Antique Froe, Handmade Forged Iron Wood Splitting Tool

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Antique Froe, Handmade Forged Iron Wood Splitting Tool

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Sold Date: 02/03/2008
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay
Category: Antiquities

Antique Froe, Primitive Blacksmith-Forged
Iron Wood Splitting Tool

This is a very old, blacksmith forged, wrought iron froe from Grayson County, Kentucky. These were used in splitting rough timber for such things as roofing shingles, split rail fences, and slat-and-wire fences. Or framing corners of log cabins. Or anything else needed in those days before sawmills took over the task of slicing wood.

The froe was sharpened on the outside edge, which was placed in line with the grain of the wood. It was then whacked on the inside edge with a wooden mallet, separating the wood in layers of the desired thickness.

This one is truly an antique, quite possibly, and very probably, dating to the 1800s. The handle, of course, has likely been replaced, and dates to the last time this froe was in use. And if you think about it, that would go back a lot of years.

Regardless of its age, this froe could be sharpened and used today. The cutting edge measures 12 inches, but the entire blade from tip to back of handle is 15 1/2 inches. It's about 2 1/2 inches wide. At the back side it's 1/2 inch thick. The handle is 11 1/2 inches long. I would have guessed these were typically made of hickory due to the toughness, but this one might be poplar. I'm not that good on types of wood. The handle has cracks due to age, but it's still solid, and fits tightly.

The blade has pitting and shows signs of use. You can see w the mallet slightly widened the top of the blade. Think how long that took to occur!

This is truly a unique item, and would be great for a collector. Or for those who like to live in days gone by, and work with tools from that era .

Seller's Policy I offer a shipping discount on multiple items purchased at or near the same time, which can be boxed together. Please feel free to ask questions or request more photos. While I do accept returns, in the event that I have misrepresented an item, it would be much better if you know in advance exactly what you are buying. Ours is a smoke-free home. Our transaction isn't over until you are satisfied , so let me know if you encounter any problems. If t are no problems, let me know that, and I will leave positive feedback for you.

Payment & Shipping Details

U.S. Buyers: You may pay immediately with PayPal, or notify me that you intend to send a Check or Money Order (Postal M.O. preferred). This option is presented when you click the Pay Now button. Shipping is by U.S. Postal Service, based on your zip code. This is cheaper for you in my area than other shippers. A small handling fee of 0 to 60 cents is included in U.S. orders. Insurance is optional, except as follows. It is highly recommended for any kind of breakable object of value, and is included in the shipping/handling fee of larger or more delicate breakables. International Buyers: PayPal only is accepted. You should request your shipping fee in advance, since it can be high . International shipping is by U.S. Postal Service only . You will be charged according to the weight of the item and its destination, plus $1.00 handling fee. I cannot list your item as a gift on the customs form.

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