If you've been using a double bit axe for an extended period, it's likely that the handle has become worn and may need to be replaced. The good news is that this process is relatively easy with a few simple tools in hand! I have all the information you need to replace your old or broken axe handle here. Read on if you want learn how to do it yourself. Or, if DIY isn't really your thing, I also provide links to some quality axe handle from reputable brands so you can skip straight ahead to what matters most—finding one that feels right in your hands when swinging at logs or tree stumps.
There are several reasons you may need to replace a double bit axe handle. The first reason is that the handle may be broken. If the handle is broken, it may be dangerous to use the axe, as the broken pieces may cause injury. Additionally, a broken handle will make it difficult to swing the axe properly.
Another reason you may need to replace a double bit axe handle is if it is wet and starting to rot. A damp and rotted handle will be weak and may break while you are using it. Additionally, a wet and rotted handle will cause the axe head to rust, damaging the blade.
You may need to replace a double bit axe handle if it is dry and starting to split. A dry handle may be more likely to break. If the handle is splitting, it may make it difficult for you to swing the axe properly. Additionally, a handle that splits may cause damage to your axe blade.
A fourth reason you need to replace a double bit axe handle is if it is too short for you. It will be difficult for people with long arms to use an axe with a short handle because it often causes their arm muscles to work harder than they should when swinging the axe. An overly short handle can also lead to fatigue during use, resulting in injury or poor control of the axe while using it. Therefore, it's essential not only for safety but also efficiency reasons that your double bit axe has an appropriate length handle for your height and arm length.
Finally, you may need to replace a double bit axe handle if it is too long for you. An overly long handle can make it difficult to control the axe while you are using it properly. It can also lead to fatigue during use, resulting in injury or poor control of the axe. Therefore, your double bit axe should have an appropriate handle for your height and arm length for the most effective and safe use.
What Do You Need for Replacing Your Double Bit Axe Handle?
Materials:
Wood for the handle, axe head, rivets, and a file. You can purchase a tool that makes this job a lot easier, but it's not necessary.
Tools needed:
Hammer, chisel, or rasp file (if possible), power drill with bits of different sizes to fit the diameter of your axe head and blade screw. It is also necessary to have a measuring tape to know how long your new handle must be. You may need some gloves as well because wood splintering isn't very comfortable on the hands.
Steps for How to Replace Your Old, Worn Out Double Bit Axe Handle
Replacing an old, worn-out double bit axe handle can be a simple task if you have the right tools and know what you're doing. Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Remove the old handle from the head of the ax by removing any nails or screws holding it in place. This is done with a wrench and pliers and possibly some other tools like a socket set.
2. Obtain measurements for how long and how thick of a replacement handle you'll want to make for your ax. A piece of scrap lumber like balsa wood is suitable because it's soft and easy to cut and sand down. A standard hand saw can also be used; it has the benefit of making a straight cut.
Once you have the appropriate measurements, cut the wood for the new handle to length and thickness. You can use a hand saw or chop saw for this step. Be sure to sand any rough edges on the new handle down, so it's safe to grip.
3. Cut the wood for the new handle to length and thickness. You can use a hand saw or chop saw for this step. Be sure to sand any rough edges on the new handle down, so it's safe to grip.
4. Drill two holes at the end of the new handle big enough for metal wedges to fit into snugly. These wedges will hold the handle in place once it's inserted into the axe head.
5. If you like, you can now paint your new replacement handle to give it a bit more protection and style. Let it dry completely before using it.
6. Finally, insert the metal wedges into the holes you drilled in the handle and use a hammer to tap them into place. Grip the new handle and give it a few test swings. If everything feels good, your old double bit axe is ready for some more complex use. Thanks for reading!
Watch the video on how to replace a double bit axe handle:
Tips and Tricks for Replacing an Axe Handle
There are a few things you can do to make replacing an axe handle a bit easier. Here are some tips and tricks:
- Make sure you have the right tools for the job. You'll need an axe, a hammer, a chisel, and a saw.
- Cut off the old handle as close to the axe head as possible. Then, use a saw to cut through the wood near the axe head.
- Chisel out the remaining wood around the axe head. Use a hammer and chisel to remove any leftover wood from around the axe head.
- Measure and cut the new handle to size. Please measure the length of the old handle and then cut the new one to match it.
- Prepare the axe head for a new handle. A nail should be hammered into the top of the axe, where you will insert the new handle. This will keep your new handle from splitting as you pound it in.
- Insert and secure new handle into place with nails or screws. Use a claw hammer to tap the new handle's end into place on the nail/screw that's already been hammered into place near the tip of the axe head, then use screws or nails to secure it even further into place if necessary (it usually isn't).
- Trim any excess wood around the axe head and blend it with a rasp tool until smooth and flush with surrounding areas.
- Check the axe head and handle for any large gaps or uneven sections. If needed, use a chisel and hammer to remove excess wood from the axe head, then blend it with the rasp until smooth.
- Sand down all areas of the axe handle that will be visible, including both faces of the new handle, as well as the back of the head where it meets with your new handle's end cap. If you're using screws/nails to attach your new handle, sand them down so they'll blend in with surrounding areas more efficiently too.
- Apply boiled linseed oil (BLO) or other finish to your final product, so you'll know how much work you put into it simply by looking at its rich color or protective finish.
Now that you know how to replace an axe handle go ahead and give it a try! Happy chopping!
Final Thoughts
I think that this is a good story to end on. This post has covered everything you need to know about replacing your axe handle, and it's served as an excellent reminder of the importance of keeping tools in working order. Thanks for reading!