How to Make an Axe Handle? Procedure and Wood Type
A strong axe handle is necessary whether you are using an axe for professional purposes or for playing a game. The strong and sharp axe head needs to make an axe better. The handle is also an essential element when it comes to the functionality of the axe.
Many reputable companies make the best quality wood handles. If not, make your axe handles with the wood you like. So, how to make an axe handle? Select the right kind of wood and follow step by step procedure.
In this article, you will go through some ideal woods that you can choose from to make an axe handle and a step-by-step procedure.
Different Types of Wood for Axe Handle
Suppose you are a beginner learning to make an axe handle for the first time. Then you must know that different kinds of wood make axe handles. The most commonly known wood is hickory. It is known for its unmatchable strength and power, that why it has a strong handle.
Ashwood and oak wood are considered second best for use as axe handles. Oak wood is also readily available in the market and is accessible to everyone. All woods have their kind of qualities; let’s have a brief look at each option.
| Wood Type | Features |
| Hickory | – Strong and durable |
| – Excellent shock absorption | |
| – Resistant to splitting and cracking | |
| – Good balance between flexibility and hardness | |
| Ash | – Tough and resilient |
| – Offers good shock absorption | |
| – Resistant to bending and splintering | |
| – Relatively lightweight | |
| Oak | – Hard and sturdy |
| – High resistance to wear and tear | |
| – Provides good grip | |
| – Less shock-absorbing compared to hickory or ash | |
| Hard Maple | – Dense and strong |
| – Resistant to abrasion and impact | |
| – Offers good overall durability | |
| – Less shock-absorbing compared to hickory or ash | |
| Elm | – Decent strength and flexibility |
| – Good shock absorption | |
| – Relatively lightweight | |
| – Prone to splitting and less durable than hickory | |
| Beech | – Strong and durable |
| – Offers good impact resistance | |
| – Slightly heavier than other woods | |
| – Less common for axe handles compared to hickory/ash |
Making Axe Handle-Procedure
Once you have chosen a suitable wood for your axe handle, it’s time to proceed with the procedure. First of all, gather all the materials and tools required for the procedure of axe making.
1. Materials
You will need high-quality wood, sandpaper, and Linseed oil, according to your choice. As for tools, you will need a band saw, spokeshave, chisel, carving knife, files, rasps, sand block, drill with drill bits, and vise.
2. Cutting the Blank
First, you need to cut a blank using a bandsaw or a coping saw; the blank should be slightly longer than the length of your desired handle. The extra length will give you the margin for mistakes or adjustments during the finishing process.
3. Shaping the Handle
Once you cut the blank, secure it on the working bench or vice. You will begin to shape the handle using a spokeshave or drawknife. Carefully remove the extra wood to achieve the desired handle profile.
Your priority must be ergonomics and a comfortable grip while handling the axe. Work slowly to avoid any mistakes and maintain regular symmetry.
| Axe Handle Shape | Qualities |
| Straight | Traditional design, classic, familiar feel, the versatility of techniques, comfortable hand positions |
| Curved | Enhance swing efficiency, power generation, better grip and control, and natural motion to user swing. |
| Tapered | Better grip and control, reduced chance of axe slipping, price and control cuts. |
| Ergonomic | Reduce strain on the user’s hand, minimize fatigue, and support long usage hours. |
| Flared | Wider grip at the bottom, increased stability, two-handed grip support, better leverage, ideal for heavy chopping |
4. Refining the Shape
Use chisels, carving knives, files, and rasps to further refine your handle’s shape. Before mounting, you must make sure that there are no uneven or rough edges; also, there should be a consistent diameter along the length of the handle. Take your time to bring out the delicate and proper shape.
5. Drilling the Eye
Choose a drill bit slightly larger than the eye of the axe handle and drill a hole in the top of the handle. The hole must be in perfect depth to securely accommodate the axe head’s heat. Measure the depth by placing the axe head against the handle and marking the desired depth on the drill with bit tape.
6. Fitting the Axe Head
Now that the eye of the handle is finalized, insert the axe head into the eye, ensuring a proper snug fit. Use a mallet or hammer with scraped wood to gently tap the head into place. Avoid striking the handle directly; it can cause an impact on the wood that might result in splitting.
7. Finishing Touches
There must be a seamless transition between the axe handle and head; continue refining and shaping until you feel like li. Use sandpaper with increasing grits to smooth the surface.
Use Linseed oil or another suitable product as a wood finishing product. This will enhance the protection of the handle. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the application amount and drying time. Your target must be well prepared too for axe throwing, so check how to soften wood for axe throwing for better axe performance.
Conclusion
After learning how to make an axe handle, you should know that crafting your axe handles can be rewarding. It helps you create a perfect handle design complimenting your axe-throwing style. It will be comfortable for you to grip it. Your handmade handle will help you to stand the test of time and game. So, choose a perfect wood and start your axe handle project.
Among all the handle shapes, which one compliments your axe-throwing style?
