Oneway vs Bosch vs Peebles Tool Handles

[Jeff Moffett]

I'm thinking about adding some Thompson tools to my collection, and I'd prefer to pair them up with steel/plastic handles for the added weight and comfort. I currently have a Oneway Sure-Grip tool handle (http://www.oneway.ca/tools/handles.htm) that I really like, but I'm also considering either Trent Bosch's handles (http://catalog.trentbosch.com/browseGroup.cfm?item_group_id=87554) or Dave Peebles' handles (http://www.bowlturner.com/). Are all of these handles basically the same or are there some notable differences? Thanks!

[Gordon Seto]

I am also going to make life more difficult for you in making the choice.
The Monster handle from Randy Privett is very nice too (ask for the two grub screws version). I like heavier handle. I have Oneway and Kelton. I just ordered the Monster.
www.monster-wood-tool.com (http://www.monster-wood-tool.com/)
I have never seen and feel the Dave Peeble handle.
Tool handles are personal things, you have to feel them in your hand to know what you really like.

[Neal Addy]

I can't compare the three but I recently bought a Peeble's 16" handle for my Thompson 3/8" detail gouge. It has a nice weight and balance. The vinyl grip is soft enough to cushion the handle but still allows you to "feel the cut". So far I love it and the price certainly beats the competition!

[Andy Hoyt]

I recently got the Hosaluk handle from Packards. Real sweet.

One thing that I really like is that the set screws are sized just right for Oneway's blue allen wrench. Gotta love them Canadians.

[Frank Kobilsek]

Andy

The Blue Oneway wrench fits the Bosch 'purple' 5/8 handle too. I am currently running a double ended 5/8 Oneway bowl gouge in my Bosch handle.

Frank

[Doug Thompson]

I have everything but the Oneway. Each uses 2 set screws to hold the tool in place.

Trent Bosch has a aluminum hollow tube with a vinyl grip, this is light in weight but can be filled with sand or shot to the weight desired.

Dave Peebles handle is a solid 1 inch aluminum core with the vinyl grip, 16 inches long... this is very close to the Oneway. Dave has a new longer handle for the 5/8 tools but I don't know the length.

Monster Tool is a steel tube with a foam grip that will hold up with use and can be replaced for a couple bucks... about 15-1/2 inches long. On each end of the tube is solid stainless that is bored to fit the tool (one end or both) this gives it weight. Randy just came out with a longer handle that should work well with the 5/8 tools. I just talked to Randy the other day the length was 22-1/2 inches??? or close to that.

[David Walser]

As long as we are considering different options, here's one more: the HannesTool handle. Developed and sold by JoHannes Michelsen, the wood hat guy (http://www.woodhat.com/), these handles have a triangular cross section. In theory, the triangular shape fits your hand better than a round handle, is easier to control when turning, and, the tool won't roll off your bench when you set it down. The handle's tube is filled with lead shot and is covered by the soft, molded handle. Here's a link to the HannesTool web page: http://www.hannestool.com/

No, I don't have any financial interest in HannesTool; I'm not even a customer (satisfied or otherwise). I just thought the handles look cool and would like one of you to buy one and report back! :)

[Doug Thompson]

David, it just so happens I have one of them too.

HannesTool - The core is a smaller diameter thick wall aluminum tube with a soft molded handle that fits your hand. The unique thing about this one is the fact the weight is in the back 2/3rds which creates a balance like no other handle made. If you see one pick it up and you'll see what I'm talking about. If you see Johannes Michelsen turning at the Powermatic booth check them out.

[Brian McInturff]

I have 3 of Hannes handles and Doug is correct. Matter of fact you can get one of Doug's tools already paired to a handle from Hannes. I broke down and bought one of the monster 1" bowl gouges. Totally awesome. Oh yeah, the handles, they just fit perfect in your hand. They do provide better control. My go to tools now!

[Doug Thompson]

Brian, did you try that 1 inch tool inside a bowl... on the finish cut. Roll it so the flute is almost closed and watch the fine shavings come off that edge. It's a big U shape gouge.

[Brian McInturff]

Haven't tried it on the inside but I sure will now! Thanks for the tip Doug. Also just received Hannes DVD. Got half way through it last night. Way cool!!