The Hatchet (A.) is used for hewing light work, for shingling, and as a heavy hammer, though the face is rarely tempered to stand very heavy usage (Fig. 15, a).

(B.) A hand ax, or broad hatchet (Fig. 15, b), usually is a better grade of tool than the hatchet, and as it is of greater weight, is better adapted for heavy work. For general use it should be sharpened as at c; but for hewing to a line, an edge like d gives the best results.

Fig. 15. - Hatchet and Hand Ax. a, hatchet; b, hand ax ; c, edge for general use; d, edge for hewing to a line.