How To Best Chop & Store Firewood
Firewood is a crucial resource for preppers and survivalists. It provides warmth, light, and a means to cook food in emergency situations. But, have you ever found yourself chopping and stacking firewood only to find it has become damp and useless? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to chop and store firewood like a pro!
- Choosing the Right Wood: Not all wood is created equal. Softwoods, such as pine, are quick to ignite but burn quickly, while hardwoods, such as oak, burn longer but take longer to ignite. Choose the right type of wood for your needs and plan accordingly.
- Sharpening Your Tools: A dull ax is a dangerous ax, and a dull chainsaw is just frustrating. Keep your chopping tools sharp and in good condition to make the job easier and safer. And, trust us, you’ll thank us later when you’re not stuck with a dull ax in the middle of a stormy night.
- Preparing the Logs: Cut logs into the desired length for your fire pit or stove, and split the logs into smaller pieces if necessary. Make sure to split the logs evenly to ensure they burn evenly and don’t leave behind unburned chunks.
- Stacking the Wood: Now it’s time to stack your firewood. Start by placing a layer of logs on the ground, making sure they are spaced evenly to allow air to circulate. Then, add additional layers, making sure to stagger the joints to prevent the stack from collapsing.
- Covering the Stack: Cover the stack of firewood with a tarp or plastic sheeting to keep it dry. Make sure the tarp is tightly secured to prevent wind and rain from getting in.
- Storing the Stack: Store the stack of firewood in a dry, shaded area away from direct sunlight. If possible, store the stack off the ground to prevent dampness from seeping into the bottom layers.
- The Art of Seasoning: Freshly cut wood contains a lot of moisture, which can make it difficult to ignite and can also produce a lot of smoke. Allow your firewood to dry and season for at least 6-12 months before using it. The best way to know if your firewood is seasoned is to give it a good knock. If it sounds hollow, it’s ready to burn!
- Have Fun with It: Let’s face it, chopping and stacking firewood can be a lot of work. But, it can also be a fun and rewarding activity. Make it a family or group event and enjoy the great outdoors while getting your firewood ready for winter.
In conclusion, chopping and storing firewood is a crucial skill for preppers and survivalists. By following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your firewood dry, seasoned, and ready to use when you need it. And, who knows, you might even have some fun along the way. Just remember to stay safe and sharpen those tools!
Sharpening an Axe:
- Start by cleaning the blade of any dirt or debris.
- Secure the axe in a vice or clamp to hold it in place while you sharpen it.
- Use a coarse whetstone or file to remove any nicks or chips in the blade.
- Switch to a finer whetstone to sharpen the blade. Hold the axe at the correct angle (usually around 20-30 degrees) and move the stone along the blade, making sure to maintain the angle.
- Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the blade is sharp to your satisfaction.
- Use a honing steel to realign the blade’s edge.
- Wipe the blade down with oil to protect it from rust.
Sharpening a Chainsaw:
- Start by checking the chain’s depth gauges, which are the small metal projections near the cutting teeth. If they are worn down, they need to be filed back to the proper height.
- Secure the chainsaw in a vice or clamp.
- Use a round file to sharpen the teeth on the chain. Start with a coarse file and progress to a finer file.
- Make sure to sharpen each tooth at the same angle, which is usually around 30 degrees.
- Use a flat file to sharpen the depth gauges.
- Repeat the process for each tooth on the chain.
- Once all the teeth are sharp, use a chainsaw sharpening guide to ensure that each tooth is at the correct angle and height.
- Clean the chainsaw and oil the chain to protect it from rust.
Note: Always use caution when sharpening tools and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific tool you are using. If you are unsure about how to sharpen your tools, consider seeking the advice of an experienced professional.
