What type of tool is a McLeod?

A McLeod is specifically designed as a combination tool that incorporates both a hoe and a rake. This dual-functionality makes it particularly effective for fire management tasks, especially in wildland firefighting scenarios. The hoe side is used for digging and turning over soil or vegetation, while the rake side is invaluable for clearing debris and creating fire lines by removing combustible materials. The ability to have two tools in one helps firefighters work more efficiently in controlling fires in difficult terrains.

Understanding the design and uses of a McLeod provides important context in firefighting procedures, particularly in areas prone to wildfires where managing vegetation is essential to containing fire spread. Tools like the McLeod reflect the need for versatile equipment in emergency response, allowing firefighters to adapt to various environmental challenges.