Thanks Stanley for your very detailed descriptions and advice. This is my first attempt. The next will have a bit more swell to the butt end. The wood, American sycamore, may be too soft in the long run. Time will tell if the head loosens. Haven’t used it much yet. Having put off doing this too long and I used what wood I had. Now knowing how simple it is to do I won’t hesitate to make others. No wedges . Tried your diluted varnish method and like it so far. I usually use diluted boiled linseed oil on handles. Don't know why the photo is rotated.PaulIMG_1197.jpg