Best Wood For Tool Handles (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for durable and sturdy tool handles that can withstand even the toughest jobs, then choosing the right wood is crucial. The wood used for tool handles plays a significant role in the handle's strength, grip, and overall durability. With so many options out there, it's essential to consider a few factors before making your purchase.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best wood for tool handles is the wood's hardness and density. Hardwoods such as hickory, ash, and oak are a popular choice for their durability and strength. These woods are also resistant to wear and tear and can withstand heavy blows or impacts without breaking. Another aspect to consider is the wood's texture, with a rough or porous texture providing the grip you need to hold onto your tools securely.
Do you need a tool handle that can handle extreme temperatures? If so, you might consider a wood type like cocobolo, which can bear high heat and humidity without deteriorating. Perhaps you are someone looking to carve your tool handles to meet your specific needs. In that case, some woods like balsa might not be ideal. Finally, if you're thinking about aesthetics, woods such as Ebony, Rosewood, or Mahogany may be the best choice.
In conclusion, understanding what factors to consider when choosing the best wood for tool handles will help you make the right decision. Does the wood need to be hard or dense? Does it need to handle extreme heat or humidity? Will it be used for carving or aesthetics? Consider these factors and make the best decision for your tools.
10 Best Wood For Tool Handles
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This product is ideal for woodturning enthusiasts who want durable, efficient, and easily replaceable carbide insert cutting tools.
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2
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This woodturning tool set is ideal for woodworking, specifically for turning and shaping different cuts of wood on lathes.
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3
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Ideal for woodturning and carving, with carbide tools designed for hollowing, roughing, and detailing. Made in USA with comfortable grip handle.
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4
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Ideal for heavy-duty tree felling, cutting wood, and timber with a large 4.5 lb head and 35-inch handle.
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5
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Ideal for digging and cutting through hard soil, roots, and rocks in landscaping and gardening tasks.
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6
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Ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and chopping wood due to its durable and high-quality materials.
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7
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The product is ideal for raking leaves and debris in large outdoor areas.
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8
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The product is ideal for woodturning with three carbide tools and color-coded handles for easy identification.
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9
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The product is ideal for removing weeds with a two prong hoe and a sturdy wooden handle.
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10
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The product is ideal for wood turning and creating precise cuts on hardwoods.
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1. Carbide Lathe Turning Tools With Hardwood Handles
This set of lathe woodturning tools is the perfect choice for those seeking high-quality products that are designed and manufactured entirely in the USA. With its specially designed proprietary replacement carbide cutters, this tool set ensures that you will never have to worry about sharpening your tools again. The carbide cutters have multiple sharp sides, ensuring that they will stay sharp much longer than steel cutters.
This set comes with a 16” maple handle, an 8.5” by 1/2” square CNC machined stainless steel bar, and an overall length of 24.5”. The design of these tools greatly simplifies the learning curve when turning, as there are no complicated angles to learn and remember. This makes them perfect for beginners who are just starting out with woodturning.
In addition to their ease of use, these tools are also highly durable and built to last. The use of high-quality materials in their construction ensures that they can withstand even the toughest woodworking projects. The CNC machining process used in their manufacturing also guarantees a high level of precision and accuracy, ensuring that you can achieve the perfect cut every time.
2. Carbide Lathe Kit: Comfortable & Efficient Woodturning Tools
The Six Carbide Tipped Wood Turning Tools, along with a well-balanced 17" Long Interchangeable Lathe Tool Handle with a Foam Grip, are the perfect addition to any woodworker's toolkit. The set includes a Simple Swan Neck Hollower, specially designed to access areas inside hollow form vessels that are inaccessible with straight shaft tools.
Each tool measures 12" in length and comes with a 2.5" handle tang. Additionally, the set comes with T15 & T20 Torx star tip wrenches, allowing for easy adjustments as needed.
These high-quality tools are proudly made in the USA, in Ramsey, Minnesota, by Harrison Specialties, a family-owned and operated CNC Machine shop with a reputation for excellence.
The tools are easily interchangeable by loosening the allen set screws in the handle, making it simple to switch between tools in the middle of a project.
Investing in this set of carbide tipped wood turning tools is a smart choice for any woodworker looking to achieve precision and accuracy in their craft. The tools are durable, reliable, and built to last, allowing for years of use and enjoyment.
3. Carbide Lathe Trio With Comfy Handle, Usa-Made
Carbide Lathe Tools are a game-changer for woodturning enthusiasts of all skill levels. The benefits of using these tools are immense, as they are designed to make woodturning faster, easier, and more enjoyable. One of the best things about Carbide Lathe Tools is that you don't need to worry about sharpening them. Each tool comes with a very sharp, rotatable carbide cutter that can be easily rotated ¼ turn for a clean, sharp edge. This feature allows you to focus on your project and not on techniques or sharpening, making the whole process less daunting.
The Simple Turner & Hollower is one of the simplest carbide tools available in the market, and it is designed to make turning and hollowing projects quick and easy. The Simple Rougher carbide tool is another great product that makes roughing much simpler and less physical. It absorbs most of the shock created by interrupted cuts in the tool rest instead of your hands and arms, providing a much smoother experience. The Simple 55 Detailer carbide tool is perfect for those who want to take their woodturning creativity to the next level.
The handle of these Carbide Lathe Tools is made of premium quality solid aluminum, and it is 100% USA made by American craftsmen. The handle is CNC machined from aircraft aluminum, providing balance, durability, and longevity. The handle is covered with a soft, comfortable foam rubber grip to reduce hand cramping during long turning sessions. The overall length is 17", and the outside diameter is 1 3/8". The tool opening is ½" diameter, and the tools can be easily changed by loosening the two stainless steel set screws.
The full-size tools are CNC machined from ½” square stainless steel, making them stronger, stiffer, and less likely to roll than round shaft tools. Stainless steel will never rust and will last for years. These professional full-size tools feature an overall length of 12", with a handle tang of ½" diameter x 2½" length, providing a comfortable and sturdy grip.
Each Simple Woodturning Tool is engraved, making it easy for you to identify the tool you have. This feature makes finding replacement cutters very simple! Look for authentic Simple Woodturning Tool replacement cutters. STH = Simple Turner and Hollower. SR = Simple Rougher. S55D = Simple 55° Detailer.
4. German-Made Expedition Axe: Heavy-Duty Tree Felling Tool
The Expedition axe from Helko Werk is a heavy-duty, handmade tool that is designed for serious work. With its massive size and impressive striking power, this axe is ideal for those who need a reliable and durable tool to help them tackle the toughest jobs.
The Expedition axe features a 4 ½ pound head that is made from German C50 high-grade carbon steel, which has a hardness rating of 53-56 HRC. This steel is drop forged by hand to ensure precision and accuracy in the forging process, resulting in a high-quality axe head that is built to last. The head is also highly polished to prevent rust and reduce cutting friction.
The handle of the Expedition axe is made from grade A American hickory that is sustainably sourced. Each handle is individually hand finished and selected for grain orientation and density to ensure the best possible quality. The handle is finished with boiled linseed oil and sanded to a smooth 150 grit finish, making it comfortable to hold and easy to grip.
To protect the blade and head of the axe, Helko Werk includes a vegetable-tanned premium leather sheath with each Expedition axe. Additionally, a 1 oz bottle of Axe Guard Protective Oil is included to help maintain the steel of the axe head and prevent rust over time.
The Expedition axe has a total weight of 6 ½ pounds and a length of 35 inches, making it a substantial tool that requires a controlled operator. However, for those who are up to the challenge, this axe is fully capable of clearing large areas and providing wood for heating.
5. Truper 31618 5-Pound Cutter Mattock With Wood Handle
Looking for a versatile tool that can handle a variety of tough outdoor jobs? Look no further than the 5-pound cutter/mattock head combo. With its sturdy construction and impressive power, this tool is ideal for anyone who needs to tackle challenging tasks like cutting through shrub and tree roots or digging through stubborn soil.
One of the standout features of this cutter/mattock combo is its 36-inch North American hardwood handle. This high-quality handle is designed to provide a comfortable grip and a reliable, sturdy platform for the tool head. Plus, it comes equipped with a shock-absorbent "poly" guard that helps protect against overstrike damage, ensuring that your tool will last for years to come.
Of course, the real star of the show here is the cutter/mattock head itself. With a weight of five pounds and a sharp, durable blade, this tool can easily chew through even the most stubborn soil and roots. Whether you're working on a landscaping project, clearing land, or just maintaining your property, this cutter/mattock head is sure to become one of your go-to tools.
So why wait? If you're looking for a high-quality cutter/mattock head that can handle whatever you throw at it, be sure to stock up on Truper tools today. With their reputation for durability and reliability, these tools are sure to become an essential part of your outdoor toolkit.
6. Council Tool 2# Wood-Craft Pack Axe, 24" Hickory Handle
This high-quality axe is a must-have tool for any outdoor enthusiast. With an overall weight of 2.75 lbs, it is lightweight and easy to wield, making it perfect for chopping and splitting wood. The head of the axe weighs in at 2 lbs, providing ample weight for powerful swings and efficient cuts.
Crafted from 5160 American Steel, this axe is built to last. The steel is known for its durability and ability to hold a sharp edge, ensuring that this axe will remain a reliable tool for years to come. The 24" American hickory handle adds to the durability of this axe, providing a sturdy grip that can withstand heavy use.
Whether you are camping, hiking, or just need a reliable tool for your backyard, this axe is the perfect choice. Its lightweight design and powerful cutting ability make it ideal for a variety of tasks, while the high-quality materials ensure that it will stand up to even the toughest conditions.
Investing in a high-quality axe like this one is a smart choice for anyone who spends time outdoors. With its superior craftsmanship and durable materials, this axe is sure to become a go-to tool for all of your outdoor adventures.
7. Truper 31383 Tru Tough Level Head Rake, 16 Teeth, Wood Handle, 60-Inch
Introducing the Tru-tough 16 Teeth Rake – an exceptional tool designed to make your gardening tasks a breeze. This rake boasts a sturdy 60-inch North American Ash handle that has been lacquered for added strength and durability, ensuring it can withstand even the toughest of garden tasks. The 16 teeth rake head is made with sturdy materials that can handle heavy-duty tasks with ease.
The clear-coated gray-steel finished heads give the rake an attractive aesthetic that is sure to complement any garden style. Additionally, the rake is incredibly easy to maintain. Simply spray it clean with a garden hose and coat it with silicone spray for added protection and longevity.
The Tru-tough 16 Teeth Rake is part of Truper's best-selling signature tool line, so you can trust that it has been crafted with the highest quality materials and attention to detail. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this rake is an excellent choice for creating a pristine and well-manicured garden.
With its impressive parameters and specifications, this rake is sure to exceed your expectations. Its 60-inch length provides ample reach, while the 16 teeth rake head makes quick work of even the most stubborn debris. The clear-coated gray-steel finish adds a touch of elegance to the rake, making it a beautiful addition to any garden shed.
8. Carbide Wood Turning Set With Color-Coded Handles
Harrison Specialties, a family-owned CNC machining and manufacturing company based in Ramsey, Minnesota, produces these top-notch carbide turning tools. The tools come in a variety of colors, with solid aluminum handles that are color-coded for easy selection. Each handle is CNC machined and powder coated, with an outside diameter of 1-1/8" and an overall length of 12".
The carbide turning tools feature ultra-sharp replaceable tips, which have multiple sides that can be rotated for extended use. Additionally, the included Torx wrench makes replacing or turning the cutters a breeze, eliminating the need for tool sharpening.
With a 3/8" square shaft, these tools are designed to stay flat on the tool rest, making them ideal for woodturning. The overall length of the turning tool is 9", providing a comfortable and easy-to-use experience.
By simplifying the process of woodturning and eliminating the need for any sharpening equipment, these carbide turning tools are a great investment for both novice and experienced woodturners. And with their high-quality construction and American-made origin, customers can rest assured that they are getting a product that is both reliable and durable.
9. Truper 30014 Tru Tough 54-Inch Two Prong Weeding Hoe, Wood Handle
Introducing the Truper 30014 A2C-E Hoe, a high-quality gardening tool designed to make weeding a breeze. This hoe features a durable 54-inch North American ash handle that has been lacquered for added strength and durability. The handle is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip while working in the garden.
The hoe head is made of clear-coated gray-steel, giving it a sleek and stylish look. The head is designed to easily uproot weeds, making it an ideal tool for gardeners of all levels. The clear-coated finish helps to prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring that the hoe will last for years to come.
Cleaning the Truper 30014 A2C-E Hoe is a breeze. Simply spray it down with a garden hose and coat it with silicone spray to help protect it from the elements. This easy maintenance routine ensures that the hoe will remain in top condition for years to come.
Truper's signature tool line, Tru-Tough, is known for its high-quality design and durability. The Truper 30014 A2C-E Hoe is one of their best-selling tools and is a favorite among gardeners worldwide. With its sturdy construction, comfortable grip, and effective weeding capabilities, this hoe is a must-have for any gardener looking to keep their garden in top shape.
10. Replaceable Carbide Finisher For Effortless Woodturning
If you're looking for the highest quality woodturning tools, look no further than this product, which is 100% designed and manufactured in the USA. The tool comes with an installed Ci3 round proprietary carbide cutter, which means you'll never have to sharpen it again. Carbide cutters have 4 sharp sides, so they stay sharp many times longer than hardened steel.
The lathe woodturning tool features a 9" maple handle and a 3.5" by 3/8" square CNC machined black oxide steel bar, resulting in a 12.5" overall length. This tool greatly simplifies the learning curve when turning, as there are no complicated angles to learn and remember.
Best Wood For Tool Handles FAQs
Can recycled or reclaimed wood be used for tool handles?
Yes, recycled or reclaimed wood can be used for tool handles. In fact, using reclaimed wood for tool handles is a sustainable and eco-friendly option as it reduces waste and prevents the need for new wood to be harvested. However, it is important to ensure that the reclaimed wood is strong and durable enough to withstand the pressure and force applied during tool use. The wood should also be free from any defects or weaknesses that could compromise its strength. Additionally, the reclaimed wood should be properly treated and finished to prevent rot and decay. Working with reclaimed wood can require some extra effort and attention to detail, but the end result can be a beautiful and unique tool handle that is both functional and environmentally responsible.
How do you choose the right wood species for a specific type of tool?
Choosing the right wood species for a specific type of tool depends on various factors such as the tool's purpose, frequency of use, and the wood's properties. For instance, if you're making a hammer handle, you'll want a wood species with high density and shock resistance, such as hickory or ash. For carving tools, a species with fine grain and workability, like basswood or cherry, is ideal.
It's also essential to consider the wood's availability and cost. Some woods, such as ebony or rosewood, may be desirable for their aesthetic appeal, but they can be expensive and rare, making them difficult to source.
Another consideration is the wood's sustainability. It's crucial to choose wood species that are harvested responsibly and have minimal impact on the environment.
Ultimately, the right wood species for a specific type of tool will depend on a combination of factors, including the tool's intended use, the wood's properties, availability, cost, and sustainability. It's essential to carefully consider these factors and choose a wood species that meets your needs and aligns with your values.
How do you properly care for and maintain wooden tool handles?
Wooden tool handles require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and durability. The following steps can help you properly care for and maintain your wooden tool handles:
1. Keep the handles dry: Moisture can cause wooden handles to swell and crack, so it is important to keep them dry. After use, wipe the handles with a dry cloth and store them in a dry place.
2. Protect the handles: Wooden handles are vulnerable to scratches, dents, and other damage, so it is important to protect them from impact. Store your tools in a secure location where they will not be knocked around.
3. Apply a protective coating: To prevent the wood from drying out and cracking, apply a protective coating of linseed oil or boiled linseed oil to the handles. This will also help to repel moisture and protect the wood from damage.
4. Sand the handles: Over time, wooden handles may become rough and splintered. To smooth out the surface, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the handles. Be sure to sand with the grain to avoid damaging the wood.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your wooden tool handles remain in good condition and provide you with many years of reliable use.
How does the grain orientation of the wood affect the strength of a tool handle?
The grain orientation of the wood is a critical factor in determining the strength of a tool handle. The orientation of the grain refers to the direction in which the wood fibers run through the handle. A tool handle with the grain oriented parallel to the length of the handle is stronger than one with the grain running perpendicular to the handle's length.
When the grain runs parallel to the length of the handle, it provides the handle with greater tensile strength, which means it can resist pulling forces. This orientation also allows the handle to flex and bend slightly under stress, making it more comfortable and easier to grip. On the other hand, when the grain runs perpendicular to the handle's length, it provides less tensile strength and is more prone to cracking or splitting under stress.
In summary, when selecting a wood for a tool handle, it is essential to consider the grain orientation to ensure the handle can withstand the stresses it will encounter during use. A handle with a well-oriented grain will provide greater strength and durability, helping to extend the life of the tool and ensure user safety.
How important is the weight of the wood in relation to the weight of the tool for tool handle selection?
The weight of the wood in relation to the weight of the tool is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a tool handle. The handle should be strong enough to support the weight of the tool, but not so heavy that it becomes burdensome to use. A handle that is too light can also be a problem as it may not provide the necessary support and stability required to use the tool effectively.
When selecting a tool handle, it is important to consider the type of tool, the intended use, and the user's individual needs and preferences. For heavier tools, such as axes and sledgehammers, a heavier handle may be necessary to provide the necessary support and balance. For lighter tools, such as hammers and screwdrivers, a lighter handle may be more appropriate.
It is also important to consider the type of wood used in the handle. Hardwoods, such as hickory and ash, are typically preferred for tool handles as they are strong and durable. Softwoods, such as pine and cedar, may be used for lighter tools, but are generally not recommended for heavy-duty use.
Overall, selecting the right tool handle is essential for ensuring safety, comfort, and effectiveness when using tools.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when selecting wood for tool handles?
When selecting wood for tool handles, there are several common mistakes that should be avoided to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the tool. One mistake is selecting wood that is too soft, as it will not withstand the pressure and force applied during use and will quickly wear down or break. Another mistake is selecting wood with irregular grain patterns, as it can weaken the handle and cause it to split or break. It is important to also avoid selecting wood with knots, as they can act as stress points and cause the handle to break. Additionally, selecting wood that is too dry or too wet can also cause problems, as dry wood is brittle and prone to breaking, while wet wood can warp and shrink over time. It is recommended to select dense, straight-grained hardwoods such as hickory, ash, or oak for tool handles, as they are strong and durable.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using hardwood versus softwood for tool handles?
When it comes to choosing the right wood for tool handles, there are several factors to consider. Hardwoods and softwoods are the two main types of wood used for tool handles, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of hardwood:
– Hardwoods are generally denser and more durable than softwoods, making them ideal for heavy-duty tools that require a lot of strength and resistance to wear and tear.
– Hardwoods are less likely to warp or splinter over time, which means that they can provide a more stable and comfortable grip for longer periods of time.
– Hardwoods can be more aesthetically pleasing than softwoods, with a rich and varied grain pattern that can add to the overall look and feel of the tool.
Disadvantages of hardwood:
– Hardwoods can be more expensive than softwoods, which can make them less accessible to those on a tight budget.
– Hardwoods can be more difficult to work with than softwoods, which means that it may be more challenging to shape and finish them to the desired specifications.
Advantages of softwood:
– Softwoods are generally more lightweight and easy to work with than hardwoods, which can make them a good choice for tools that require a delicate touch or a high degree of precision.
– Softwoods are often less expensive than hardwoods, which can make them a more accessible option for those on a tight budget.
– Softwoods can be more readily available than hardwoods, which means that they may be easier to source locally.
Disadvantages of softwood:
– Softwoods are generally less durable than hardwoods, which means that they may not hold up as well over time, especially with heavy use.
– Softwoods can be more prone to warping and splintering than hardwoods, which can make them less comfortable to hold and use for extended periods of time.
– Softwoods may not be as aesthetically pleasing as hardwoods, with a less distinct grain pattern and a lighter color that may not appeal to everyone.
What are the characteristics of wood that make it suitable for tool handles?
Wood is a popular choice for tool handles due to its unique characteristics that make it suitable for this purpose. One of the most important characteristics of wood is its strength and durability. Tool handles need to be able to withstand heavy use and pressure, and wood is a natural material that can provide this strength. Additionally, wood is relatively lightweight, which is important for making tools that are easy to handle and maneuver.
Another characteristic of wood that makes it suitable for tool handles is its ability to absorb shock. Tools like hammers and axes can create a lot of vibration when they are used, and wood can help to absorb this shock and prevent it from causing damage to the user's hand or arm. Wood is also a good insulator, which means that it can help to protect the user from hot or cold temperatures.
Finally, wood is a natural material that is easy to work with. It can be carved, shaped, and sanded to create a comfortable grip that is tailored to the user's needs. Wood also has a natural beauty that can add to the aesthetic appeal of a tool. Overall, these characteristics make wood an excellent choice for tool handles.
What are the types of wood finishes that can be used to protect tool handles and enhance their appearance?
There are several types of wood finishes that can be used to protect tool handles and enhance their appearance.
One popular option is a clear varnish or polyurethane finish, which creates a hard, glossy surface that protects the wood from moisture and wear. This type of finish is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts.
Another option is a penetrating oil finish, which soaks into the wood to provide moisture protection and a natural-looking finish. This type of finish requires more maintenance than a varnish or polyurethane finish, but can be easily reapplied as needed to keep the tool handle looking its best.
For those who prefer a more rustic look, a wax or oil-based finish can be used to enhance the natural beauty of the wood while still providing some protection against moisture and wear. These finishes require more frequent maintenance than varnish or oil finishes, but can be easily applied with a cloth or brush.
Ultimately, the type of wood finish you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the level of protection and maintenance you require for your tool handles.
Which types of wood are commonly used for tool handles?
There are several types of wood that are commonly used for tool handles, each with its own unique properties and benefits. One of the most popular woods used for tool handles is hickory, which is known for its strength, durability, and shock resistance. Other popular options include ash, oak, and maple, all of which are also strong and durable. These woods are often preferred because they are readily available, affordable, and easy to work with. In addition to their strength and durability, many types of wood used for tool handles have a natural grip and are comfortable to hold, making them ideal for long periods of use. It is important to choose a type of wood that is appropriate for the specific tool and use, as well as one that is well-suited to the user's individual needs and preferences.
