If you’re new to the woodworking game, then you may have never even heard of a peavey. That’s okay; not many are familiar with this log-moving tool since it’s mainly used in lumberyards and sawmills. If you’d like to save a fortune on the stock by prepping your logs, then you should consider getting a peavey.
What is a Peavey?
Peaveys and cant hooks look a lot alike. If not for the metal spike protruding from a peavey, the two would be indistinguishable from each other.
The main components of a peavey are its metal spike and dog hook. The metal spike pokes into the outer bark while the dog hook grabs hold of the log. With these two pieces in place, repositioning and/or lifting the log is a simple process of lifting the tool upward while dragging it to the right spot. Peaveys are mainly used to shift the position of disorganized logs.
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Our Recommended Peaveys in 2023
5) Felled | Log Peavy
- [Roll Wood Cants and Beams]: Use the Felled Peavey Logging Tool to move large logs, cants, and beams; Ideal...
- [Solid Hold on Logs]: Get a solid hold on logs up to 15.5 inches (39.4 cm) in diameter; Cant hook log roller...
- [Built to Last]: Constructed of heavy-duty carbon steel spike and logging hook and wooden shaft for maximum...
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4) Woodchuck Dual Peavey Point and Cant Hook All in 1 Tool
- Peavey point retracts into the handle and helps with re-positioning log ends or freeing frozen logs
- Rolls logs up to 30 inches, lifts up to 20 inches
- Can easily add optional log jack stand that slips over the peavey point with no tools required
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3) Ironton Wooden Handle Peavey
- Durable hardwood handle
- Long-lasting drawn carbon steel spike and hook
- Handle is ergonomically shaped with a lacquer finish
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2) Woodchuck Tool DualPro Log Lifter
- The Everything Tool from Woodchuck Tool Inc. combines the Dual and Jack with the Rear Foot and Toe Lift from...
- Lifts logs from 5 to 20 inches, rolls logs up to 30 inches. Dual feet keep handle from digging into the ground
- Removable front jack with retractable peavey point; Toe lift to remove hook from log when re-positioning
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1) Woodchuck Dual & Hookeron Combo
- Bundle and save! Combo includes BOTH the Woodchuck Dual AND Woodchuck Hookeroon.
- Woodchuck Tools is the first to offer a combination peavey & cant hook in a single tool with their dual! This...
- The Woodchuck Hookeroon is the single function sibling of the Skidderoon. It features the same aluminum handle...
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ultimate Peavey Hook Buying Guide
Like any tool, finding a reliable peavey isn’t all that difficult provided, you know what to look for. In this brief guide, we’ll go over what sort of things to watch out for when out shopping for a log-moving peavey.
Material
There are only a few components of a peavey, so everything must be made of durable materials. The hook and spike are typically made of steel and have an anti-corrosive coating of paint there’s no problem there. As for the handle, it can be made of either steel or a type of hardwood, preferably oak or hickory. Choosing between the handle type is purely a matter of personal preference.
Length
Peaveys, like cant hooks, can measure in at anywhere between 30 and 60 inches. Longer handles are generally preferable over shorter ones since they offer much more leverage for moving and lifting logs, especially with the help of a lever or T-bar. However, the ideal length of a peavey depends on what you’re comfortable with.
Log Size Capacity
Here is where you need to pay careful attention to the peavey. Not all peavey hooks are made to lift and move the same-sized logs. Some have longer, rounder hooks that are ideal for logs as thick as 36 inches, whereas others are stubbier and used for logs of between 2 and 12 inches in width. We’d like to say that a larger hook is a blanket solution for small and large lumber, but that’s not the case. Make sure you know what size stock you regularly work with before settling on a peavey.
Grip
Your focus when shopping for the right peavey shouldn’t just be centered on the hook-end of the tool but also the grip side. Peaveys are manually operated tools without motors and other gizmos. Also, they’re made for moving large logs of up to several hundred pounds in weight. To get the most work out of your peavey, you need to be as comfortable as possible, meaning that the tool should have a cushioned or rubber grip that prevents slipping and sliding as well as calloused hands.
Spike
Pay close attention to the spike that’s found on the end of the peavey. Most spikes measure in at 3 inches in length, though you may find others that are shorter or longer. Some models even have extendable spikes that give you control over how deep each poke will penetrate the surface of the log. Please exercise caution when using a peavey since its spike is extremely dangerous and could easily penetrate gloves and clothing.
Assembly
Since peaveys are mainly used outdoors, the tool must be weatherproof. The slightest bit of residual water left on the hook may cause rusting; unless it’s coated in an anti-corrosive paint or covering, then you should be good to go. However, you should also be wary of the nuts and bolts used to put the tool together. Most peaveys don’t use stainless steel bolts, so they may end up rusting over time. Either find one that uses stainless steel parts or purchase your rust-free nut bolts later on.
T-Bar (Lever)
Some peaveys come with a detachable T-Bar that provides extra leverage when lifting and/or rolling logs. Some users find the T-Bar more obstructive than helpful, but it all comes down to personal preference. If your peavey of choice doesn’t include a T-Bar, you may be able to purchase a compatible bar separately. Make sure the manufacturer sells T-bars along with other helpful accessories if you’d like to get the most out of your peavey.
Peavey FAQs
How does a peavey differ from a cant hook?
Due to their larger log-grasping capacity, peaveys are mainly used to move logs right after felling and sizing logs. The spike makes it possible to roll larger logs in preparation for the milling process. Cant hooks are mainly used to move pre-dimensioned logs.
Can I use a peavey in place of a cant hook, and vice versa?
Although peaveys are larger, the two tools have some overlap in regards to log-grabbing capacity, usually between 12 and 24 inches. If this is the case, you may want to consider using a cant hook in place of a peavey since the metal piece on end will cause less damage to the log’s inner bark and sapwood.
Can this peavey lift or move #-pound logs
Because long handles and T-bars offer a ton of leverage, peaveys don’t have a maximum weight capacity. As long as the peavey can grab hold of the log (see Log Size Capacity), it should roll and lift the log effortlessly.
Closing Remarks
With a peavey, you can save a ton of time and money when moving logs. By lifting the handle after grabbing hold of the log, you won’t need to strain your muscles to reposition the log so you won’t need to schedule as many appointments with your chiropractor.
Like cant hooks, peaveys are a basic tool with very few moving parts. This makes it practically impossible to find a bad model, but there are still several points to consider to find the best, longest-lasting peavey for your dollar. The durability of a peavey relies heavily on the materials of the tool and fasteners. Steel with a corrosion-proof coating of pants or plastic will ensure that the peavey will last you a lifetime.