Paul has a new video out. Sharpening a Kindling Cracker
Paul shows us a store-bought model and a homemade kindling cracker. He explains why it is almost impossible to crack some kindling...you need to grind off the cheeks of the blade. It's also important not to make the blade thin so it remains sturdy and doesn't break easily. I was really surprised when he mentioned the blade will last longer if you leave it rather blunt! Paul also pointed out his ideal mallet is around 4 pounds.
A piece of wood is shown with indentations in the bottom. As Paul tries to crack it on a kindling cracker with a wide blade you see the wood "bounce". The same blade is ground down on the side, lessening the cheeks, then retried. Attempt number two is a success!
Paul shares a couple other tips throughout his kindling cracker video.
I hope I don't make sparks fly like Paul does!
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