Preview: The Birth Of A Tool, Axe Making

This video is one that I keep coming back to. The process of creating a tool from start to finish with this level of quality is stunning. The carpenter customizes each handle to properly fit the blade made by the blacksmith. The process is humbling and incredible, which makes me want to add a John Neeman piece to my own collection. In my shop, almost everything I’ve acquired has been manufactured by a machine. This short film peaks my interest and imagination of what is possible to build with a pair of hands.

You can have a look at their site here: NeemanTools.com

John Neeman Tools are being hand crafted in Latvia.

They have some incredible Chisels and Knives on the site as well…

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8 Responses So Far to “The Birth Of A Tool, Axe Making

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    Hugh Bamford says:

    Amazing how a simple tool most of us take for granted is made with such fine craftsmanship.

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    Michael Dysart says:

    As a former blacksmith who most enjoyed tool making, it is delightful to see this video included on the OCH website. Congratulations, well done!

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    Dustin Urban says:

    Thanks or posting, Eric. What a stunning video! Brings to mind the wooden boat world and the words of Doug Hylan from a post here on OCH
    ( https://www.offcenterharbor.com/2012/03/03/why-choose-a-traditionally-built-boat/ )

    “Why have a traditionally built boat? For the same reason that you might prefer to eat at a beautiful mahogany dining table instead of one covered with Formica. Or hand-write a note at a heirloom cherry desk instead of a mass-produced particleboard affair. Anachronisms perhaps, but in this world of accelerating change, traditional objects can help ground us, help us remember that there is more to humanity than the latest thing.”

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    William Gehring says:

    Thanks for posting this amazing video. It is humbling to watch this practiced skill, one that probably evolved over hundreds, if not thousands, of craftsmen.