The Axe

14.3 The Axe

An axe can be used to cut timber or sheet metal. When used to cut sheet metal, the axe should be driven into the sheet so that the blade penetrates to approximately half the depth of the cutting surface. The handle should be pulled upwards so that the head is almost parallel with the metal. A second rescuer should drive the axe head down with a sledge hammer while the first guides it with the handle.

This technique can be used for cutting through galvanised corrugated iron and similar construction materials.