Tools are found in the collection holdings of most museums of history and culture. They reflect the work and handcraft of past centuries. Defining tools and their function always presents a challenge as a result of their diverse tasks or special uses. This fully illustrated compendium deals with three groups of tools, and explains their use and history: axes and hatchets; files, rasps, and scrapers; and picks, hooks, rakes, and hoes. The book thus proves to be an indispensable resource for inventorying collection objects and is simultaneously a knowledgeable compendium for everyone who is interested in historical and modern types and forms of hand tools.