koskettimat

Koskettimat is a traditional Finnish device used for sawing wood, particularly for splitting firewood or kindling. It consists of a pair of handles connected to a pivoting frame that holds a thin, flat saw or adze.

The word "koskettima" can be literally translated to "saw-jerk" in English, which refers to the motion used to operate the device. The user would grip one handle in each hand, then apply a sawing motion to the wood, using the pivoting action of the frame to generate leverage and improve cutting efficiency.

Koskettimat is often handmade from wood, and may be decorated with carvings or other ornamental designs. Its design and construction have remained largely unchanged over the centuries, reflecting the simplicity and effectiveness of traditional Finnish craftsmanship. While modern power tools have largely supplanted koskettimat in many contexts, the device remains popular among those who value the unique challenges and rewards of traditional woodworking techniques.

Koskettimat is also sometimes referred to as a "Urdoples" or "nesting log saw", due to its use in processing whole logs into smaller, more manageable pieces for use in fireplaces or woodstoves. Its use is still practiced in many Finnish communities, where it is often passed down through generations as a traditional skill.

The use of koskettimat has also been studied by anthropologists interested in traditional Finnish culture and technology. It remains a tangible link to the region's rich history and a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of its people.