This old axe

JT

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The handle has split at the head. Normally I'd just replace it, but this handle is vintage hickory and is probably older than I am. Can you 'repair' an axe handle head? The handle shape won't allow me to cut it down (both tapered and curving). Who's got my back on this one?

IMG_20200810_102100765.jpg IMG_20200810_102014385.jpg IMG_20200810_102046907.jpg
 
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Pics? How bad are we talking? Glue and a wrap can band-aid some things, but not much. All axe handle heads are split when wedged. It's a matter of length and direction of the split weather it is safe or not, or repairable.
 
The handle has split at the head. Normally I'd just replace it, but this handle is vintage hickory and is probably older than I am. Can you 'repair' an axe handle head? The handle shape won't allow me to cut it down (both tapered and curving). Who's got my back on this one?
I'm having a hard time visualizing your problem. Is it the shaft (He said shaft)that is split? Or is it in the metal.

If it's the shaft you could glue it and wrap it with a splint and get limited use out of it but my money would be on replacement. They were never intended to not have handles replaces.
 
Please post a pic of the stick.

ETA: I broke my ax by missing what I was swinging at (derr). I cut off the splintered section, sanded it down, and now it rides behind the driver seat in my Tacoma.

I didn't but a replacement handle. I just bought a whole other ax.
 
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You may be able to wrap the handle with wire, I've seen it done to WWII axes by the GI's.
I have my Great Grandfathers aze original handle and found a new one that I installed.

Also you can soak the new handle in boiled linseed oil to help preserve it.
I use a plastic bucket, cover the head and soak the assembly overnight.
 
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Disclaimer: I did not split this handle (nor have I ever). This belonged to my f-i-l (RIP) and was split long ago. I am pretty careful with my tools.
 
I'd say wood glue the crack and clamp it. After it's set up, hang the axe head and wrap the handle below the head. Paracord wrap seems to be the latest trend with the "bushcrafters"....
 
Disclaimer: I did not split this handle (nor have I ever). This belonged to my f-i-l (RIP) and was split long ago. I am pretty careful with my tools.
Hang that one on the wall and get a new one.
Use the ax head in good heath.
 
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I'd say wood glue the crack and clamp it. After it's set up, hang the axe head and wrap the handle below the head. Paracord wrap seems to be the latest trend with the "bushcrafters"....


I wouldn't use paracord, I would use damp rawhide. Same wrap technique. When the rawhide dries, it shrinks and becomes hard. Spools of precut rawhide can be found on the net.
 
I wouldn't use paracord, I would use damp rawhide. Same wrap technique. When the rawhide dries, it shrinks and becomes hard. Spools of precut rawhide can be found on the net.
Like baseball glove lacing? Or has it been treated?
 
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