Gransfors Bruk Hunter's Axe - Initial Handle Care

[Wyoming Shooter]

Gentlemen - I just purchased a Gransfors Bruk Hunter's Axe. The handle is hickory. What, if anything, do you recommend for treatment of the handle? Some sort of preservative? Thanks very much. ELN

 

[Alberta Ed]

I use tung oil on my ax and wooden knife handles. Lasts longer in wet conditions than linseed oil. Sand off any finish and rub in 2-3 coats, allowing it to dry in between.

 

[Square_peg]

I like to use a couple coats of BLO followed by a couple coats of tung oil. I think the boiled linseed oil penetrates better. But the tung oil certainly leaves a nicer finish - like furniture.

 

[Square_peg]

What sort of finish does it have on it now?

 

[craft]

My fav is this brand of Danish oil, http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=45105&cat=1,190,42942

 

[garry3]

Hi Shooter, The handles come with a oil finish. All you need to do is add some linseed oil now and then.

 

[Wyoming Shooter]

Gentlemen - Thank you very much for the advice. "The Axe Book", which accompanied the axe, doesn't state what finish is on the handle. It felt a bit dry to me. I applied a couple coats of tung oil. It may make no practical difference but, it makes me feel better. The axe itself is old school cool. It should come in handy for the next season of "Vikings". "The Axe Book" is fascinating. Gransfors Bruk obviously takes great pride in producing tools in the traditional way. Again, thank you and happy father's day to you all!