Shovel handle as a haft replacement?

[crunky]

Hey guys, I have this hawk head that I have been unable to identify. I want to put a haft on it, but the eye is completely circular. I was thinking I would use my $10 Ace hardware coupon on a shovel handle and see what happens. I imagine a shovel handle may not be the best thing to use as a haft... Has anyone done something similar before, or should I use my coupon on something else?

 

[Shotgun]

If it's a hardwood with good grain it should work fine. Never tried it though I can't think of why it wouldn't work.

 

[crunky]

Oh here are a couple of pictures if anyone is wondering. I'm thinking it could be a homemade piece, but I couldn't really say.

That top pic makes it look like its bent, but its not, at least not that bad. Though, the grind is way off.

 

[ron_m80]

Shovel handles do not flex enough for the impact duty a hawk haft gets imo.

You might try buying one of cold steels handles for around $20.

 

[crunky]

I have thought about using a CS haft, but I own a CS Norse Hawk, and the handle is to flat. I could do some shaping to the CS haft, but it would only contact the eye in two places and leave large gaps on the flatter parts of the haft. Maybe I should buy a sledge or axe handle and reshape them.

 

[Pipeman]

I used a long handle from a banjo shovel, works fine, just line up the grain. I like round eyes a lot, they don't slip nearly as often as egg shaped eyes IMO.

Best regards

Robin

 

[crunky]

Cool thanks Robin. I just picked up a 48" long Hoe handle and cut it down, I will be able to get at least 2 hafts out of this.
Here is where its at so far, next to my Norse hawk:

The shape of the handle lends itself really well to this, I cut about a ~25" section off the end of the handle and took it to my belt sander. I am going to keep the extra length out the top to allow it to settle in more with use. Now I'm off to finish stripping the handle and shape the grip

 

[crunky]

And here it is, 99% complete. Just drying after a coat of beeswax/olive oil mix... I don't know how well that will work lol, but its all I had on hand. I'll let it soak it up overnight and try out some chopping tomorrow.
Then on to making a sheath! :thumbup:

sorry for the crap cell phone pics, I can't find the good camera.