This is the tool used by colonial settlers to split shingles, shakes, and lumber for homes in early America. Today the shingle froe is still a primary tool in many traditional woodworking projects which require riving, like Windsor chair spindles and spoons. Simply pound the blade of the froe into the end of a short log with a mallet or maul. Then pull back on the handle to split off a slice of the wood with the grain. Handle is 18" long. Blade is 15" long and 2" deep. Roughly finished. Made in the USA.