<HTML style="FONT-SIZE: medium; FONT-FAMILY: AGaramond Bold"><HEAD> <META http-equiv=Content-Type content="text/html; charset=windows-1251"> <META content="MSHTML 6.00.2800.1522" name=GENERATOR></HEAD> <BODY> <P> <DIV>For all the time and effort it would take to fix the original handle, I'd opt to make a new one, (out of Rosewood, of course), with the grain orientation the right direction, (veritcally). For the life of me, I can't figger why they chose that grain orientation!???? This is a common problem with Stanley Planes. Unless it is a "collectable"/"Valuble" one, it'd be a new handle. (Fancier, of course.<G>) I have several and that's what I've done on a couple of them. Another "go figger": I have one of their "economy" planes from the early 60's. It doesn't have Rosewood, but a simple Hardwood, painted black. On that one the grain Orientation is correct and hence has not busted! On the one that I'd really like to put on a fancier handle! Go Figger!<G></DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Joe Garrett, R.P.T. (Oregon)</DIV> <DIV>Captain, Tool Police</DIV> <DIV>Squares R I</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <P></P></BODY></HTML>