Hold on

Usually when we buy a new tool like a axe or hammer the handle is coated with varnish, a finish that is said to cause blisters. Most of us have gotten into the habit to remove the factory finish by scraping and or sanding. Personal preference I go up to 220 grit paper for most everything. Handle is wiped down with boiled linseed oil and left to dry. Many people and few friends tell me this is too slippery you will wear your hands out trying to hold onto the handle.

My mind wanders off thinking of the age when made a living swinging a axe. How from constant use the grit and oils from these men hands worn the handles of their axes smooth. My Gransfors Bruks small forest axe came with the handle waxed giving it a nice grip but I know a couple hours use will wear this off. A tool handle can be made as rough as someone wants it to be but it will eventually be worked smooth unless that person only has the tool for decoration.

Maybe

So I wonder how much of this advice is pure nonsense that has been past on as useful knowledge and how much was actually put to daily use by the older timers that swung the axe most their lives. As for me and my tools, well I will continue doing the same process until I find something that's needs to be changed through actual use of the tool.

Edit:

I have finally quit sanding the handles to 220 grit and making them to slick to hold onto. 80 grit paper is used to even everything out and remove any rough spots. Handle is wetted down with water to force the grain to rise, once dry 150 grit paper is used to remove the raised grain.