How To Use A Scythe

Here is a video of me showing folks how to use a scythe to cut grass around my solar panels.  A scythe is a simple tool from a time long ago.  It is mainly used to cut grasses and create hay and fodder for animals.  In my case I use it to keep up the field around my solar panels so that they don’t become too shaded and then not produce enough power for me.

A few tips on using a scythe:

  • Keep the blade sharp and know that you’ll be sharpening it often as you cut
  • Since you’ll be sharpening along the way, keep a wet stone with you.  I use one on my belt
  • Get ready for a work out because it’s hard work!

Why use a scythe:

  • It’s good exercise
  • It can help cut grasses without the use of fossil fuels
  • It is much more quiet that a lawn mower
  • I find it meditative work
  • Its cheaper in the long run

The basic movement when using a scythe:

Adjust the handles so your wrists are comfortable and you hands have a good grip with no strain.  Allow you arms to slack and let the scythe natural fall into place in your hands.  Take a wide stance with one foot in front of the other.  The rotate at the hips back and forth for cutting.

2 Comments
  1. Good video where you buy your scythe?

  2. Wet grass or dry? With all the rain my grass is too wet for the mower and is getting too long. I have a bush and a grass blade, wondering if one will be better than the other for dense wet grass.

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