Exactly what I was looking for. I've been using an unrestored froe that looks just like yours. I've cleaned up the edge but need a new handle and your clear concise video will guide me. Thanks.
I have a froe that is very similar to yours. The handle was also wedged like your original handle was. I too want to replace the handle with a friction fit version like you did. You've inspired me to get mine out and restore it. I wonder if they were made around the same time.
Liked and subscribed. Thanks for sharing. Is the wood you are using green? I'm only asking because ofvthe bark. I have a pear tree that is on it's way out after 90 years. I'd like to use it for handles and such but don't know if I can work it green. Thanks again and have a happy day!
Thanks John! The wood I used here is very green. I have another video where I used green pear wood to make a chisel handle. Note pear wood tends to check and twist quickly as it dries, so be sure to seal the end grain of your logs right away.
What woods are best for making the frog and what shape should it be? I'm in northern California near Oregon. Boiled Linseed Oil vs Tung Oil? How do you protect the edge of the froe when transporting it?
Hi John, any strong hard wood should be fine, eg oak, ash, hickory, maple. Preferably riven with very straight grain. Tung oil is a very nice finish but pure tung oil is expensive, takes a very long time to cure, and has a short shelf life. For protecting the edge, google "froe sheath"; there are some really nice examples of leather sheaths that slide over the blade with a strap that goes around the eye.
I agree with eye protection, but gloves and a wire wheel is just asking for problems. Gloves can easily snag and cause you to break fingers. It's actually VERY dangerous. A bite from a wire wheel is a mild abrasion, and although painful, its far less painful than snapping a finger or two
@josephpadula2283 0 seconds ago Real Wrought iron like this is very rust resistant . What is called wrought iron today is just steel . I learned this seeing real wrought iron fences in Galveston Texas on 100 year on homes and mansions in great shape while modern “wrought iron “ ( steel with modern paint) was badly rusted! Galveston is a coastal city with salt spray And periodic hurricanes flooding the town with sea water, Yet the old fenced that had been submerged in salty seas were still good. Wrought iron is no longer made anywhere in the world and is only available as recovers from old buildings or equipment.
Nice job with the tapered fit on the handle. Shouldn’t have had a wedge in it. Looks like a previous owner also used a steel hammer on it. Definite no-no.
