S-130 Hand Tools 3

Question 1

What is the correct method for sharpening the axe blade of a Pulaski tool in the field?

Accepted Answer

Use a flat mill file stroked away from the edge at a consistent bevel angle

Answer

A flat mill file stroked away from the edge at the manufacturer's bevel angle safely restores sharpness without overheating or damaging the steel.

Question 2

Which characteristic of a hand tool handle indicates it needs replacement before the tool is used?

Accepted Answer

Handle is loose in the eye of the tool head

Answer

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.

Question 3

In the context of S-130 fireline construction, what role does the 'scratch line' serve?

Accepted Answer

A preliminary line quickly scraped down to mineral soil as a starting point

Answer

A scratch line is a rapidly constructed initial control line scraped to mineral soil that is later widened and improved into a full fireline.

Question 4

When using a McLeod to improve a fireline, the flat scraping blade should be used to accomplish what task?

Accepted Answer

Scrape surface fuels and duff down to bare mineral soil

Answer

The flat hoe side of the McLeod scrapes away surface litter and organic duff layers to expose bare mineral soil, which does not burn.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the 'cold-trailing' technique performed with hand tools?

Accepted Answer

Carefully feeling the fireline with bare hands or tools to detect any remaining heat

Answer

Cold-trailing involves systematically feeling along the fireline—by hand or tool—to locate and extinguish any remaining heat before patrol ends.

(S-130) Wildland Firefighting Training Certification Practice Test

(S-130) Wildland Firefighting Training Certification Practice Test

S-130 Hand Tools 3