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.