Installing an axe head

Although we sell many ready-made axes in our store, it is also possible to make your own axe by purchasing a separate axe head and shaft. It can also happen that your axe shaft needs replacement at some point. It is important to install the axe head safely. Always ensure you wear the appropriate safety equipment!

-screwdriver

-saw

-chisel

-wood glue

-(rubber) hammer

-sandpaper or wood file

Step 1:

Place the axe head on the shaft and see how far it can go onto the shaft. The shaft must protrude a few centimeters from the top of the axe head . If the shaft is too thick to go through the eye of the head, align the axe head on the side of the shaft. Ensure that the shaft protrudes a few centimeters and mark with a pencil where the bottom of the axe head should come. Use sandpaper or a wood file to reshape the shaft. Regularly check progress by fitting the axe head onto the handle until it slides to the marked spot. Be careful not to sand the shaft too much, otherwise the axe head will not stay on the shaft.

Step 2:

Use a chisel or saw to make a edge in the top of the shaft. It must be deep enough for the wooden wedge to go in deep enough so that the head stays firmly attached.

Step 3:

Apply some wood glue to the wedge and place it in the shaft. Use the hammer to ensure the wedge is firmly in place. Let the glue dry for at least 15 minutes.

Step 4:

Use a saw to cut off the part of the shaft that protrudes from the top of the axe. Leave about 1 to 2 cm wood above the axe head. Sand the small piece of wood that remains into the desired shape.

Step 5:

To further reinforce the axe, you can also attach a steel wedge. Do this by hitting the steel wedge with the hammer. Use the screwdriver to tap the wedge slightly deeper so it does not protrude from the shaft.

Click here for our collection of axes