Trail Work Tools



McLeod: The McLeod with its large hoe like blade on one side and tined blade on the other is a forest fire tool common in America's western mountain ranges. It was originally intended for raking fire lines with the teeth and for cutting branches and sod with the sharpened hoe edge. The McLeod is useful for removing slough and berm from a trail and tamping or compacting tread. It can also be used to shape a trail's backslope. Because of its shape, the McLeod is an awkward tool to transport and store. Carry it with the tines pointing toward the ground, ideally with a sheath over the cutting edge.

Safety tip: Stand the McLeod on its head instead of flat on the ground when you need to put it aside while working.

posted: 2010-04-01