent most injuries.
• Maintain tools; small, frequent sharpening avoids big repairs.

Scenario

🧭 Scenario (Saw bind avoided): Limb under load; saw starts to pinch.
🔍 Decisions: Force vs wedge; change cut; PPE.
✅ Outcome: You wedge the kerf, change the angle, and finish safely.
🧠 Lessons: Let the saw cut; wedge binds
🏋️ Drill: Practice kerf wedging on scrap wood.