New Handle Treatments?

jeremy1517 · Mar 16, 2014

Thanks to you all, I've went the route of refurbishing older axes instead of buying new. I've actually bought and put together three axes for about $100. I thank you all!!!

My question is do I need to treat the handles with anything or just use them? I've read the threads and it seems most people put a finish on their handles for cosmetic purposes. Personally, I don't care how the handle looks BUT if putting a finish of sorts on the handle will help preserve the life of them I'm game. What are your thoughts?

If a finish preserves the life, what is recommended?

Thanks!!

Joe L. Bachs · Mar 16, 2014

I think most guys on here treat hafts with linseed oil or tung oil, some (including me) use a combination of the 2.

chuxwan · Mar 16, 2014

Linseed oil to protect the handle from more rapid moisture changes, which are the primary reason for wood to crack and age.

I.N.F.K · Mar 16, 2014

I've used linseed oil w/ beeswax, but I've also used just mineral oil.

I.N.F.K · Mar 16, 2014

I mean tung oil w/ beeswax

Square_peg · Mar 16, 2014

Joe L. Bachs said:
I think most guys on here treat hafts with linseed oil or tung oil, some (including me) use a combination of the 2.

That's what I do. I start with a couple coats of BLO - I think it penetrates and nourishes the wood better than tung oil. But then I'll follow up with a couple coats of tung oil which in my opinion creates a more protective and durable finish. Also I like the grip of a tung oil finished haft better than a BLO finished haft. It seems grippier to me.

jeremy1517 · Mar 16, 2014

What is BLO? Boiled Linseed oil?

Zymologist · Mar 16, 2014

jeremy1517 said:
What is BLO? Boiled Linseed oil?

You got it boiled linseed oil.

jeremy1517 · Mar 16, 2014

Do you all sand between coats?

I.N.F.K · Mar 16, 2014

jeremy1517 said:
Do you all sand between coats?

I generally use really fine sandpaper or steel wool between and on the final coat

Square_peg · Mar 16, 2014

jeremy1517 said:
Do you all sand between coats?

Not necessarily - especially between coats of BLO since it doesn't build up on the surface as much as Tung oil does. But if you feel the grain coming up then hit it. I do sand between coats of Tung oil, or at a minimum before the final coat.