Mattock heads and handles can both be bought separately, so should the handle break or wear loose, or the head become damaged, then there is no need to go out and buy a whole new tool.
This also enables you to fit a lighter or heavier head in order to achieve the mattock weight that is most comfortable for you.
The head of a mattock is normally held in place solely on the taper at the top of the handle.
This can have a rubber surface on some fibreglass handles to improve the grip on the metal mattock head.
However, some people like to put a screw just under the mattock head on wooden handles to prevent the head from moving.
Replacing a mattock head or handle
The process of replacing the head or handle of a mattock is the same.
If the handle and head of the old mattock are still attached the first step is to separate them.
Step 1 – Remove the head
To remove the tool head, hold it with both hands and bang the thin end of the handle against a wooden board placed on a solid flat surface, until the head moves far enough down the handle to separate.
Step 2 – Replace the head
Begin by holding the handle so the wider tapered end is resting on the ground.
Then place the base of the handle through the top of the mattock head eye and slide the head down from the narrow base of the handle to the wider, tapered section.
Step 3 – Secure the head
Once the mattock head is sat on the tapered section of the handle, hold the thin end then raise it and firmly hit the wedged end of the handle onto a firm solid base.
Repeat this several times and it will secure the mattock head to the tapered part of the handle.
Once secured in place, the mattock head should hold firm and the force of using it will actually help keep the head in place on the handle.
You should check to see that the head is secure before you use your mattock. If it is loose, repeat step 3.