What are the different types of wood used for axe handles? expert guide

The choice of wood for the handles of the axe determines 80 % the performance and durability of your equipment. Discover the secrets of wood species axe throwing used by professionals: from the classic hickory ash axe handle at exotic woods axe handle high performance. This guide reveals all about best throwing axe !

The crucial importance of the choice of wood for your handle

Why quality wood axe handles transform your experience

Le wood axe handle quality has a direct impact on your precision, comfort and safety. An unsuitable handle compromises 60 % of your performance and increases the risk of injury by a factor of 5.

Impact of wood on performance :

• Vibration absorption Fatigue reduction of 40-70 % depending on the fuel.
• Natural grip Optimum grip without slipping
• Perfect balance Ideal weight distribution for precision.
• Durability resistance to repeated impacts without cracking.

Fundamental technical criteria :

• Density 0.6-0.8 g/cm³ for optimum balance
• Flexural strength >100 MPa minimum
• Shock absorption Vibration damping capacity
• Dimensional stability resistance to humidity variations

Scientific classification of wood for handles

Hardwood vs. softwood: understanding the fundamental difference

The distinction hardwood axe handle versus softwood does not depend on physical hardness, but on the botanical structure of the tree.

Hardwoods - Technical characteristics :

• Origin Deciduous trees (oak, ash, hickory)
• Density 0.7-1.2 g/cm³ depending on the petrol
• Structure short fibres, complex vessels
• Advantages of sleeves exceptional strength, maximum durability.
• Applications Professional throwing handles for intensive use.

Softwoods - Special features :

• Origin evergreen conifers (pine, fir, spruce)
• Density 0.3-0.6 g/cm³ generally
• Structure long fibres, resin canals
• Benefits lightness, ease of machining, moderate cost.
• Limited applications For beginner training and occasional use.

Comparative mechanical properties

Flexural strength :

• Hardwoods 80-180 MPa (hickory champion to 165 MPa)
• Softwoods 40-90 MPa (Douglas fir: 85 MPa)
• Impact handle resistance to torsion and bending stresses

Modulus of elasticity :

• Hardwoods 10-15 GPa (optimum stiffness)
• Softwoods : 7-12 GPa (excessive flexibility)
• Consequences Precision and control of the throw.

Star essences: a detailed analysis of the champions

Hickory: the undisputed king of professional sleeves

Le hickory ash axe handle is the absolute benchmark. This North American essence combines exceptional performance with centuries-old tradition.

Carya ovata (White Hickory) - Technical details :

• Density 0.82 g/cm³ (perfect equilibrium)
• Flexural strength 165 MPa (record for all gasolines)
• Modulus of elasticity 14.2 GPa (ideal stiffness)
• Grain straight, long fibres interlaced
• Colour creamy white to light brown

Technical advantages of hickory :

• Shock absorption : 95 % vibrations eliminated
• Fatigue resistance 10,000 + impacts without weakening.
• Natural grip Optimum texture without treatment
• Balance perfectly calibrated centre of gravity

Professional applications :

• Official WATL (World Axe Throwing League) competitions
• Intensive throwing rounds (>500 throws/session).
• Extreme conditions (variable humidity, temperature)
• Long-term investment (lifespan 5-10 years, intensive use)

Ash: the European alternative of excellence

Le hickory ash axe handle puts ash in second place worldwide. This European species offers remarkable performance at moderate cost.

Fraxinus excelsior (Common Ash) - Characteristics :

• Density 0.75 g/cm³ (slightly lighter than hickory)
• Flexural strength 135 MPa (excellent performance)
• Elasticity 13.1 GPa (controlled flexibility)
• Grain pronounced straight, parallel fibres
• Colour yellowish white to light brown

Ash technical specifications :

• Optimum flexibility Impact absorption without breaking.
• Easy to work with precision machining, smooth finishes.
• Availability accessible European petrol
• Value for money Performance 90 % hickory, cost -40 %.

Recommended use:

• Amateur to semi-professional pitching
• Low-cost replacement of used handles
• Personalisation (engraving, easy marking)
• Training and apprenticeships

Maple: the North American surprise

L'type of wood axe throwing Maple is gaining in popularity thanks to its high density and remarkable aesthetics.

Acer saccharum (Sugar maple) - Performance :

• Density 0.76 g/cm³ (high compactness)
• Resistance 125 MPa (confirmed strength)
• Hardness 6.4 kN (abrasion resistance)
• Grain fine and regular, sometimes wavy
• Colour creamy white to pinkish brown

Specific advantages of maple :

• Dimensional stability low shrinkage, minimal deformation.
• Aesthetics exceptional natural motifs (curly maple, bramble)
• Durability moisture and fungus resistance
• Versatility Adaptation for all levels of practice.

Walnut: functional elegance

Le exotic wood axe handle includes American walnut, a premium species that combines beauty and performance.

Juglans nigra (American Black Walnut) - Specifications :

• Density 0.65 g/cm³ (light but strong)
• Resistance 110 MPa (excellent performance)
• Unique colour chocolate brown to deep violet
• Grain straight to slightly wavy
• Finish Accepts all varnishes and oils.

Specialist walnut applications :

• Prestige and collection sleeves
• Top-of-the-range personalisation
• Gifts and rewards
• Decorative and functional use

Exotic woods: the frontier of excellence

Exceptional tropical species

The exotic woods Axe handle push back the limits of performance thanks to their unique properties developed under extreme climatic conditions.

Iroko (Milicia excelsa) - The indestructible African :

• Density 0.67 g/cm³ (optimum equilibrium)
• Resistance 140 MPa (close to ash)
• Durability Class 1 (naturally very durable)
• Stability low movement, humidity resistance
• Colour golden yellow to brown, noble patina

Padouk (Pterocarpus soyauxii) - Passion red :

• Density 0.75 g/cm³ (high performance)
• Colour intense orange-red, patina development
• Resistance 125 MPa (solid and durable)
• Aesthetics exceptional, unique beauty
• Rarity : precious essence, limited supply

Bubinga (Guibourtia demeusei) - African luxury :

• Density 0.80 g/cm³ (heavy and compact)
• Colour Purplish pink, contrasting veins
• Resistance 145 MPa (very high performance)
• Exclusive : rare petrol, premium price
• Usage Exceptional sleeves, unique pieces.

Ethical and environmental considerations

Responsible sourcing :

• FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification required.
• Traceability of origin and legal use
• Carbon impact of intercontinental transport
• Equivalent local alternatives preferred

A study by theInstitute forestry technology confirms that local European species offer 85 % the performance of exotic woods with 70 % less environmental impact.

Selection criteria: expert decision-making guide

Choose the wood for your axe handle according to your profile

Beginner profile (< 6 months practical experience) :

• Recommended petrol European ash
• Justification optimal value for money, fault tolerance
• Specifications density 0.70-0.75 g/cm³, length 35-40 cm
• Budget 25-45 € quality handle

Intermediate profile (6 months - 2 years) :

• Recommended petrol : hickory or quality maple
• Justification superior performance, enhanced durability.
• Specifications Grain selection, meticulous finish.
• Budget 45-80 € for excellence.

Expert/competitor profile (> 2 years) :

• Recommended petrol : premium hickory or exotic wood
• Justification maximum performance, customisation.
• Specifications : made-to-measure selection, perfect grain
• Budget 80-200 €+ for absolute excellence.

Technical selection criteria

Visual grain analysis :

• Straight grain Parallel fibres, maximum resistance.
• Irregular grain Avoid knots, cracks and deviations.
• Homogeneous density Uniform colour, no soft spots.
• Natural finish smooth surface, no defects.

Field quality tests :

• Flexion Test Slight bending without cracking.
• Percussion test Clear sound, not muffled (internal crack).
• Moisture test rate 8-12 % optimal for stability.
• Balancing test centre of gravity 1/3 of the way up

Treatment and finishing: optimising properties

Wood treatment for maximum performance

Optimum drying :

• Target humidity level 8-12 % for dimensional stability.
• Natural drying 24-36 months for hardwoods
• Artificial drying precise control, reduced lead times
• Stabilisation eliminating internal tensions

Protective finishes :

• Linseed oil deep penetration, natural protection
• Tung oil Water-resistant, matt finish.
• Polyurethane varnish maximum protection, shine
• Beeswax natural feel, easy maintenance

Maintenance and longevity

Preventive maintenance :

• Regular inspection checking for cracks and wear
• Appropriate cleaning Cleaning: damp cloth, no detergent.
• Re-oiling 2-3 times a year depending on use.
• Optimum storage Dry, stable temperature, aeration

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Innovation and future trends

Emerging wood technologies

Thermally modified wood :

• Processus: high-temperature treatment (160-240°C)
• Benefits increased stability, moisture resistance.
• Applications High-performance sleeves
• Availability : in industrial development

Reinforced composite wood :

• Composition wood fibre + bio-sourced resins
• Properties superior performance and durability.
• Ecology reduced impact, recyclability
• Adoption The cutting-edge innovation sector

Wood 3D printing :

• Material Wood filament + biodegradable binder
• Benefits : total customisation, complex geometries.
• Limitation Less resistance than solid wood.
• Perspective prototyping and special parts

Economy and supply

Market for wood for handles

Average prices per species (40 cm handle) :

• European ash 25-45 € (excellent value for money)
• Hickory standard 45-70 € (world reference)
• Hickory premium 70-120 € (grain selection)
• Quality maple 35-60 € (interesting alternative)
• Exotic woods 80-200 €+ (prestige and performance)

Factors influencing prices :

• Selection quality (grain, defects)
• Geographical origin and traceability
• Applied treatment and finish
• Buying and trading volumes
• Fluctuations in the commodities market

Supply channels

Specialist craftsmen :

• Selection tailored to your needs.
• Personalised technical advice
• Guaranteed quality and traceability
• Prices justified by expert opinion.

Industrial suppliers :

• Standardised production volumes
• Optimised costs, consistent quality.
• High stock availability
• Integrated logistics services

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Specialised applications depending on the context

Professional use and competition

Official competitions WATL :

• Compulsory petrol hickory exclusively.
• Specifications length 14-16 inches, straight grain
• Certification official compulsory marking
• Controls Checking compliance before the tests.

Professional pitching centres :

• Hickory premium sustainability in intensive sessions
• Quality ash A viable economic alternative
• Stock rotation : preventive replacement
• Maintenance Daily job interview

Leisure and learning use

Beginners and occasional users:

• Ash tolerance of technical errors
• Controlled cost A reasonable investment
• Availability accessible European petrol
• Scalability hickory passage according to progression

Collectors and enthusiasts:

• Exotic woods beauty and exclusivity
• Rare species padouk, bubinga, iroko
• Customisation engraving, special marking
• Heritage value generational transmission

Conclusion: choosing your fuel for excellence

The types of wood used for axe fundamentally determine your casting experience. Ash axe handle hickory traditional exotic woods for axe handles Each species has its own unique technical characteristics.

The choice of wood for the axe The optimal choice requires an analysis of your level, intended use, budget and aesthetic preferences. Visit properties wood handle vary considerably depending on the botanical origin and the treatment applied.

Investing in a best throwing axe radically transforms your performance and enjoyment. <a href="/en/%c2%a0%c2%bb/events/birthdays/%c2%a0%c2%bb/">Whether for special celebrations</a> or regular practice, the quality of the handle makes all the difference.

Your next axe deserves the best wood. Are you ready to discover the difference made by the excellence of hickory or the originality of exotic species?