Proceed as for socketed tools, but take account of the following points:
- Broken hafts can be removed from the straps by cutting down the centre of the haft. However this does destroy the shaped end of the haft which cannot then be used as a model for the new haft. Where possible, use the drilling method described above. If you do decide to saw down the haft, use a hacksaw when nearing the position of the rivets. Once the rivets are severed they can generally be worked loose and levered out from one side, and then the remaining half can be punched out.
- After removing the old haft, check that the straps are still strong enough to make rehafting worthwhile, as they are of relatively thin metal and tend to rust away faster than the rest of the tool head.
- Most strapped spades, forks and shovels have hafts with curved points. When shaping, clamp them in the vice with the point towards the floor, rather than rotating them as described for socketed tools.
The straps have some flexibility, but the new haft must be shaved down to the same dimensions as the old one. Don’t force an oversized haft into place.
- Once the haft fits correctly between the straps of the tool head, clamp the tool in the vice. The middle hole should be drilled and riveted first, then reposition the tool in the vice and drill out the hole nearest the tool head. Before drilling the final hole (furthest from the blade), it may be necessary to temporarily bind the top of the neck tightly with cord to bring them into contact with the new haft. Remove cord after fitting the rivet.
- To finish off, hammer the exposed edge of the neck to remove the sharp rough edge. Rotate the haft and ‘dress’ the remaining three edges in the same way.
