Professionals and Amateurs Together

Riving Wood

Question

What is the simplest way to rive wood?—Bill Newbold

Answer

Al Breed replies: Use a froe and a big mallet made from a piece of firewood. Keep a hatchet handy to cut fibers that are crossing over the split, and some wooden wedges to help the split progress.

Guy Senneville replies: Riving is a simple process to start with. A froe and mallet are the proper tools. Following the grain, split the wood to the desired size.

Tags: Tools, Wood