Tools That Stand the Test of Time

Wondering if your grandfather's old knives or grandmother's gardening tools are worth saving? In some cases, they may be better than buying new. A seasoned gardener, outdoorsman, woodworker and primitive craftsman shares his advice on tools that stand the test of time.

Some tools used by our forefathers are still relevant today. They have truly stood the test of time.

As you read the following words, I think that you will agree. Some jobs require the same approach and the same tools as they ever did in the past.

Essential Woodcrafting Tools

I have a number of tools that were passed down to me from my grandfather, father and step-father.

They are long gone, but I still vividly remember their efforts in accomplishing certain tasks.

As I use these tools today, it refreshes my memory of when they used them for woodcraft. Tools_Ross

Handsaw: I have a handsaw that belonged to my paternal grandfather. Although I have a good collection of modern, electric wood saws, the handsaw is good for quick, little jobs and eliminates hunting an electrical outlet and unrolling an electrical cord.
Draw knife: This is another tool that was his and it is just the ticket for shaping a rough piece of wood to perfection. It is excellent for debarking a log or sapling for a project.
Chisels: Most of these were passed down from those three special people. They are excellent for trimming and chiseling wood to achieve a perfect fit.
Axes are not as common in today’s usage, but I have a collection of them in various sizes and weights that have served me well in the collection and splitting of firewood.
Bucksaw: A quick, homemade saw for cutting firewood or other chores can be easily made from scrap lumber and a purchased blade. A photo of one that I recently fashioned with a blade from a small bowsaw blade is featured right.

Timeless Gardening Tools

There have been many innovations in gardening throughout the years, yet some tools remain staples for the novice and professional grower.

Tillers

Like most gardeners, I use a tiller to prepare the soil, but certain hand tools are absolutely necessary for laying rows, removing pesky weeds and performing other tasks.

For example, when I plant tomato seedlings, I dig the holes with hole diggers.

They will be 12” to 15” deep. Then, I will add a handful of potting soil with slow-release fertilizer and a small handful of granulated fertilizer (5-10-10).

The seedlings are planted below ground level, and as they grow out of the hole, I will add soil.

This method assures that the plant develops a good root base and will thrive, even in dry weather. If conditions are dry, like this season, I will use soaker hoses every other day.

Hoes and Rakes

Hoes and rakes are handy tools that can be used to remove weeds between times when the soil in the middle of the rows is cultivated with the tiller. After the plants are established, these tools may also be used to pull dirt to the base of the plants to ensure more robust growth.

Hoes should be kept sharp by touching the edge up with a grinder, or with a table-top belt sander using a medium to course belt.

A file can also be used for a quick touch-up. The edge should be sharp, with an approximate 45º angle. This will cut tough weeds, but not dull a quickly as a thinner edge.