Podone y podadora
The podone (singular podón) of Spain, also known as podadora, are as varied in shape as those of Italy. They fall into two main types, those that would not appear unfamiliar to English eyes,with a single or double blade in line with the axis, and those that follow the 'Mediterranean' pattern, with a cutting edge at right angles to the axis, and a long and narrow back blade. These latter were used for vine pruning, and the shape was common in Southern France, Italy, Sicily and Greece (where the author believes the shape originated).
Although the word podadora (also spelled podadera or podadeira) is given as the dictionary equivalent of billhook, the word has acquired a more general usage in Spanish, is now used for all types of pruning tool from secateurs to motorised strimmers, brush cutters hedge cutters and even chainsaws. The word podón is more commonly used for a billhook, with several other dialect words such as podão, podoa and podal being used in the regions near Portugal. Other terms are also used, such as hacha de podar (pruning axe) - or hocino (small sickle) or corquete for the small hooks used in vineyards to harvest the grapes.
A typical single bladed podón from Girona, in north east Spain
A double bladed version, not unlike those found in England
A wine pruning podadora from the Chacoli wine district in Alava region in the Basque region
This model combines elements of both types - and may possibly be regarded as a transitional shape.
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