Crash Axe?

edweeks · #1 02-13-2008, 01:51 PM

A friend recently chastised me for not having a crash axe available in the plane (-7A) in case I needed to break out the canopy to escape after a tip-over. I searched the posts here for "crash axe" and didn't find anything. I have three questions: 1) do most of you (especially those flying -A's) carry a crash axe or similar devise in the cockpit; 2) can you offer a recommendation of one that is of suitable size, shape and weight to serve its purpose; and 3) where do you store it to be out of the way but accessible when needed.

Thanks,
Ed

lorne green · #2 02-13-2008, 02:20 PM

I don't think it's a bad idea for all low wing aircraft to carry along a device to help one break out through the canopy should you end up upside down. Not all situations alow you to slide the canopy back.

Rick6a · #3 02-13-2008, 03:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by edweeks

.......carry a crash axe or similar devise in the cockpit; 2) can you offer a recommendation of one that is of suitable size, shape and weight to serve its purpose; and 3) where do you store it to be out of the way but accessible when needed.......Thanks, Ed

Here is an answer to all three of your questions. Click on the link and scroll to bottom of the page for further details. My -6A is fitted with a Bubble Buster and the weight penalty for carrying it is negligible.

http://www.safeair1.com/index.htm

Ron Lee · #4 02-13-2008, 03:19 PM

http://tinyurl.com/2rkrhu

But don't usually have it in the plane. I stay off of grass strips, especially ones infested with gophers.

morlino · #5 02-13-2008, 03:22 PM

http://www.rvproject.com/cracker.html

hevansrv7a · #6 02-13-2008, 03:55 PM

My passenger (rt side) stick is removable and usually removed and carried alongside the seat. I think it would do the job. Maybe I'll sharpen it.

mbell · #7 02-13-2008, 04:02 PM

I bought an F-4 Phantom canopy knife on Ebay a few years ago. They appear from time to time. It clips into a holder that usually comes with the knife.

Mike

Geico266 · #8 02-13-2008, 04:12 PM

Leatherman works for me.

cawmd82 · #9 02-13-2008, 04:33 PM

Has anyone ever actually broken out of an RV with any of these type tools?

Might be an interesting exercise if someone was replacing a canopy or had an otherwise wrecked airplane.

mannanj · #10 02-13-2008, 04:46 PM

I have a small camping hatchet secured in my -8. It is also part of my emergency survival gear.