Information relayed from Chief Chris Finn

Sawyers,

Concerning the wedges with the metal strike plate (1st attachment). While felling an elm 18” DBH, 4′-5′ back lean, I did not hit the wedge strike plate flush causing it to break off (2nd attachment). I looked at the wedge it appeared serviceable (less the strike plate) and like any other of the plastic type wedges we use. The tree was set-up and ready to go, so I continued to drive the wedge. Huge mistake, when I struck the wedge the next time the recoil of the ax was violent and unexpected, literally it was all I could do to avoid/stop the ax, narrowly missing the right side of my head. If you find these type of wedges with the strike plate missing remove them from service, and notify me (please), the second attachment will help you to identify. With the strike plate missing there will be a thin piece of metal embedded in the center of the wedge. Thanks for your time.

Randall Mitchell
USDA Forest Service
Land Between The Lakes NRA
Golden Pond KY
cell 270-748-5022