A Stone Fork Has Multiple Uses
It may be called a stone fork, but handling stones is only one of several things this tool can do. The tines are spaced just the right distance apart so that it can be used to scoop all sorts of materials including: top soil, sand, stone-dust, etc. But the spacing of the tines also allows a “sifting” ability (with a shake of the tool), which is nice when you want to separate larger particles in a pile from the smaller, finer particles.
This photo sequence shows just one use of this great tool during the very common task of grading and picking up stones and debris.
The crew has used aluminum alloy rakes to grade the slope in preparation for sod. The raking process produces piles of debris and stones. In the picture to the left a stone fork is used to pick the piles up. To use the tool correctly (and convince yourself you’ll never use a shovel for this task again), lay the tines on the ground in front of the pile so they can slide flat. Then, push the fork under the pile of debris & stones.
Tip: Make sure your piles have been raked onto a clean graded area. This will enable the tines to slide smoothly under the pile.
While using the stone fork to pick up the debris & stones, occasionally turn it over and use the tips of the tines to rake and gather the remaining bits of the pile. After a while you’ll get comfortable with the fork and switch back and forth from these positions without thinking about it. Also, you’ll see how the tool helps you avoid scooping up good soil in the process.
I’m going to be showing more tools in use and in their different applications. It’s just amazing the work you can do using the right tool for a particular task. Let me know if you have other uses for a stone fork. Shoot me a comment below.
Randall Knapp
What good is it for yo to talk about a tool and then not list links to purchase one? Mine is from the 1930s and I am trying to find a source for a local vintage motorcross track so they can make thir work easier.
Roger
Randall,
These stone forks are not readily available anymore — and it’s been that way for some time now. Don’t ask me why. They’re indispensable as far as I’m concerned.
I just did a search and the closest thing I found is this source. You’ll see they do have a fork they’re calling a “stone fork”. And it looks pretty close to what we use to buy, but narrower — which is fine.
I would contact them and ask about “spacing of the tines”. They should be 1″ or less, IMO. And it looks like you then also order a handle from them.
Hope this helps.
Jim Greenfield
Hi Roger,
Your article on stone forks is the closest I have found to my search for one, except the photos can not be displayed to confirm exactly what you are describing. Is it possible to have them sent to me separately? Thank you so much.
My email is jkgreenfield@myctl.net, or text messaging can be to 406-499-2842.
Thanks again!! Jim Greenfield
Roger Bisbe
Hi Jim,
Sorry for the problems with my website. I’ve reached out to the web guy to help resolve these issues.
Yes, the stone fork can be difficult to find.
I also did a search online and found the particular stone fork we use (manufactured by Razor-Back) at a couple of suppliers, including HomeDepot. https://www.homedepot.com/pep/Razor-Back-10-Square-Tine-Ballast-Fork-76107/205352542
I found that it’s also referred to as a ballast fork in descriptions.
You’ll find that the more you use the fork the more the painted finish on the tines wears off and it will begin to slide easier on the soil as you scoop debris & stones up. You’ll also just get better at the feel of the tool and just how to position it for best performance.
Good luck!
Roger