The Run Down
Hults Bruk replacement handles are a great option for axe maintenance. They’re available everywhere for about $25 and require very little, if any, fitting. One question that keeps coming up time and time again is, “how to choose the right handle that will fit?”
The manufacturer does have a well written guide on handle selection and specific measurements but I wanted to simplify things even more. Without getting into the actual replacement process. Ready?
Literally, pick any length of handle that you prefer. That’s it.
As a rule of thumb, the standard Swedish eye is 2″ by 7/8″. Sometimes 3/4″ wide. That same size has been maintained across brands for around a century now.
Suggested Product: Hults Bruk 28″ Replacement Handle
An Excellent Choice For Vintage Axe Heads
Below is just a small selection of vintage axes that range from 60 to 100 years old. Wetterlings, Urafors, Sater, Hults Bruk and all have the same sized eye. You can see three of them even have factory replacement handles. It’s one of the simplest way’s to get an old axe up and running again.
How About Current Production Axes?
What about a replacement handle for your brand new Swedish axe? How about changing the size and performance of your favorite axe? You could easily put a 19″ Aneby handle on a 2.5lb Kalix. Or upgrade the handle on a Husqvarna forest axe. HB replacement handles will even fit new Gransfors Burks axes. Since GB replacement handles can be difficult to find.
So What Won’t They Fit?
Essentially, the standard range of handles will fit 95% of the Swedish axes out there. For the remaining 5%, Hults Bruk does also make replacement handles for the Arvika, American Felling Axe, Torneo, Etc. Which will fit larger axes. Roughly the same size as an American Boys axe. For axes with smaller eyes, the standard range will still fit but will need considerable fitting to work. Although they do offer a couple handles meant as direct replacements.
Decisions, Decisions.
The hardest part is choosing which handle to use. Hults Bruk has a large selection of replacement handles. Ranging from 16″ to 28″. I’ve seen some great combinations of light heads on long handles, heavy heads on short handles and everything in between. So make sure to check them out.
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