Best handle length for ax

W

Wapiti

Joined
Sep 25, 1999
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I recently picked up a medium sized double bit Collins ax head from my local scrap yard.
It was in pretty rough shape, beat up and rusty, but I am cleaning it up, and would like to haft it but am not sure what length handle to put on it.
It is 3 1/2" by 7" and weighs slightly over 2lbs.

Any recommendations?

Also, if you have a favorite source for handles, I would love to hear it.
I usually get all my handles from a local loggers supply shop.

I have several axes and hatchets, but like the size of this one, and look forward to finishing it and putting it to use.

Thanks.
 
i usually like my handles a tad on the long side...i have taken it to the extreme before (a 24" handle on a 7.5oz head) but i think that for me use a couple of extra inches adds enough extra leverage to make it worth it, without adding signifigant weight.

i'm no expert with double bits, but on a 2 pound single bit that would normally be around 24" i think. you could either hang it short, for a compact, powerful chopper...or you could hang it longer for a light, fast chopper.
 
Do you think you will be taking it on trips by backpack, horsepack, raft/canoe, etc. or will it be kept around the house/truck?

DancesWithKnives
 
Here's a chance to use some of my book-learning!

I had the same question. As it turns out, there is a real answer. I got mine via Mors Kochanski's Bushcraft, though I've since read it elsewhere.

If you hold the axe head in your the palm of your hand and then let it rest down at your side, like a guy would carry books at school, the length of the handle should be from the axe head to your arm pit.

There ya go!
 
With a 2lb axe head I would suggest in the 26"-28" range. I have a marbles camp axe sitting on my workbench right now with a 2lb. double bit head. That is my plan.
have fun and experiment.

As far as a favorite source, I have nothing for you. I plan on making mine from scratch.

Paul
 
Sounds like it is a "Cruiser" head and most factory made Cruiser handles are 28-inches long. The full size double-bit handle is normally 36-inches long. If you aren't making a handle from scratch you are pretty much limited to the lengths considered standard for that pattern of axe.
 
Axe length varies with use. For lighter heads, I prefer about a 28" handle. For felling and double bits, 30" plus is the way to go. In general, the longer the handle, the safer the axe-type (hatchet, axe, maul) tool is. Right now, I have 3 gransfors, an Iltis, a Brian Andrews Hudson Bay, a full-size Fiskars, and two gerber hatchets. All have different handle lengths and all are for different purposes.

For handles, check out Iltis. I think they sell replacements and they are great American Hickory. Very tough and not cost prohibitive.
 
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