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Ever swung an axe that felt like it worked against you? The handle is the invisible partner in every chop, split and limb removal. Pick the right replacement axe handle and suddenly your tool feels lighter, straighter and more precise — like trading an old bicycle for one with proper suspension. In this guide I’ll walk you through where to buy axe handles in the UK, what to look for, how to fit them, and which accessories are worth your money. Whether you’re a weekend woodcutter, a professional arborist, or someone who likes to keep a tidy logpile, this article will make the choice easier.
Looking for axe handles near you? In the UK you’ll find options ranging from big-box DIY chains to specialist tool shops and online marketplaces. Here are reputable outlets to check when shopping for handles, wedges, or sheathes.
B&Q is a go-to for household DIYers and often stocks replacement wooden handles, hatchets and basic wedges. Their range suits garden tasks and light forestry work — great if you want a quick replacement without a long drive. Prices are reasonable and availability in many stores makes it convenient.
Screwfix tends to have a robust selection for both DIY and trade customers. They offer branded handles, replacement wedges and some fiberglass options. If you prefer in-store pickup or fast delivery to your site, Screwfix is a convenient choice that bridges DIY and professional needs.
Wickes is another national DIY chain with a steady supply of handles and accessories for garden tools. Their stock often suits basic repairs and light usage. Think of Wickes as the reliable neighbour who turns up with a spare part when you need one quickly.
Toolstation stocks handles and accessory kits aimed at tradespeople and serious DIYers. They frequently have the heavier-duty options you might want for regular chopping or splitting, plus accessories like leather sheaths and replacement wedges.
Axminster is a specialist seller that focuses on quality woodworking tools. If you’re after premium wooden handles or bespoke lengths — particularly for carpentry-style axes and hatchets — Axminster is worth exploring. Their products often come with better grading and finish than mass-market handles.
Online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay host a huge variety of handles, from low-cost generic wooden shafts to branded hickory handles and fiberglass options. The key here is to read seller reviews, check product dimensions in inches, and verify whether the handle fits your axe head before ordering.
If you want top-quality hickory or ash handles, look for specialist timber merchants or local tool shops. Smaller businesses often carry hand-shaped handles, heritage brands like Gransfors Bruk stockists, or can even custom-fit handles to vintage heads. Local forestry suppliers and arborist shops may also carry premium or trade-grade options.
Handles aren’t one-size-fits-all. The material, shape and length influence comfort, control and durability. Let’s break down the main types so you can match the handle to the job.
Hickory is the traditional choice because it balances shock absorption and strength. It’s forgiving on the hands and takes a good grain orientation for durability. Expect lengths commonly between 14 inches for hatchets and 36 inches or longer for felling or splitting axes.
Ash is another classic; it’s slightly lighter than hickory and has a springy feel that many users love. If you prefer a bit more flex during the swing, ash might be your friend — especially for tasks that need finesse more than brute force.
Fiberglass handles offer high toughness and weather resistance. They’re less prone to cracking or swelling when left outside, and some come with anti-vibration cores. Their downside? You’ll miss that natural “give” of wood, and they can be heavier in some models — often measured in pounds — so check the weight before you buy.
Modern composites and laminated woods combine the best features of different materials. They can be very strong and consistent, with reduced risk of warping. If you want low-maintenance and predictable performance, composites deserve a look.
Length and head fit are as important as material. A handle acts like a lever: change the length and you change how the axe behaves. Which length is right depends on the job and your height.
Hatchets and small hand axes: 12–18 inches. These are ideal for kindling, light pruning and camp duties. Felling axes: typically 28–36 inches to give momentum and reach. Splitting axes: often heavier with handles in the 28–36 inch range to deliver more driving force. A 36-inch handle will give extra reach and power, while a 28-inch handle offers more control.
Curved handles promote a natural wrist and arm motion, helping the head bite into wood. Straight handles suit chopping with a specific grip and can be easier to fit into a tight space. Choose a curve if you want natural follow-through; choose straight for precision or if you’re matching a historic tool.
Before you buy, measure the eye of your axe head in inches and note the weight of the head in pounds if possible. If the head is heavy, you may want a denser wood or a shorter handle for control. Balance is about where the center of mass sits; a mismatched handle can make a great head feel clumsy.
Measure the width and depth of the axe head’s eye in inches. Handles are often sold “unfinished” and need shaping to fit the specific eye. If you’re not confident, local tool shops or specialist retailers can fit the handle for you.
If your axe head weighs 3 to 5 pounds, pick a handle that maintains a good balance — neither too flimsy nor too heavy. Splitting mauls and larger felling heads can weigh 6 pounds or more, so aim for a robust handle built for that load.
Replacing a handle can be a satisfying weekend job. It’s like giving your axe new legs. Here’s a simple overview of the process so you know what to expect before you tackle it.
Start by cutting off the old handle flush with the head using a saw, leaving the stubborn wood inside the eye. Use a punch or drift to drive out the wood. Be cautious and use eye protection — flying splinters are no joke.
Dry-fit the new handle into the eye. You’ll use a rasp or coarse file to adjust the tenon until the head slides on snugly in inches of depth, without rocking. It should seat fully and sit flush or slightly proud of the eye.
Once the head is seated, drive a hardwood wedge into the handle’s slot and follow up with a metal wedge perpendicular to lock everything. Trim the excess and chamfer the exposed wood to prevent splitting. This step converts the wood’s expansion into holding power — a simple mechanical magic trick.
Treat your wooden handle like a wooden spoon — it needs oil and care. Regular maintenance keeps the handle strong, comfortable and safe for years.
Rub linseed oil into the handle every few months, especially before winter, to prevent drying and cracking. Store axes in a dry place and avoid leaving wooden-handled tools outside in the rain. Think of oiling like putting on a raincoat for your handle.
Keep the axe head sharp with a file or sharpening stone, maintaining the manufacturer’s recommended bevel angle in degrees. A sharp edge makes the work safer and more efficient; a blunt axe slips and increases effort — like trying to cut bread with a butter knife.
Beyond the handle itself, certain accessories make using and storing your axe safer and more pleasant. These are small purchases that pay dividends in comfort and safety.
A leather or synthetic sheath protects the edge and prevents accidental cuts. If you’re carrying an axe to a campsite or vehicle, a sheath is essential. Always sheath the blade when not in use.
Most specialist stores sell wedge kits that include both hardwood and metal wedges and a steel wedge nut. Having spares is useful, especially if you like restoring vintage heads. A handle kit may also include instructions for fitting.
For wet or cold conditions, consider slip-resistant grip tape or a rubberized grip sleeve. These cost little but improve control and reduce blisters during long sessions.
Axes are simple tools but they can be dangerous if misused. A few habits make a big difference in safety and longevity.
Always wear eye protection and work gloves; consider steel-toe boots for heavy splitting tasks. If you’re working overhead, a hard hat might be wise. Safety gear is cheap compared to the alternative.
Check the head is secure, the handle has no major cracks and the edge is correctly sharpened. Replace or repair at the first sign of failure — don’t gamble on a loose head mid-swing.
Not every axe is meant for every task. Choose a handle that complements the intended use to get work done efficiently and safely.
For campsite tasks and light bushcraft, choose a short handle (12–20 inches) with a balanced, hand-friendly head. Mobility and precision beat raw power here.
If you’re cutting bigger trees, a longer handle (28–36 inches) gives the momentum to drive the head through the trunk. Pick hickory or a composite for durability under regular use.
Splitting axes and mauls often benefit from heavier heads and stout handles that can take the pounding. Aim for a handle that’s robust and well-maintained so it doesn’t fail under repeated blows.
Wooden handles are renewable, but the source matters. Look for FSC-certified timber or ask suppliers about sustainable sourcing. Choosing a long-lasting handle over a cheaper, short-lived option also reduces waste. Think of a good handle as an investment — like planting a tree that keeps giving shade for years.
If you’re uncomfortable fitting a handle yourself, many specialist retailers and local independents offer fitting services. They can also remortise old heads and custom-shape tenons to match odd-sized eyes. It’s a small extra cost that saves time and ensures a safe, durable job.
Choosing the right axe handle in the UK comes down to matching material, length and shape to the task, and buying from a trusted outlet. Whether you shop at national chains like B&Q, Screwfix or Wickes, or opt for specialist retailers like Axminster Tools and local timber merchants, prioritize a proper fit, quality material and good maintenance. With the right handle and a few simple accessories, an axe can become an extension of your arm — reliable, efficient and satisfying to use. So measure in inches, oil regularly, and don’t be afraid to ask a local trade shop for fitting help if you need it.
