Peavey (tool)

A peavey or peavey hook is a logging tool consisting of a handle, generally from 30 to 50 inches long (0.75 to 1.25 m), with a metal spike protruding from the end. The spike is rammed into a log, then a hook (at the end of an arm attached to a pivot a short distance up the handle) grabs the log at a second location. Once engaged, the handle gives the operator leverage to roll or slide or float the log to a new position.

The peavey was named for blacksmith Joseph Peavey of Stillwater, Maine, who invented the tool as a refinement to the Cant Hook (also known as a cant dog) in the 1850s. Many lumberjacks use the terms interchangeably, though a peavey will have a spike in the end of the handle, and a cant dog will have a blunt end or possibly small teeth for friction.

The Peavey Manufacturing Co. is still located in Maine and manufactures several variations.

References

* [http://www.ruralheritage.com/logging_camp/peavey.htm Cant Hook or Peavey?]
* [http://www.peaveymfg.com/index.html Peavey Manufacturing Co.]