Getting a handle on a viking axe

[heath]

Some of you may have seen my previous post about my new Stefan Ronnqvist axe.

I love it so far, but I'm having a bit of a problem with the handle. The one pictured hasn't really worked out, I made a bit of a mess of wedging it and so I'm going to have to start again, only this time I want to do it using a natural crook. I've written about it on my blog and there are more pictures there. i would love to hear any advice, especially if any of you have done something similar.
Cheers
Heath

http://holtheathwoodentreen.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/trying-to-handle-viking-axe.html

 

[Bri30]

Hi
I have just finished handling the same head.
I had access to an original complete version to copy so that made things easier.

I could trace it out full size and post a template to you if that would help?

Materials wise I used a board of ash with the grain running front to back and cut out the shape from that.

HTH

Brian

 

[heath]

Hi
I have just finished handling the same head.
I had access to an original complete version to copy so that made things easier.

I could trace it out full size and post a template to you if that would help?

Materials wise I used a board of ash with the grain running front to back and cut out the shape from that.

HTH

Brian

That would be fantastic, i'll pm you my address. It would be great to see a pic of your axe.

 

[Bri30]

Will send a tracing asap.
Try for pictures tomorrow night, keep an eye on the thread

Cheers
Brian

 

[Bri30]

Picys a bit late. Couldnt get them to upload from the phone.

Tracing on the way in the morning.

If you want any other info let me know.

Cheers Briian

 

[heath]

That Looks great. Thanks for the pics and thanks in anticipation for the template. How do you get on with the axe?

 

[TinkyPete]

looks great, lovely little axe there

 

[heath]

Template arrived, thanks Brian, you're a star. Just wish it would stop raining long enough for me to start carving.

 

[Bri30]

Hi Heath
Just back (been working away)
I havent used my axe yet just handled it.
Got a sheath started whilst I was away, will put a piccy up when its done.

I have used the axe I copied the handle from a fair bit (belongs to Ben at woodsmoke) and they are great carving tools. I found it strange after the SFA but good enough to buy a head when they came up and now I have had some hours using it I am well impresed with the versatility and efficiency.

I hope to get a bit of use from mine soon.

Cheers
Brian

 

[Setantii-Tim]

Brian or Heath,
Would like a copy of the pattern for the Stefan Ronnqvist axe handle if its possible.
Thanks, Tim

 

[Setantii-Tim]

Well the Stefan Ronnqvist axe head finally arrived this week, all I need now is the diagram of the original handle. Pruned some large branches off an old ash tree in Winter and saved all the ones with a natural bend, hopefully one will make the perfect handle.
Tim

 

[heath]

Sorry, i didn't see the previous post. Are you still after a template of the handle?

 

[Setantii-Tim]

Yes please Heath. I ordered the axe head in February, it only arrived this week. I have got loads of images but only side on, need to know how wide the shaft is, as if you are looking down the face of the blade.
Tim

 

[heath]

The template that Brian sent me was only the profile of the handle. The thickness is really a matter of personal preference and the size of your hand. This axe has really taught me the importance of the handle shape. Pm me your address and I'll send you a template.