Peav

Peav refers to a type of lever tool used in logging and lumberjacking. It consists of a long metal bar with a sharp, downward-curving hook or claw at one end and a sturdy handle at the other. The hook is designed to grip and lift logs, allowing them to be moved more easily.

The peav is typically used to roll or pivot logs, especially in situations where they might be waterlogged, partially submerged, or otherwise difficult to handle with bare hands. The leverage provided by the long handle enables the user to exert significant force, making it an effective tool for maneuvering heavy timber. Its use is particularly common on rivers and streams during log drives, where logs were historically floated downstream to sawmills.

The design of the peav allows for a combination of lifting and rolling actions. The hook digs into the wood, providing a secure grip, while the handle acts as a lever. By applying pressure to the handle, the user can lift one side of the log or roll it along the ground or water surface. The tool requires a degree of skill to operate effectively and safely, as a misplaced grip or excessive force could lead to injury. While modern machinery has largely replaced manual log handling in many areas, the peav remains a recognizable and historically significant tool in the forestry industry.