I have found the double bit axe usefull for clean chopping and grubbing. The clean edge is for where there is no risk of rocks or dirt, the other for the wire brush and stuff close to the ground. If the straight handle works on the double bit, why not on the single. I haven't actually tried a straight handle but I am and I will like it! If for no other reason than the ease of making it, so it won't break this time. Unless I find some crazy grain than I may try the traditional looking handle.

Kevin, that is a bad nick. Is the steal extra hard? I am just curious if it passes the file test, will a file cut it or do you need a stone? Tim