ROTBAND-PLUS on OCHSENKOPF Forestry Tools

Axes, hatchets and splitting mauls are subjected to considerable forces when striking wood. In addition to the actual direction of impact, lateral forces, vibrations and missed blows can place strain on the connection between the head and handle. The ROTBAND-PLUS system addresses these requirements through a combination of clamping, additional securing and handle protection.

The forestry tool design is used with different head shapes. These include tools for felling, delimbing and splitting. The head design, cutting-edge shape, weight and handle length determine the intended application. ROTBAND-PLUS complements this construction with an attachment system for the transition between the head and handle.

The solid handle protection sleeve protects the handle from damage if the head does not strike the wood precisely with the cutting edge or striking surface. The ring wedge distributes the clamping force, while the retaining plate and screw connection provide additional support for the connection. The system therefore enhances the tool’s design safety, but does not replace regular inspections of the head, handle, cutting edge and fastening components.

ROTBAND-PLUS is a handle attachment and protection system developed within the GEDORE Group. For OCHSENKOPF forestry tools, it has been adapted to the specific loads associated with axes, hatchets and splitting mauls.

The basic idea is to secure the connection between the head and wooden handle using several components. A ring wedge provides the expansion and clamping effect inside the handle. The retaining plate and screw connection complement this attachment. The red steel sleeve protects the handle and is also the visible characteristic of the system.

For forestry tools, ROTBAND-PLUS is not a substitute for selecting the right tool. A splitting maul, splitting axe, hatchet and felling axe are designed for different tasks. The attachment system helps ensure that the head and handle work together as reliably as possible during their intended use.

The ROTBAND-PLUS system for forestry tools essentially consists of the following components:

• Axe, hatchet or splitting-maul head: The shape and weight of the head determine whether the tool is suitable for felling, delimbing, splitting or combined applications.  
• Wooden handle: Hickory is commonly used for forestry tools. The shape and length of the handle are matched to the relevant tool type and intended movement.  
• Solid red steel handle protection sleeve: The sleeve protects the handle directly below the head against damage caused by missed blows and high mechanical loads.  
• Ring wedge: The ring wedge replaces the traditional flat wooden wedge as the central expansion element and distributes the clamping force more evenly throughout the handle.  
• Retaining plate: The plate rests against the end of the handle in the head area and supports the securing of the connection.  
• Retaining screw: The screw connection holds the retaining plate in place and complements the mechanical attachment.

ROTBAND-PLUS stabilizes the connection between the forestry tool head and wooden handle. The combination of ring wedge, retaining plate and screw connection reduces the risk of the head becoming loose during intended use. The more evenly distributed clamping force helps maintain a secure fit between the handle and head.

The handle protection sleeve protects the particularly highly stressed transition area. In the event of a missed blow, not only the cutting edge or striking surface may hit the wood; the area below the head can also be subjected to loads. The steel sleeve helps protect the handle against this type of damage.

The system therefore offers benefits in three areas: additional securing of the head-to-handle connection, mechanical protection for the handle and the potential to extend the tool’s service life. Actual safety also depends on using a suitable forestry tool, maintaining an undamaged cutting edge and handle, and applying the tool correctly.

Before every use, check the head, handle protection sleeve, retaining plate, screw connection and cutting edge. Tools with cracks, looseness, severe notches or other damage must not be used. After work, store the forestry tool dry, clean and protected from the weather.