Hedgelaying Tools
The traditional tools used by the hedger were the billhook and axe. The billhook was a tool used widely in the countryside for various tasks, and many different patterns evolved. The village blacksmith would have forged these tools and his work reflected the preferences of the rural labourers he supplied. Over time, distinct patterns became associated with the district where they evolved. Some were lightweight and short while others were longer and heavier.
As tools became mass produced, renowned manufacturers offered the more popular patterns in a range of sizes and weights. Some of the easiest to recognise billhooks include the Staffordshire, Devon & Yorkshire patterns, all originated on the forge of the blacksmith in their retrospective counties and went on to be mass produced in the last century by tool makers such as Elwell.
Today in the UK, many collectors and restorers will sell refurbished billhooks and they can often be found in town markets or fairs. Most agricultural stores will sell new billhooks suitable for hedgelaying.
Suffolk Billhook
The Suffolk hook is a lightweight example of the tool.
It can be used all day without causing fatigue in the user and can be used for the pleaching and pruning of hedgerow plants. The Suffolk billhook is most effective for hedgelaying when used in conjunction with an axe.
Yorkshire Billhook
The Yorkshire is the heavyweight of the billhook patterns.
It’s broad body, long handle and double edged head see it suitable for both the heavy work of clearing the hedgerow of dead and dying wood prior to laying as well as the more delicate practice of pleaching and laying.
Kent Pattern Axe (2lb)
A lightweight axe is an asset in the hedge.
It can be used for all tasks involved in the successful laying of a hedge and is particularly useful amongst dense growth where it’s smaller profile is easily used by a gloved hand.
Heavy Side Axe (3-5lb)
A heavy axe is required for dealing with larger trees and sections of deadwood within the hedgerow.
Larger stems and semi mature trees can be pleached with these heavy tools by the experienced user. An asset in the hedgers armoury.