Which pair of tools is traditionally used to construct handlines in wildland fire operations?

• A. Chainsaw and rake
• B. Pulaski and McLeod (or shovel)
• C. Axe and hammer
• D. Hoe and trowel

Answer: (B)

Constructing an effective handline relies on tools that both cut through fuels and clear debris to expose mineral soil. The Pulaski combines an axe blade with an adze, so it can chop roots, fell small vegetation, and dig into the soil. The McLeod functions as a rake and hoe, letting you rake away duff and surface fuels and scrape down to mineral soil to create a clean, defendable edge. Together, these tools allow a crew to quickly cut and clear a robust handline, even in tough ground, without heavy power equipment. A shovel is sometimes used in place of the McLeod’s rake/hoe function, but the traditional pairing remains Pulaski with McLeod. The other options don’t provide the same combination of cutting roots and clearing soil efficiently for handline construction.