Axe Handles

[ajrand]

What is the best wood for a user axe or hatchet? How do you care for the handle to insure long and reliable service?

 

[Cliff Stamp]

A tough wood like Hickory, with a clean vertical grain. The handle can be soaked in boiled linseed oil to keep from drying out and cracking. The handle just under the head can be wrapped with leather or similar to protect the wood from accidental impacts.

-Cliff

 

[ajrand]

Thanks Cliff. How does osage orange work as a handle? Is it a tough as hickory? How about ash?

 

[L Hansen]

I agree with Cliff. I have started useing Hickory
for my heavy users. Since a good portion of my hawks are hammer poles the wood needs to be able to handle shock along with been strong. After staining I submerge the handle in marine Watco for 30 minutes then wipe off and let dry for 8-10 hours.
Lonnie
www.lchansen.com

 

[Cliff Stamp]

Ash is also used, though generally not as well thought of as Hickory which is a standard. No experience with osage orange. You might want to ask on a dedicated wood working group. Drop Jim Aston an email as well.

-Cliff

 

[mete]

Osage orange went by the french name -bois d'arc -bow wood. It is fairly dense and resilient and flexible. Should be fine for hatchet handle.

 

[ajrand]

I just ordered a couple of custom hatchets, a single bit and a Nessmuk styled double bit. Decided to go with the osage orange as I like the look of it. Now for the long wait!