Caring for a GB handle?

[jmacdoug]

I recently picked up a Gransfors wildlife hatchet (awesome by the way) and I was just wondering about caring for the handle. I understand it has been treated with linseed oil and beeswax from the factory already, so I don't know if I should oil it regularly with something or just leave it.

Any tips?

Also, I have been using it in pretty dirty conditions and I'm noticing dirt stuck in some of the cavities in the grain. Does this matter in terms of the longevity of the handle? I have mostly been a knife guy and I'm just getting into axes, so any advice is appreciated.

 

[foxx]

Maybe once or twice a year put on some BLO, and wipe it off. You won't need much, add a touch to the top of the eye/wedge, but not much here either. The dirt shouldn't matter so much, call it character.
Of course, don't leave it out in the weather, sun, or shed. I don't leave my nice wood handled tools out in the garage or building, where the temps aren't regulated. Those buildings are very hot in the summer and very cold in the winter. All the old tools out there have shrunken handles that are somewhat cracked from useless wear and tear caused by neglect and weather.

 

[coloradowildman]

I started using Howard's Feed N Wax on my axe handles last year for general upkeep, linseed if its really dried out followed by the Feed N Wax. It's been great so far.