Almost too pretty to use...

[TRfromMT]

First post here from a new guy (to axes). You all are a bad influence(!) and I finally bought my first axe head (thank you @Agent_H). A Keen Kutter boys axe head is on its way.

About me... Over the past few years I've done a couple hundred custom knife handle projects. I am a 3rd generation woodworker and knife handles are pretty much my hobby. I don't do the steel, and I don't do synthetic handles. Just wood. I figure it's time to try my hand at making an axe handle and hanging it myself.

My projects tend to be almost too pretty to use, (although I love seeing guys use my knife handles). Here's an example of a piece from a couple years ago...

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I really like the combination of walnut and maple, and I am already imagining a 28" walnut handle, maple wedge, maple and mosaic pin inlay in the end of the handle.


But I'd love to see the wall-hangers out there. Please help me with some "almost too pretty to use" inspiration photos.

Post 'em up!

 

[Hickory n steel]

This is my idea of almost too pretty to use, but it's only a wall hanger because the head belonged to my great grandfather and the vintage handle is actually split but too nicely shaped for me to scrap.