Piikkilanka

Piikkilanka, meaning barbed wire in Finnish, is a type of steel fencing wire constructed with sharp edges or points arranged at intervals along the strands. It is commonly used to create inexpensive fences. The name "piikkilanka" directly translates to "thorn wire" or "spike wire."

The invention of piikkilanka in the 19th century revolutionized fencing. Before its widespread adoption, wooden fences or stone walls were the primary methods of containment. Piikkilanka offered a more cost-effective and efficient solution, especially for enclosing large areas of land. Its primary purpose is to deter livestock from crossing a boundary.

The manufacturing process involves twisting two strands of wire together and then inserting sharp barbs at regular intervals. These barbs can be made from single pieces of wire or from four-pointed pieces that are then pressed onto the main strands. The spacing and sharpness of the barbs can vary depending on the intended use.

Piikkilanka has been employed in various contexts beyond agriculture. It has been used for military purposes, such as creating defensive barriers, and in some cases, for security fencing around prisons or sensitive areas. Due to its sharp nature, handling piikkilanka requires caution. Safety measures are often recommended during installation and maintenance to prevent injury. The effectiveness of piikkilanka lies in its ability to inflict pain or injury upon contact, thus discouraging passage.