Merkus spade handle or Betuwe clay spade handle ATLAS made of ash wood, 110 cm long, equipped with a smooth, tapered point and a strong through-mount T-grip. This handle is suitable for a Betuwe clay spade.
ATLAS Merkus spade handles are made from ash rootstock, which contains the best wood. Ash wood is tough, shock-resistant, and strong. The ash wood undergoes two drying processes: during the first drying process, sawn ash wood planks are air-dried. During the second process, the ash wood is computer-controlled re-dried in a climate chamber. Because of this re-drying, the handle does not shrink and the tool stays firmly attached to the handle.
Next, the spade handles are bent in boiling water. This allows the wood grain or fiber in the handle to bend along with it and prevents the grain from running out of the handle (a running grain is weaker). The bending process makes the handle extremely strong.
Finally, the ATLAS handles are waxed with plant-based Carnauba. This ensures that the wood can breathe, does not absorb water or dirt, and retains its beautiful natural color. Waxing provides a longer service life and a pleasantly smooth handle, which helps prevent blisters. In addition, plant-based waxing of handles is better for the environment than using varnish or paraffin.
ATLAS spade handles are manufactured entirely carbon-neutral in the Netherlands and are available in various lengths and versions.
