Fire Axe ??

Ok here is a question or argument I have seem to come across alot latley in the service,

Which is better the 8Lb axe or the 6Lb axe?

I know laws of physics state that the heavier the object is that
falls the more work is begin done ,

What is everyones opinion on this topic?

The 8Lb ? or the 6 Lb ?

0 members like this

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mike on July 30, 2009 at 11:29am

We use 8lb.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Timothy Overly on July 30, 2009 at 11:58am

8lb flat head is much more effective for forcible entry ops, due to the extra mass.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by John Schander on July 30, 2009 at 2:02pm

Depends on who is using the axe. I'm 6'5" and weighover 200lbs. I use the8 pound axe, smaller FF's use the 6 pound axe.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by John Rulli Jr. on July 30, 2009 at 2:11pm

I use a 6lb. flat head axe with my irons in my pov. On the rigs we use 8lb axes

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Paul Montpetit on July 30, 2009 at 3:54pm

Depends on whi is swinging it....If I have to choose...You swinging it....8 lb....me swinging it....6 lb....LOL Seriously..you can get more done with the 8lb..more mass more umph....Paul

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Tiffanie Pettis on August 4, 2009 at 2:28pm

effectuve firefighting sometimes requires brute strength. the 8lb would be more effective but like stated me being 5'5" 130lbs. im gonna get alot more of a work out thatn some of the other guys...(not saying im weak but just takes more effort)... this may be something to consider as to who you have for the job and what their physical capabilities and limitations are.---also the aplication of the tool it may at some points be more effective to have a smaller axe but for forcible applications like ventilation and such you have alot more power with the big toys.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Holly on August 11, 2009 at 2:23am

I get better results with a 6lbs axe. The bigger guys use the 8lbs. I really think it comes down to the size of whos using it.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Terry Collins on October 7, 2009 at 5:42pm

try a 8lb flat head, next time you have a training whatever take it up on a comp roof and use the back side, totally destroy the roof. Great backup to the saw, and obviously is great for forcible entry. I take it in on almost every job. I toss it in a axe belt that I had custom made for it. If your interested I got it at www.traditionalfireleather.com Works awesome with all different kinds of axes, and even has a a lock to hold in a halligan if you want

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Rusty Mancini on October 7, 2009 at 6:34pm

8 lb. might be heavier for a smaller firefighter, but you'll get more out of it ! Also remember, a well sharpen 8 lb.der will let you work more efficient.