Just before New Year I decided I needed to straighten up the helve on my Axe.
The first incarnation was a lovely curved affair.
But I wanted to change it for a straight helve, much like my H.Roselli Axe.
With a straight helve, the cutting edge is presented to the work at the same attitude no matter where your hand is on the helve.
I like this idea.
There is a full helve replacement tutorial here on my blog.
It is important to recess the helve to allow for a curved cheek.
You can make a nice accurate recess if you mark out with a compass or something similar.
The Poll needs seating as well.
Once a good tight fit is achieved it's time to saw a slot for a peg.
I chose a piece of Mahogany from the 'Cutty Sark' tea clipper.
Making sure it will be a good tight fit
When confident the peg is at the right dimension...
Hammer or press it home.
Then remove the excess.
A good fit !
It looks great.
And now it feels part of me when I rough out spoon blanks.
I'm very happy indeed.
You can buy very handy and useful axe heads from
If you wish to purchase any of my work.
Drop me a line at...
firststeps@thewood.eclipse.co.uk
Enjoy.
J.