Hand Tools Flashcards
7 cards from real S-130 practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Hand Tools flashcards as text
What is the correct method for sharpening the axe blade of a Pulaski tool in the field?
Answer: Use a flat mill file stroked away from the edge at a consistent bevel angle
A flat mill file stroked away from the edge at the manufacturer's bevel angle safely restores sharpness without overheating or damaging the steel.
Which characteristic of a hand tool handle indicates it needs replacement before the tool is used?
Answer: Handle is loose in the eye of the tool head
A loose head can fly off during a swing, creating a projectile hazard; the tool must be retired from service until the head is properly secured or the handle replaced.
In the context of S-130 fireline construction, what role does the 'scratch line' serve?
Answer: A preliminary line quickly scraped down to mineral soil as a starting point
A scratch line is a rapidly constructed initial control line scraped to mineral soil that is later widened and improved into a full fireline.
When using a McLeod to improve a fireline, the flat scraping blade should be used to accomplish what task?
Answer: Scrape surface fuels and duff down to bare mineral soil
The flat hoe side of the McLeod scrapes away surface litter and organic duff layers to expose bare mineral soil, which does not burn.
Which of the following best describes the 'cold-trailing' technique performed with hand tools?
Answer: Carefully feeling the fireline with bare hands or tools to detect any remaining heat
Cold-trailing involves systematically feeling along the fireline—by hand or tool—to locate and extinguish any remaining heat before patrol ends.
A firefighter notices the adze blade of a Pulaski has a mushroomed, peened edge. What is the appropriate action?
Answer: Tag the tool out of service and report it to a supervisor
A mushroomed blade edge indicates material fatigue and can produce dangerous metal fragments; the tool must be removed from service.
What is the purpose of 'trenching' with a shovel during a wildland fire operation?
Answer: Cutting a trench below a burning slope to catch rolling debris and embers
Trenching below a burning slope catches rolling burning material and embers before they can start new fires downslope.