Axe Handles in Canada: How to Choose, Replace, and Find the Best Selection

When it comes to axes, most people focus on the head: the steel, the edge angle, or the brand. But the handle is just as important. A poorly chosen or worn handle can ruin your swing, make your work unsafe, and shorten the life of your axe.

In Canada, where winters are cold, wood can be wet or frozen, and work can be demanding, choosing the right handle is critical. This guide will cover everything you need to know about axe handles: materials, sizing, replacement tips, and where to find the best selection in Canada.

1. Axe Handle Materials

The material of an axe handle affects durability, comfort, and performance.

Hickory: The most common North American handle material. Strong, resilient, and absorbs shocks well.
Other hardwoods or laminated woods: Sometimes used in European-style axes or specialty handles. They offer similar strength but may have different flex or feel.

What to look for: Straight-grained wood with no knots in the critical area near the axe eye. A smooth finish improves grip and reduces wear.

2. Handle Shapes and Design

Axe handles come in two main shapes:

Curved handles: Common in European and Scandinavian designs. They give a better swing arc and reduce strain on your wrists.
Straight handles: Often found in North American axes. They provide better control for certain tasks like limbing or chopping kindling.

The handle should fit the axe head snugly. A loose fit is unsafe; a handle that’s too tight may crack or split when mounted. Many premium handles come with wedges (wood or metal) to secure the head. Some include reinforcement rings for added durability.

3. Sizing Your Axe Handle

Choosing the right length and eye size is critical.

Length: Longer handles give more leverage and power. Shorter handles give more control. Choose based on your work: splitting logs, felling trees, or camp tasks.
Eye size: The “eye” is the hole in the axe head where the handle fits. Handles are sized by width × height (for example, 50×20 mm). A correct fit ensures safety and efficiency.
Matching head type: Make sure the handle shape (straight vs. curved) matches your axe head pattern.

Tip: When replacing a handle, measure the old one carefully. If your new handle is slightly oversized, you can adjust it for a perfect fit.

4. Replacing an Axe Handle

Replacing a handle is straightforward if done carefully:

Remove the old handle: Clear out old wood and inspect the axe head for cracks.
Select a new handle: Match the eye size and choose a length and shape that suit your work.
Mount the head: Insert the handle, add wooden or metal wedges, and ensure the head sits square.
Finish the handle: Sand if needed, and apply boiled linseed oil to protect the wood.
Check regularly: After a few uses, inspect for loosening or cracks.

5. Why Selection Matters in Canada

Axe heads come in many sizes and patterns. Some replacement handles are harder to find than others. Canadian buyers need:

Nationwide shipping
Clear sizing information
A wide range of handle lengths and eye sizes
Premium brands like Hultafors, Gränsfors and Unex
Accessories like wedges or rings

Having access to the right handle ensures safety, efficiency, and longevity for your tool.

6. Axeman.ca: The Largest Selection of Axe Handles in Canada

Axeman.ca stands out as a Canadian retailer offering the largest selection of axe handles in the country.

They carry handles for premium brands like Hultafors, Gränsfors Bruk and Unex.
They list detailed sizing information (length and eye size) so buyers get the right fit.
Canadian shipping ensures fast delivery without customs headaches.
Their range covers everything from small hatchets to full-size forest axes.

Whether you’re replacing a broken handle, upgrading to a premium handle, or matching a specific axe head, Axeman.ca provides options that are hard to find elsewhere in Canada.

Browse Axeman’s full selection of axe handles

7. Recommended Handle Options

Here are a few popular handles available in Canada:

Gränsfors Bruk Forest Axe Handle: Premium, straight or curved options, durable hickory.
Hultafors Curved Axe Shaft: Includes wedge, ergonomic for full-size axes.
Hultafors Hultan Hatchet Handle: For smaller axes and hatchets, premium quality.

Always choose based on eye size, handle length, and your type of work.

8. Canadian-Specific Considerations

Climate: Cold, wet, or frozen conditions can affect wooden handles. Check for loosening or cracks regularly.
Remote locations: Canadian buyers in rural areas need suppliers who ship nationwide.
Brand familiarity: Canadian buyers often prefer Hultafors, Gränsfors, or Unex for easy replacement and accessories.

9. Conclusion

A quality axe handle is crucial for safety, comfort, and performance. In Canada, where outdoor work can be demanding, choosing the right handle and maintaining it properly ensures your axe lasts for years.

For Canadian buyers, Axeman.ca offers the largest selection of premium axe handles, detailed sizing, and reliable shipping—making it the go-to choice for replacing, upgrading, or customizing your axe handle.

Explore Axeman.ca’s axe handle selection now and find the perfect fit for your axe.

Country