Quick answer
Lash your axe handle with paracord to improve grip, add shock absorption, and carry emergency cordage. Use a tight, even wrap with a secure finish knot.
Why lash an axe handle with paracord?
A paracord wrap adds a layer of grip that stays secure even when your hands are wet or cold. It also cushions impact and protects the handle from dings and scratches. Plus, you always have several feet of strong cordage on hand for camp tasks, repairs, or emergencies.
The trade-off: paracord can trap moisture against the wood if not dried after use, which may shorten handle life. Remove the wrap occasionally to let the handle dry completely.
Choosing the right paracord
Standard 550 paracord works well for most axes. It's strong, lightweight, and has a woven nylon sheath that holds knots. For a thicker grip, use 750 cord or double-wrap the handle. Avoid cheap cord that frays or stretches under load.
A 6-foot length is enough for a typical hatchet or camp axe. A full-size axe may need 8–10 feet. The Velvicut Hudson Bay Camp Axe from SPD has an 18-inch handle that takes about 7 feet for a tight wrap.
When to replace the wrap
Check your lashing before each trip. Replace it if the cord is frayed, the knot is loose, or the wrap has shifted. A fresh wrap takes only 15 minutes and gives you reliable grip and emergency cord.
How to lash an axe handle with paracord
- Prepare the cord and handle: Cut 7 feet of 550 paracord. Melt the ends with a lighter to prevent fraying. Clean and dry the handle area you want to wrap. A dirty or oily handle lets the wrap slip. Wipe it down with alcohol first.
- Secure the starting end: Lay the cord along the handle, leaving a 4-inch tail toward the head. Wrap the working end over the tail and the handle, covering the tail as you go. This locks the start without a knot. If the tail pokes out, the wrap will loosen. Keep it flat and covered.
- Wrap tightly and evenly: Wind the cord around the handle with firm, even tension. Each wrap should sit snug against the previous one. Overlap by half the cord width for a dense layer. Uneven gaps weaken the grip. If you see a gap, unwind and redo that section.
- Finish with a secure knot: When you reach the desired length, tie two half-hitches over the last wrap. Pull tight and trim the excess cord to 1/4 inch. Melt the cut end to seal it. A single half-hitch can slip. Always use two, and test the knot by pulling hard.
- Test and adjust: Grip the wrapped area and swing the axe a few times. If the wrap shifts, redo it with tighter tension. If it feels good, you're done. A loose wrap is dangerous. Re-wrap if there's any movement.
Gear used in this guide
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SPD X Velvicut® Hudson Bay Camp Axe: The SPD X Velvicut Hudson Bay Camp Axe has a 2-pound head and an 18-inch handle, with a total weight of about 2-3/4 pounds. Its compact size and weight make it ideal for packing, and the 18-inch handle is long enough for a secure paracord wrap that improves grip without adding bulk.
SPD X Velvicut® Hudson Bay Camp Axe