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  • Writer's pictureDIYTechnician

DIY How to Re-Handle Axes and Sledge Hammers

Updated: Feb 20

Have some extra axe heads laying around? How about sledge hammers. I figured they aren't much good laying around collecting dust and taking up space with no handle on them. They love to be put to work so you may as well slap some new handles on them. Once you do you will feel that wonderful feeling of accomplishment as well as a feeling of being frugal and saving money by not buying a brand new one. There's also a sense of doing something good anytime you repurpose something or extend it's life vs. throwing it into the landfill.


For many of my fellow enthusiasts, refurbishing old axes and woodcutting equipment is very rewarding. It brings new life and purpose to tools that would otherwise be left in their tired and broken state on a shelf somewhere or even discarded headed towards the local landfill. Repair of many types of simple woodcutting tools is fairly inexpensive when compared to purchasing new. Many tools like sledge hammers, axes and picks can last a lifetime and even get passed down from generation to generation, which I’ve personally experienced. In some cases, the repair of these tools is essential to survival because through their use, warmth can be obtained. In other cases, with regards to repair, it can be a matter of having an extra as a backup or just be great pieces for topics of discussion or for display. With regards to axes, if you regularly use your axe than no doubt at some point in the game you’ll be faced with the need to replace your axe handle. Part of the fun in getting into or being part of refurbishing axe heads and handles is learning and knowing what the various types of patterns, shapes and sizes of axes (and other tools) are called. Pertinent to this refurbishment project is some terminology such what is another name or what is a handle (a.k.a. a helve or haft) which is known as the hang. The hang of an ax is always a matter of personal choice. You should hang your ax to suit you. This should be where the head is neither too heavy nor too light, and the axe handle is just the right length for the user. Another feature of an axe head is called the “eye” of the axe. This is the opening in the axe head where the handle fits up into. For axe handle replacement, some of the tools you’ll need are as follows: Vice, Hand Saw, Drill and drill bits, Slotted screwdriver, piece of hardened steel (i.e. cold chisel), and a Hammer.


Amazon (paid) Link to a Set of 3 Extra 19" Hickory Handles for Tomahawks & Axes: https://amzn.to/3DpBxfk


STIHL Axe Handle Replacement


How to replace the handle on your Stihl splitting maul. This has been probably the best splitting maul I have ever owned. Well worth the money that I spent on it. It's the Cadillac for a well seasoned wood chopper. The place I purchased it from guaranteed a handle replacement for life. They made good on their word of replacement. I walked in and reminded them of their lifetime handle replacement and with no questions asked they handed me a new one. Wow. I was pleasantly surprised. Went home and put the new one on. This video shows the step by step process on how I did it. I'm no expert but I was able to figure it out. Back in business! Get you a still hat at this paid amazon link here: https://amzn.to/2Ueq9Mh


Vintage Sledge Hammer Restoration


What's the difference between a wood cutter and a lumberjack? The difference between a lumberjack and a woodcutter is that a lumberjack fearlessly climbs tall trees and removes the top with a deadly chainsaw. He may even eat his lunch up there. A woodcutter drives through the woods, looks for a dry tree that is laying on the ground, bucks it up with his chainsaw and tosses the rounds in the back of his truck. A lumberjack doesn't stack wood. A woodcutter takes those bucked up rounds and chops them with an axe while maybe having a couple beers. When a lumberjack is done with his death defying high altitude tree harvesting he drops to the ground, puts his saw in his truck and goes home. A woodcutter may have to get after the rest. A lumberjack owns spikes and climbing gear. A woodcutter owns Carhart pants, shirt and maybe a. Stihl ball cap. In this DIY Vintage Sledge Hammer Restoration I took this old sledge hammer head and turned it into a brand new sledge. It was one motivated by the fact that I had this old sledge hammer head laying on my shed floor for years but also I got some of my grampa's old axe handles he had in his garage after he passed. Was a fun project and brought pleasant thoughts of my gramps and all of the wood he chopped during his lifetime among other things. Link to new sledgehammer: https://amzn.to/2Wc7Us2


Vintage Iron City Brand Sledge Hammer Refurb


How to Sharpen an Old Hatchet

Please join me on in my How to Sharpen an Old Hatchet Video. While there are other ways and even better ways to sharpen a hatchet, this is how I like to do it in my back yard. Since I do cut a lot of wood it's important for me to have the tools around to get the job done.


Amazon Dewalt Angle Grinder: https://amzn.to/2KU8DtL


Amazon Knife and Tool Sharpener: https://amzn.to/2Sr6w52


Amazon File Kit: https://amzn.to/2VSNXbX


DIY Tactical Throwing Tomahawk Composite Handle Replacement From Repurposed Pick Axe Handle


This tactical throwing tomahawk took one too many bad trips down range at the backyard practice target. I hated to see this finely crafted and still useful piece of metal collect dust and rust so I decided to put a new handle on it. Just so happens I'd recently re-handled my pick axe with a new handle so had this old one laying around just begging to be repurposed. So I did just that by cutting it to length, cutting a slot for the blade to fit, and fastening it with some repurposed door hinge pins. For adhesive I used some gorilla glue and some JB Weld epoxy. Worked like a charm. I'd say it's not really a throwing tomahawk anymore...actually I guess it's not even a necessarily a tomahawk at all. It's more like a new and sharp hatchet or camping axe. After putting a "new" handle on it I grinder sharpened the blade. Back in working order now. Hope you enjoy!



Woodings Verona 28" Boys Axe Authentic Paint Design


Crafting Authenticity: DIY Custom Axe Head and Handle Hanging | Wooding Verona 28" Boys Axe Authentic Paint Design. Welcome to a journey of craftsmanship and creativity! In this video, we delve into the art of customizing a Wooding Verona 28" Boys Axe, infusing it with an authentic paint design that speaks to individuality and character. Join as we explore the process of transforming a standard axe into a personalized masterpiece, perfect for display or practical use.

The Wooding Verona 28" Boys Axe serves as our canvas, offering a sturdy foundation for our customization endeavors. With its durable construction and classic design, this axe embodies both functionality and aesthetics, making it an ideal candidate for customization.

Our focus today lies in the realm of paint design, where every stroke tells a story and every detail reflects personality. Using high-quality paints and brushes, we embark on the journey of bringing our vision to life, layer by layer, color by color.

But before we dive into the painting process, we must prepare the surface of the axe head and handle, ensuring optimal adhesion and longevity of the paint. This involves thorough cleaning and sanding to remove any existing finish and create a smooth, receptive surface for our design.

With the preparation complete, it's time to unleash our creativity and begin painting! Whether you're drawn to bold patterns, intricate designs, or subtle accents, the possibilities are endless. From vibrant hues to earthy tones, the choice of colors is a reflection of personal style and expression.

As the paint dries and the design takes shape, we take a moment to appreciate the fusion of artistry and craftsmanship. Each brushstroke adds depth and dimension, transforming a simple axe into a unique work of art.

Once the painting is complete, we apply a protective sealant to safeguard the design against wear and tear, ensuring its longevity and durability. This final step not only preserves the integrity of the paint but also enhances the overall appearance of the axe.

With our custom paint design finalized, we turn our attention to the hanging of the axe head and handle. Whether for display purposes or practical use, a well-executed hanging ensures that the axe is showcased in all its glory, ready to command attention and admiration.

Using sturdy hardware and secure mounting techniques, we ensure that the axe hangs safely and securely, whether on a wall or a display stand. Proper alignment and spacing are essential, allowing the axe to hang with poise and balance.

As the finishing touches are applied and the axe finds its place of honor, we step back to admire the fruits of our labor. From humble beginnings to a custom masterpiece, the Wooding Verona 28" Boys Axe has undergone a remarkable transformation, embodying the essence of authenticity and individuality.

In conclusion, this DIY Custom Axe Head and Handle Hanging project exemplifies the power of creativity and craftsmanship to elevate everyday objects into extraordinary works of art. Whether as a decorative piece or a functional tool, a custom-painted axe adds a unique touch to any space, serving as a testament to the beauty of self-expression and personalization. Join us in celebrating the art of customization and unleash your creativity today!




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