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

• A. Chainsaw and rope
• B. Hammer and chisel
• C. Pulaski and McLeod (or shovel)
• D. Rake and hoe

Answer: (C)

Constructing a handline relies on both removing fuels and shaping the ground so the fire can’t easily cross the line. The Pulaski combines an axe for chopping brush and roots with an adze for digging, making it versatile for cutting through vegetation and breaking through soil as you widen the line. The McLeod functions as a rake and hoe: the rake side clears loose litter and duff, while the hoe side helps loosen and move soil to widen and smooth the fireline. This pairing lets you both cut through vegetation and clean and sculpt the line in a single, efficient workflow. If the McLeod isn’t available, a shovel can perform similar digging and smoothing tasks, but the traditional combination of a Pulaski and McLeod is favored for covering the full range of line-building tasks quickly and effectively.