How to Fix Garden Tool Handles

Just because the handle has cracked doesn't mean you have to bid good-bye to your favorite rake, hoe or shovel. Substituting a new wooden handle for the old one is easy--and much less expensive than replacing a good tool.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Replacement Wooden Handle
• Wood Rasp
• Punch
• Bench Vise
• Electric Drill
• Galvanized Wood Screw
• Hammer
• Punch
• Screwdriver
• Smooth File

1. Take the broken tool to a hardware store or garden center and buy a replacement handle.

2. Clamp the tool blade in a bench vise.

3. Wriggle the handle out of the hasp or, if necessary, split the wood using an electric drill and pick out the pieces.

4. If the handle is fastened to the hasp by a rivet, file off the head. Then drive it through, using a hammer and punch.

5. For a wedged-in shovel handle, insert a punch through the hole at the bottom of the hasp and pound with a hammer.

6. Insert the new handle. (If necessary, file away some of the wood to make it fit.) Then, holding the tool by the working end, tap the handle on the ground until it slides into the hasp.

7. Drill through the rivet hole (if there is one) and into the new handle. Insert a galvanized wood screw that is slightly shorter than the diameter of the hasp.

Tips & Warnings

• Resist the temptation to repair a broken handle. The result will be weak, and protruding screws, bolts or nails can injure your hands.