Possible noob question for 1st hang: is eye supposed to be longer at top than bottom?

[Uncle_Buck]

I picked up a 4# True Temper Flint Edge Jersey pattern head for a splitting axe and now I need a handle. This will be my first "real" hang, as I've never tackled anything trickier than a hatchet before.

I measured the eye trying to figure out what I need and as was surprised to find that not only is the top of the eye wider but also a full 1/8" longer (front to back) than the bottom. I used a thin steel straight-edge and confirmed that its a uniform taper from bottom to top on both the front and back. It seems to me that having a gap that large at the top front of the eye is going to cause the head to want to rock back with use. I realize that I could size the wedge to the eye instead of the handle and fill some of the gap, but it doesn't seem like that will stand up to much punishment.

Is this normal- and more importantly is it something to worry about? And if it is, what can/should I do about it? I'm hoping the answer is something other than use a metal wedge!

P.S. I realize this is a basic question, and I tried to search before posting but came up blank!

 

[300Six]

Sounds to me like you found a prize 'user' axe. Jersey patterns are top drawer already for their generous eye. For you this is going to be a wonderful opportunity to 'cross wedge' with wood and not via a vertical woodie followed by a slammed-in metal wedge. Done right that sucker will never 'let go' once it's been hung that way.

 

[Uncle_Buck]

Okay, now that I know what a cross-wedge is it looks like just the ticket; the concept looks pretty straight forward, but are there any tricks or pointers that will help a first timer? I want to get to work on this just as soon as I figure out whether to order a straight or curved handle....

 

[SC T100]

The trick is making sure the haft you use has enough wood for the eye...if it's too small it'll never be as secure as it could be. House Handle and some other handle sources provide eye measurements to get you as close to (or slightly over) the wood you need to fill the eye. Then it's a matter of fitting and hanging using rasps and sandpaper.

 

[300Six]

Okay, now that I know what a cross-wedge is it looks like just the ticket; the concept looks pretty straight forward, but are there any tricks or pointers that will help a first timer? I want to get to work on this just as soon as I figure out whether to order a straight or curved handle....

City of the South; (COTS) has a forum thread dedicated to his ongoing efforts at making handles from scratch and conducting lovely hangs. Poke around through there to get some inspiration, hints and advice.
Curved handle vs straight is not going to be an easy decision for a Jersey because they're one of the few that look and feel great either way. Straight is going to give you most durability especially if handle choices (for wood grain orientation) are limited.