Well, I have been happy with the quality of all the Gransfors, Hultafors and Wetterlings that I have handled, certainly from a handle point of view. I have heard some people complain that the particular example they mail ordered wasn't as good as expected, but then I have also heard experienced people state that the grain orientation, which so irks some, isn't as important as is often suggested. So, a Google search for "Gransfors hickory hanldes" turns up a number, some of which sell handles for a number of premium and semi-premium brands. Other shops sell Smedberg handles, which can certainly be good.
As for reliability. My experience has been that
Keep your axes in good condition with our range of sharpening stones and files, and replacement sheaths and handles, all genuine Gransfors spares.
www.greenwood-direct.co.uk
Despite being a relatively simple tool, axes do need access to a small number of Axe Spares to keep them working safely and give them a long life
www.woodsmithexperience.co.uk
Genuine Hickory Gransfors Bruks replacement shafts for their axe range. Comes as a complete kit including the shaft, wedge and pin. Can be easily fitted at home.
www.nordicoutdoor.co.uk
Replacement handles for the Gransfors axes. Hickory handles have been treated with a warm linseed oil and beeswax. Each handle comes with a wedge. More information on how to fit your handle can be found on the Gransfors Bruks website.
www.classichandtools.com
have all been excellent to deal with.
Good suppliers are the norm, rather than the exception. Of course, I guess it depends what one means by "good", I have not had to call and talk to anyone at any of those, other than Greenwood, so couldn't say how their over-the-phone advice on tool selection is, but email questions have always been answered well and promptly and goods have always arrived safely and swiftly.