Replacement tackle box handle...?

[Aiala]

I have a Butch Green wooden long-range tackle box which I love, it's similar to this:



Thing is, I would like to replace the handle assembly (it's exactly like this) and for the life of me I cannot find a source to buy one. Can any of you experts help me?

Thanks so much!

~A~

[STRIPER LOU]

Hi Aiala, Maybe came off a luggage piece?
Good luck with the hunt!
..............lou

[Keta]

Does it have to be the same or just close?

[foakes]

Aiala --

Show us some pics of yours -- showing what is broken and needing replacement.

Those old Butch Green long range boxes have a good handle -- but likely the source he got his from is no more.

They are very strong with the SS "U-Bar & pivot pins" -- but the plastic handle and knuckle guard are the weak points.

If you cannibalized another box, number one it would be a shame -- and number two, you would likely have the same issues with the replacement handle.

I might consider adapting a SS or brass handle to the U-Bar -- along with a wood knuckle guard underneath.

One could even install hypalon covering over the grip for added comfort -- or something similar.

Mr. Mayo may have an idea or two.

With an idea of what you would like to accomplish -- and what you would be willing to do -- along with some pics and your thoughts -- someone here can likely help.

Butch Green made some very good boxes for the Southern Cal trips.

Best,

Fred
   

[Aiala]

Thanks for the quick replies, guys... much appreciated!   

Fred, here is my handle:



I believe it is structurally sound, I'm mostly dealing with rust issues (I've cleaned it up as best I can) but the main thing is I am missing that knuckle guard. As it happens I do have another box to temporarily cannibalize (I bought it for my son-in-law) and I've taken the knuckle guard from that one. Still, if I could find somewhere to buy a few spare handles, I'd certainly go for it. In the meantime, though, I should be okay for the SOA trip.   

~A~

[foakes]

First thought, Aiala --

You have cleaned it up pretty good --

Might try the Dremel a little more with some fine wire brush -- then a little "0000" steel wool -- then a little patience and Never Dull while watching a mind numbing sitcom.

If it were mine -- since the handle seems intact...

A woodworker could make a piece for the knuckle guard out of a durable tropical wood that would resist moisture well. Then apply a marine spar type finish.

Then just epoxy or Gorilla glue the piece in place.

I would also go to a good hardware store to get some new SS screws, backup SS interior washers, and SS rounded locking acorn nuts or regular locking SS nuts.

Just some ideas.

Best,

Fred

[Aiala]

Fred, those are excellent suggestions, as usual. Thank you! 

~A~

[Rancanfish]

I'm finding 'Ace is the Place' really is true when looking for special stainless hardware.

Home Depot, Lowes, OSH all have generic sizes and not much variety.

[foakes]

Aiala --

If this wood knuckle guard route is one you would like to try out -- no use paying for any wood.

I keep all of my scraps from various projects -- and do have some exotic tropical pieces that you are welcome to.

These include: Olive, Heart Rosewood, Cocobolo, Gonçalo Alves, and Kingwood.

4 out of 5 of these are very dense and heavy tropicals.  As such, they are very durable in moisture conditions, due to the denseness of their grain.  As a matter of fact, just a 11.5 X 3 X 7/8 piece of Cocobolo weighs over a pound and a quarter.

You may already have a local source, or may decide to go another route with the knuckle guard -- but if you want a piece or two of these -- you can have your choices -- just let me know and I will send them out.

Best,

Fred