Hello all
Having researched a little on-line and studied several old axes and hatchets, I have concluded that opinion is very much divided as to what is the best direction for end-grain in an axe haft (and indeed, whether it matters at all).
I am in need of some opinions from experienced hafters. Front to back, side to side or radial (as in, with the heart of the wood running through the haft)?
As I have experience in bow making, I would be inclined towards the side to side or even radial designs as these would more easily allow the retention of intact fibres over the whole length of the blade-ward face (or back, in bowyer's terms), improving shock resistance.
Thanks,
Mark
Having researched a little on-line and studied several old axes and hatchets, I have concluded that opinion is very much divided as to what is the best direction for end-grain in an axe haft (and indeed, whether it matters at all).
I am in need of some opinions from experienced hafters. Front to back, side to side or radial (as in, with the heart of the wood running through the haft)?
As I have experience in bow making, I would be inclined towards the side to side or even radial designs as these would more easily allow the retention of intact fibres over the whole length of the blade-ward face (or back, in bowyer's terms), improving shock resistance.
Thanks,
Mark