I have an ash branch, about 5 cm in diameter and 2 meters long that I would like to make smooth. Right now there's still the bark on it. I wonder what tool would be easiest to use? I would like to use a hand tool, not a machine. I was thinking a rasp, but I don't know which kind is best. Which tool do you think would be best to use?
Smoothing an ash branch
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I guess would be a draw knife. I'm guessing you are trying to make a walking stick/staff. I did one once just using a knife while at the camp site and that was a pain but once done I just sanded a bit and then put on some shellac and it looked pretty good.
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The bark can be removed with any sharp tool. I recently removed bark from some black walnut and cherry log sections.
I used a hand chisel and a rubber mallet.
For this small diameter a sharp strong pocket knife should also work.
Once the bark is removed, you may be surprised at how smooth the sap wood may be. Give it a try.
A traditional tool for removing wood from a branch is a drawknife, or spokeshave if you have them.
A rasp will work, but then you may not like the texture of the surface left by the rasp.
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Yes, I would put such a branch in a woodworking vise. If you do not have one, then use a clamp to hold it against a bench or table.
Where are you located? Brands of pocket knives and stores are different outside the US.
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A draw knife would be the tool of choice. If a pocket knife was to be used I'd be reaching for my U.S.A.made Schrade sp7. They are out of production in the USA but available on ebay.
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