Cracked Axe handle repair: Dowel Fix Method

This video is to help show you how to fix a crack in the palm swell of an axe handle with a wooden dowel. The crack in this case wasn't from impact but from drying and it was internal to the lumber. It's a relatively quick fix and can give you some longevity to your project.
LESSONS LEARNED: Don't use an impact drill like I did! haha I should have known better but wasn't thinking. Still worked out fine.
www.stumptownaxes.com
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I am sure there's more than one way to save a handle like this. Learning different ways is putting yourself on the path of mastery. Enjoy the journey, it doesn't end.

[@bigoldgrizzly]

I usually add one step to your method. If the split is straight, I cut down the line of the crack with a handsaw and glue a slip of wood into the kerf, effectively gluing the split. Then I go ahead with putting in the dowel. .... and yes, I do wear a belt and suspenders ;

[@grattonland]

That's a good way to secure that crack.
If the area of the end was larger, a butterfly joint over the crack with some different colour wood would have looked cool too.

[@donaldmatthies6026]

Paul,
I will keep that repair in mind for the future. Thank you for taking time to film, edit and post this video

[@ruckuswethepeep4384]

Great video, I have my grandfather's Ax I have been trying to figure out a way to save the handle, and use it as well. Thanks, really works !!!

[@jthorpe454]

I’m anxious to get it!!

[@Brentc1968]

Thank you so much for this idea. I used it as a test on a piece of bubinga. The white oak dowel working just fine as a test, but unexpectedly a friend wanted that handle over others because of the contrast and look.

[@StumptownAxes]

Excellent. A lot of good things happen by accident. Pay attention to inspiration. It’s sitting right in front of us sometimes. Thanks for stopping by and commenting 👍🏼

[@keithhastings]

I love this tip. Thanks!

[@ryanb1314]

I just did this dowel repair on a vintage handle on my E&S Connie. It’s running the length of the axe below the head. It worked incredible and has held up unreal. I used 1/4 inch

[@BradRitonya]

I've done this several times! It's amazingly strong as well! You would be amazed on what can be fixed! Nicely done!

[@StumptownAxes]

Thanks. I’ve done it a few times myself. Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@user-jz6gh2kt7u]

Very nice working!

[@Chris-ew4bl]

Thanks for sharing. I just finished a handle with some b grade and noticed a similar crack and here pops up this video. I might add a cool laminated dowel or something in there, or a nice dark wood to offset the hickory.

[@StumptownAxes]

That would be a great idea

[@bkdesignr]

very nice work man.

[@StumptownAxes]

Thanks for watching

[@michaellindsay8934]

Thanks for the tip

[@TermiteUSA]

Back up the exit hole with scrap wood and it won't chip out.

[@The-Armed-Pacifist]

Or even a couple layers of masking tape.

[@MrDude2237]

Call me crazy, but could you do like a “striped polka dot” design , say 5 or so down the body with a contrasting wood for looks? If done right it would still be pretty solid no?

[@philipwimberly6330]

I have a handle with 2 long cracks -- maybe 8" visible running the center (between the head and handle swell) of a beautiful old handle. I believe they are the same crack just visible on 2 sides. Any thoughts about how many dowels per inch?

[@StumptownAxes]

Man that is sounding pretty bad. I have only used it for repairs in the lower palm swell. I am not sure I would feel comfortable doing it on long cracks like that.

[@SP6X6]

Or one side could stop short and be blind