Käsikärryjä

Käsikärryjä, also known as wheelbarrows in English, are simple hand-propelled wheeled vehicles. They are primarily used for transporting loads by an individual. The basic design consists of a single wheel at the front, a trough or platform to hold the material, handles at the rear for pushing and steering, and two legs or supports at the back to keep it stable when stationary.

The wheelbarrow has a long history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient China as early as the 2nd century AD. It was later introduced to Europe, becoming a common tool in agriculture, construction, and gardening. Modern käsikärryjä are typically made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, though older or simpler models might use wood. The single wheel at the front allows for leverage, making it easier to lift and move heavy or bulky materials than carrying them by hand.

The operation of a käsikärry involves loading the material into the trough, then lifting the handles to balance the load on the wheel. The user then pushes and steers the wheelbarrow to its destination. The legs provide stability when the user stops to load or unload. Käsikärryjä are indispensable tools for many manual tasks, offering a practical solution for transporting dirt, sand, gravel, tools, plants, and other items over short distances. Their simple construction and ease of use have ensured their continued relevance.