Handle opinions for a 1 3/4 head.

[jeremy1517]

I have a standard single bit head weighing 1 3/4 lbs.


I have a 28" straight single bit handle and a 28" boys axe handle.


Which handle would you put on the head?


Both are slim and feel good to me. I've never had a axe on a 28" straight handle before.

 

[M3mphis]

I feel like 28" is a little long for that light a head. It would be interesting to try it out, though! I'm partial to curved handles, so that will automatically get my vote.

 

[Square_peg]

I think a 1-3/4 pound axe would do well on a 28" handle, straight or curved. Still light enough to choke up on and use for carving. But with the added length to aid in limbing and chopping. Go for it.

 

[jeremy1517]

I currently have it on a 28" handle but its a junk handle. I'm really tempted to put it on the straight handle to see how it feels.

How important is grain alignment on a 28" handle ?

 

[Shmellor@gmail.com]

I don't know much...but with that light of a head I wouldn't think grain alignment would have to be ideal, but it might annoy you looking at it.

 

[Square_peg]

Run out is more important than grain alignment. Just the same, I try to stay within about 20° of alignment with the axe head even on a boys axe.

 

[300Six]

Fashion over the past 150 years dictates that axes have curved handles but who's to say you can't buck the trend. The Pulaski I've grown fond of for many tasks has a straight handle and frankly I like it that way for cutting and chopping (of course a 2-sided tool doesn't work very well with an upside down curved handle but I think you know what I mean). May be a golden opportunity to fit both handles on in such a way that you can switch back and forth on a trial basis. For instance if you can achieve a snug eye fit and make the wedge removeable (leave it sticking out well enough to be able to withdraw) then you can experience the use and ergonomics of both straight and curved in order to make a decision based on fact rather than on hearsay. Also allows you the opportunity to appraise handle length while you're at it since you can then shorten things up by and inch or two (if there's enough wood at the shoulder) as long as the wedge is still removable.
Myself think 1 3/4 lb is on the featherweight side of axe definition (all of my light-weight axes are 2 1/4 lb and mostly have 26 inch handles) but then again this is your personal axe and you are fitting it for your own situation and needs.