Striking tool with vibration reduction

Abstract

A striking tool may include a head that may extend along a lateral axis and may have at least one contact portion for delivering an impact, a handle that may be operably coupled to the head and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis, and a core member that may be encased by the handle and may also extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis. The handle may operably couple to the head at approximately a midpoint of the head disposed at the longitudinal axis. The core member may extend into an orifice in the head and through at least a portion of the head.

Description

[0001] AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0002] STRIKING TOOL WITH VIBRATION REDUCTION

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] Example embodiments generally relate to striking tools, and in particular, relate to the striking tool having vibration reduction.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Striking tools have been around for a very long time. While striking tools are commonly used in numerous contexts to deliver an impact onto a target object, they may come in many forms and may be used for different purposes. For example, a hammer / sledgehammer may be used to either drive one object into another, or perhaps to demolish a target object by delivering repeated impacts. On the other hand, an axe may be used to cut through a target object by delivering repeated impacts to the same target object with more precision than a sledgehammer. Regardless, striking tools are used in many contexts, and are a form of tool that has been in use by humans for many thousands of years.

[0007] Due to the scenarios in which striking tools may often be used, these tools may be operated with great force and, sometimes for long durations of time, in order to accomplish a desired task. Accordingly, striking tools may often be subjected to harsh operating conditions, which may not only take a toll on the striking tool itself, but may also affect the operator of the striking tool as well. In this regard, it may be desirable to design the operable coupling between the head and the handle of the striking tool to be more resilient and to better isolate the operator from harsh forces and vibrations.

[0008] BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLES

[0009] In an example embodiment, a striking tool may be provided. The striking tool may include a head that may extend along a lateral axis and may have at least one contact portion for delivering an impact, a handle that may be operably coupled to the head and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis, and a core member that may be encased by the handle and may also extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis. The handle may operably couple to the head at approximately a midpoint of the head disposed at the longitudinal axis. The core member may extend into an orifice in the head and through at least a portion of the head. AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0010] In another example embodiment, a handle for a striking tool may be provided. The striking tool may include a head which may extend along a lateral axis and may have at least one contact portion for delivering an impact. The handle may include a beam portion which may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis and a core member which may be encased within the handle and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis. The handle may operably couple to the head approximately at a midpoint of the head disposed at the longitudinal axis. The core member may extend into an orifice in the head and through at least a portion of the head.

[0011] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) Having thus described some example embodiments in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a left side view of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 3a illustrates a close up perspective view of the first end of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 3b illustrates a close up front view of the first end of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 4a illustrates a close up front section view of the first end of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 4b illustrates a close up section view of the handle of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a close up left side view of the first end of the striking tool with the handle removed for visibility in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the first end of the striking tool with the handle removed for visibility in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the head and overstrike protection assembly in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom view of the head and overstrike protection assembly in accordance with an example embodiment; AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the handle in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective section view of the handle in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates a close up perspective view of the first end of the handle in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 12 illustrates a close up perspective view of the engagement interface in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates a close up perspective view of the beam of the handle proximate to the engagement interface in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 15 illustrates a left side view of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 16 illustrates a close up exploded perspective view of the first end of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 17 illustrates a close up perspective view of the engagement interface of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 18 illustrates an isolated perspective view of the head of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0032] FIG. 19 illustrates a left side section view of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 20 illustrates a close up front section view of the first end of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0034] FIG. 21 illustrates a close up perspective section view of the engagement interface of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective section view of the handle of the striking tool from FIG. 14 in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0036] FIG. 23 illustrates a left side view of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment; and

[0037] FIG. 24 illustrates a left side view of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment. AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Some example embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all example embodiments are shown. Indeed, the examples described and pictured herein should not be construed as being limiting as to the scope, applicability or configuration of the present disclosure.

[0040] Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “or” is to be interpreted as a logical operator that results in true whenever one or more of its operands are true. As used herein, operable coupling should be understood to relate to direct or indirect connection that, in either case, enables functional interconnection of components that are operably coupled to each other.

[0041] Additionally, as used herein, terminology such as “about,” “approximately” and “substantially,” when used to refer to variability of parameters, should be understood to be definite approximations that account for variations in measurements that cannot be, or as one of skill in the art would appreciate, normally are not, measured precisely. Thus, for example, a parameter that is “about,” “approximately” or “substantially” a given value or a given characteristic should be understood to be sufficiently close to the given value or given characteristic such that performance of the object or product to which the parameter applies, from the perspective of one with ordinary skill in the art, is the same as though the object or product had precisely the given value or characteristic.

[0042] Some example embodiments may enable the provision of a striking tool that may include an overstrike protection assembly for protecting a portion of the handle of the striking tool. The overstrike protection assembly may extend along a portion of the handle proximate to the contact portion of the head of the striking tool. In the event of an overstrike or a mishit, the contact portion of the head may not contact a target object, and the target object may instead make contact with another portion of the striking tool proximate to the head and along the handle. In such cases, the overstrike protection assembly may provide protection to the handle in the event of a mishit or an overstrike of the striking tool. Thus, the overstrike protection assembly may increase the handle’s resistance to impact damage, which may improve the longevity of the striking tool. In some cases, the striking tool may also be provided with a wraparound style engagement interface that may provide increased energy and vibration and absorption. In this regard, the handle may operably couple to the head by wrapping around a circumference of the head. The wraparound engagement interface may be formed in a single, continuous structure formed from thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). Both AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0043] the TPV material and the wraparound structure of the engagement interface may be critical to increasing the energy and vibration and absorption of the striking tool.

[0044] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a perspective view and a left side view of a striking tool, respectively, according to an example embodiment. FIG. 3, which may include FIGS. 3a and 3b, depicts a close up perspective view, and a close up front view, respectively, of the first end of the striking tool in accordance with an example embodiment. FIG. 4, which may include FIGS. 4a and 4b, illustrates a section view of the first end of the striking tool according to an example embodiment and a section view of the handle and overstrike protection assembly according to an example embodiment. Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, in some cases, the striking tool 100 may include a head 110, a handle 120, a core member 130 and an overstrike protection assembly 140. The head 110 may be disposed at a first end 102 of the striking tool 100 and may extend along a lateral axis 150 of the striking tool 100. In an example embodiment, the head 110 may include at least one contact portion, and in the particular example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4, the at least one contact portion may include a first contact portion 106 and a second contact portion 108. The first and second contact portions (106, 108) may be configured to deliver an impact on a target object (not pictured) responsive to the striking tool 100 being swung by an operator via the handle 120.

[0045] The first contact portion 106 may be disposed at a first side 112 of the head 110 and the second contact portion 108 may be disposed at a second side 114 of the head 110. In an example embodiment, the first side 112 of the head 110 may be at an opposite side of a longitudinal axis 160 of the striking tool 100 from the second side 114 of the head 110. The lateral axis 150 may extend through the first and second contact portions (106, 108), substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 160. In some example embodiments, such as the one depicted in FIGS. 1-8, the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may be symmetrical with each other, and the longitudinal axis 160 may be the line of symmetry between them. In other cases, the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may be different from each other and may perhaps perform different functions from each other. In some example embodiments, such as the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-8 in which the striking tool 100 may be a sledgehammer, the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may be formed as impact faces. In this regard, the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may each include an enlarged and substantially planar area that may be intended to deliver the impact to the target object. In such cases, the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may retain a same rounded-rectangular perimeter shape as the head 110, but each AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0046] of the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may include a larger diameter than the head 110, which may increase the contact area of the striking tool 100.

[0047] The handle 120 may include a grip portion 122 and a beam portion (or beam 124). The beam 124 may be operably coupled to the head 110 and may extend along the longitudinal axis 160 of the striking tool 100 substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis 150, towards a second end 104 of the striking tool 100 where the beam 124 may be operably coupled to the grip portion 122. In this regard, the head 110 and the handle 120 may form a “T” shape together, where the head 110 may represent the top “horizontal” portion of the “T” and the handle 120 may represent the bottom “vertical” portion of the “T”. In some cases, the beam 124 may be formed from a polymer material and may be injection molded around the head 110. As such, the beam 124 of the handle 120 may be disposed in a circumferential groove formed around the head 110, as will be discussed in greater detail below in reference to FIGS. 5-10. Additionally, the beam 124 may be reinforced from within by the core member 130, which may be disposed substantially at a core / center of the beam 124, and aligned along the longitudinal axis 160. In an example embodiment, the handle 120 may be slightly tapered from the first end 102, down the beam 124, into the grip portion 122 and towards the second end 104 of the striking tool 100, until flaring back out at a base 105 of the grip portion 122 at the second end 104. As a result, the center of mass of the handle 120 may be disposed towards the first end 102 and the head 110, which may increase the amount of force that may be delivered on impact by the head 110 of the striking tool 100. The base 105 at the second end 104 may enable the operator to grasp the grip portion 122 towards the end of the handle 120 with greater ease, which may provide increased control over the striking tool 100 during use. Additionally, in some example embodiments, the handle 120 may include various grooves, markings, dips and other features which may provide added visual appeal as well as increased grip at the grip portion 122 for the operator to have control of the striking tool 100.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b, the core member 130 may be enclosed entirely within the handle 120, or in other words the core member 130 may be encased by the handle 120. In this regard, the core member 130 may provide additional structural rigidity to the beam 124 to counteract the weight of the head 110 and to make the striking tool 100 easier to wield. The core member 130 may also increase the ability of the beam 124 to withstand an impact from an overstrike event proximate to the head 110. In some cases, the striking tool 100 may be produced in 8, 10, 12 and 16 pound configurations, and as such, maintaining adequate rigidity of the handle 120 during the use of the striking tool 100 despite its weight, and AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0049] increasing the strength of the operable coupling of the head 110 and the handle 120, may be desirable for optimizing performance of the striking tool 100. As such, the addition of the core member 130 to the beam 124 may make the handle 120 more durable by adding additional structural reinforcement. In an example embodiment, the core member 130 may be operably coupled to the handle 120 and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis 150 along the longitudinal axis 160. In some cases, the core member 130 may be made from fiberglass due to its desirable strength to weight ratio, but in other cases, other materials may be used as well. The use of fiberglass in the core member 130 may be advantageous over materials such as metal, and therefore critical to the optimal performance of the striking tool 100, due to the ability of fiberglass to reduce the propagation of vibrations from the head 110 to the handle 120. In other words, the fiberglass core member 130 may reduce the amount and severity of the vibrations that are felt by the operator of the striking tool 100 better than a metallic core member 130 would by absorbing more energy from the striking tool 100.

[0050] The striking tool 100 may also include the overstrike protection assembly 140 which may protect the beam 124 of the handle 120 from incidental contact with the target object or other nearby objects. In this regard, the overstrike protection assembly 140 may be disposed along portions of the beam 124 that may be proximate to the first and second contact portions (106, 108) of the head 110. Therefore, in the event of a mishit or an overstrike, (i.e. when the striking tool 100 is swung and the at least one contact portion fails to make contact with the target object) the overstrike protection assembly 140 may protect the beam 124 from potential contact with the target object. In some cases, the head 110 may be cast from metal as a single, unitary piece with the overstrike protection assembly 140. In other words, the head 110 and the overstrike protection assembly 140 may be monolithically formed together from metal. This may give the overstrike protection assembly 140 greater strength and a greater ability to withstand contact and impacts from the target object or any other environmental objects that it may encounter during use and over time. In an example embodiment, the head 110 and the overstrike protection assembly 140 may be forged from steel or a steel alloy due to the strength of such materials. In this regard, the overstrike protection assembly 140 may provide a layer of protection over the beam 124 that may be more resistant to, and hold up better against, impacts than the polymer material of the beam 124.

[0051] FIG. 5 depicts a close up left side view of the first end 102 of the striking tool 100 with the handle 120 removed for visibility in accordance with an example embodiment, and AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0052] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the first end 102 of the striking tool 100 with the handle 120 removed for visibility in accordance with an example embodiment. In some cases, the overstrike protection assembly 140 may include a first guard member 142, a second guard member 144, and a plurality of cross members. The first and second guard members (142, 144) may protect the beam 124 in the event of an overstrike. As such, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may be disposed along an exterior surface of the beam 124 proximate to the first and second contact portions (106, 108), respectively. In some cases, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 160 and substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis 150. In an example embodiment, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may be symmetrical with each other, and the longitudinal axis 160 of the striking tool 100 may be the line of symmetry between them. The first and second guard members (142, 144) may be substantially “U” shaped: they may each include a pair of substantially parallel linear edges that may be joined by a curved bottom edge. The space between the pair of substantially parallel linear edges may be filled in with metal material to provide a protective shield for the portion of the beam 124 that may lie between the first and second guard members (142, 144). In some cases, the length of the first and second guard members (142, 144) may be approximately 10% of a full length of the striking tool 100. In an example embodiment, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may be approximately 1-3 cm thick to be able to withstand impact forces of varying magnitude.

[0053] In FIG. 4a, the darkest gray areas may be representative of a section through the metal that may be found in the head 110 and the first and second cross members (146, 148). A medium shade of gray may be used in FIG. 4a to indicate the section through the core member 130 at the center of the beam 124 of the handle 120, and the lightest shade of gray in FIG. 4a may be indicative of the section through the beam 124. Similarly, in FIG. 4b, the darkest shade of gray may be used to indicate the section through the metal of the first and second guard members (142, 144), the medium shade of gray may be used to indicate the section through the core member 130, and the lightest shade of gray may indicate the section through the beam 124.

[0054] In some cases, the handle 120 may have a substantially elliptical cross sectional shape for most of the length of the beam 124. However, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4b, the portion of the beam 124 that may extend between the first and second guard members (142, 144) may have a cross sectional shape that may resemble an ellipse with opposing ends of its major axis cut off by the first and second guard members (142, 144). This may occur as a AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0055] result of the injection molding process used to create the beam 124: the polymer material of the beam 124 may be injected into, and fill, space between the first and second guard members (142, 144). Regardless, the first guard member 142 may be disposed along the handle 120 at a same side of the longitudinal axis 160 as the first side 112 of the head 110, and the second guard member 144 may be disposed along the handle 120 at a same side of the longitudinal axis 160 as the second side 114 of the head 110. The presence of the first and second guard members (142, 144) as exposed metal portions at the exterior surface of the beam 124 proximate to the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may increase the longevity of the handle 120 and the tool 100 as a whole by increasing the ability of the handle 120 to withstand a greater number of impacts as well as harsher impacts over extended periods of time.

[0056] In some cases, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may extend approximately 5 inches below the head 110. In an example embodiment, the head 110 and the overstrike protection assembly 140 may cover approximately 20% of an entire length of the striking tool 100. In some cases, the size of the first and second contact portions (106, 108) may change depending on the size and weight of the striking tool 100. However, the first and second guard members (142, 144) of the overstrike protection assembly 140 may be consistent in size across various embodiments regardless of the size of the first and second contact portions (106,108). In some example embodiments, the first and second guard members (142, 144) themselves may be approximately as long as 10% of the entire length of the striking tool 100. The size of the first and second guard members (142, 144) of the overstrike protection assembly 140 may be critical to achieving desirable performance of the overstrike protection assembly 140. In this regard, in the event that the operator may accidentally overstrike the striking tool 100, the most likely range in which contact between the striking tool 100 and the target object may occur may be within 5 inches of the head 110. As such, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may cover approximately 5 inches along the beam 124 measured from the head 110 to cover the area most likely to make contact. Any less coverage may leave the beam 124 partially unprotected, and any more coverage may not be an efficient use of material for the expected benefit to the tool 100. Similarly, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may not extend circumferentially around the beam 124 into the right and left halves of the striking tool 100 because these side portions of the beam 124 may be unlikely to experience any contact / impacts from mishits or overstrikes, and as such, covering these areas with the first and second guard members (142, 144) may not be an efficient use of material for the expected benefit to the tool 100. AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0057] The plurality of cross members may extend from the first guard member 142 to the second guard member 144, and may be monolithically formed with both of the first guard member 142 and the second guard member 144 from metal as well. As shown in FIGS. 4a, 5 and 6, the plurality of cross members may include a first cross member 146 and a second cross member 148. The first cross member 146 may be disposed closer to the head 110 than the second cross member 148. The first cross member 146 and the second cross member 148 may each extend across the longitudinal axis 160, and substantially parallel to the lateral axis 150. In some cases, the first cross member 146 and the second cross member 148 may be disposed on opposing sides of the core member 130. In this regard, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the core member 130 may be inserted into an orifice in the head 110 that may be disposed within the overstrike protection assembly 140. In other words, the orifice may be formed between the first guard member 142, the second guard member 144, the first cross member 146 and the second cross member 148, and the core member 130 may be inserted therein. In the example embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-13, the core member 130 may not extend through the entire head 110, but instead may extend through a portion of the head 110 corresponding to the overstrike protection assembly 140. As such, together, the overstrike protection assembly 140 and the core member 130 may provide structural reinforcement to increase the durability of the operable coupling of the handle 120 to the head 110 within a portion of the beam 124 that may have an increased likelihood of receiving an overstrike impact.

[0058] In some cases, there may be space between the core member 130 and each of the first guard member 142, the second guard member 144, the first cross member 146 and the second cross member 148. This space may be filled by the material of the beam 124 being injection molded onto the striking tool 100 and filling in the space around the core member 130, as shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b. As can be seen in FIG. 4a, a core plane 170 may divide the striking tool 100 into a left half 101 and a right half 103, respectively. In this regard, the core plane 170 may contain both the lateral axis 150 and the longitudinal axis 160 therein. The core plane 170 may bisect each of the first and second guard members (142, 144) so that each of the first and second guard members (142, 144) may have a portion in the left half 101 and a portion in the right half 103 of the striking tool 100. On the other hand, the first and second cross members (146, 148) may be entirely disposed on separate sides of the core plane 170. For instance, the first cross member 146 may be disposed in the right half 103 and the second cross member 148 may be disposed in the left half 101. AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0059] In some cases, the core member 130 may include a first recessed portion 132 that may align with the first cross member 146 and a second recessed portion 134 that may align with the second cross member 148. As seen in FIG. 4a, most of the core member 130 may have a first thickness (Tl) for a majority of the length of the core member 130. In other words, the portion of the core member 130 that may extend through the beam 124 of the handle 120 may have a substantially consistent thickness throughout, which may be approximately equal to the first thickness (Tl). In some cases, the first and second recessed portions (132, 134) may have a minimum thickness approximately equal to a second thickness (T2). In this regard, the second thickness (T2) may be less than the first thickness (Tl). In an example embodiment, the first and second recessed portions (132, 134) may each comprise a recession formed into the core member 130 on opposing sides of the core plane 170. As such, the first and second recessed portions (132, 134) may resemble the shape of a venturi restriction or a bottleneck when viewed in section from the front or rear of the tool 100, such as in FIG. 4a. In some other cases, the first and second recessed portions (132, 134) may each only comprise a recession formed into the core member 130 on a single side of the core plane 170, preferably proximate to the first and second cross members (146, 148), respectively.

[0060] As mentioned above, the space between the core member 130 and each of the first guard member 142, the second guard member 144, the first cross member 146 and the second cross member 148 may be filled by the polymer material of the beam 124 being injection molded onto the striking tool 100 and filling in the space around the core member 130, as shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b. In some cases, the polymer material of the beam 124 may be thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), which may be made of dispersed rubber particles in a polypropylene (PP) matrix. The use of TPV to construct the beam 124 around the fiberglass core member 130 may be critical to the ability of the striking tool 100 to function properly in both having a sufficient structural integrity to deliver high force impacts and its ability to isolate the operator from vibrations and impact forces generated during use. In this regard, the material properties and composition of TPV may enable TPV to exhibit the characteristics that make it critical to the performance of the striking tool 100. For instance, TPV may exhibit elasticity and flexibility, superior chemical and weather resistance, thermoplastic processability, good fatigue and flex resistance and may be lightweight and durable.

[0061] Importantly, the TPV material that makes up the beam 124 may also wrap entirely around the head 110 as will be described below in reference to FIGS. 9-12. This wraparound structure may strengthen the operably coupling of the beam 124 to the head 110 by operably coupling the handle 120 to the head 110 via a single and continuous component including the TPV AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0062] material which may provide additional energy absorbing advantages as well as structural stiffness to ensure a stable connection between the head 110 and the handle 120.

[0063] The first and second recessed portions (132, 134) may be axially separated along the core member 130 and may align with the first and second cross members (146, 148) respectively. As such, the first and second recessed portions (132, 134) may enable a greater amount of TPV material from the beam 124 to be inserted in between the core member 130 and the first and second cross members (146, 148) to strengthen the operable coupling of the handle 120 to the head 110, and to increase the vibration damping between the handle 120 and the head 110. In some cases, more or fewer recessed portions and cross members may be included depending on the specific requirements of the striking tool 100.

[0064] FIGS. 7 and 8 depict the head 110 and the overstrike protection assembly 140 with the handle 120 and core member 130 removed for visibility, in accordance with an example embodiment. The core plane 170 that may divide the striking tool 100 into the left half 101 and the right half 103 may be seen in FIG. 8 as well. In FIG. 8, the left half 101 and the right half 103 may be disposed on the top and bottom of the core plane 170, respectively, since FIG. 8 depicts a bottom view of the head 110. As described above, the core plane 170 may contain both the lateral axis 150 and the longitudinal axis 160 therein, and the core plane 170 may bisect each of the first and second guard members (142, 144) so that each of the first and second guard members (142, 144) may have a portion in the left half 101 and a portion in the right half 103 of the striking tool 100. On the other hand, the first and second cross members (146, 148) may be entirely disposed on separate sides of the core plane 170. For instance, the first cross member 146 may be disposed in the right half 103 and the second cross member 148 may be disposed in the left half 101. By forming the first and second cross members (146, 148) on opposing sides of the core plane 170, and at different distances from the head 110, the overstrike protection assembly 140 may provide greater support around the core member 130 disposed therebetween to strengthen the operable coupling of the handle 120 to the head 110. In this regard, the beam 124 may be injection molded around the head 110, the plurality of cross members and the core member 130, and may completely enclose the core member 130 and the plurality of cross members between the first guard member 142 and the second guard member 144.

[0065] FIGS. 7 and 8 also depict a circumferential groove 180 formed around a perimeter of the head 110 according to an example embodiment. In this regard, the circumferential groove 180 may extend around a perimeter of the head 110 along the longitudinal axis 160, or in other words, around an axial circumference around the lateral axis 150. The circumferential AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0066] groove 180 of some example embodiments may include a varying depth and width depending on the relative position on the head 110, and depending on which portions of the head 110 may need more support from the handle 120. For example, the circumferential groove 180 may include a first recess 182 disposed at the left half 101 of the head 110 in the circumferential groove 180 and a second recess 184 disposed at the right half 103 of the head 110 in the circumferential groove 180. The first and second recesses (182, 184) may be formed into the circumferential groove 180 and may extend towards the lateral axis 150 from the surface of the circumferential groove 180. In some cases, the first and second recesses (182, 184) may define deeper portions of the circumferential groove 180 which may enable more TPV material from the beam 124 to be injected into the circumferential groove 180 to provide a more secure operable coupling of the handle 120 to the head 110. In other words, the circumferential groove 180 may be indented into the head 110, or recessed with respect to the surface of the head 110, and the first and second recesses (182, 184) may be indented into the circumferential groove 180, or recessed with respect to the surface of the circumferential groove 180. In some cases, because the circumferential groove 180 may be recessed with respect to the surface of the head 110, the circumferential groove 180 may therefore define a minimum circumference of the head 110 around the lateral axis 150. During the injection molding process, the TPV material of the beam 124 may fill in the circumferential groove 180 around the head 110, including the first and second recesses (182, 184) to form the engagement interface 190.

[0067] Having the TPV material of the beam 124 of the handle 120 wrap around the head 110 in the circumferential groove 180 may be critical to the ability of the striking tool 100 to absorb energy from the striking tool 100 to dampen vibrations between the head 110 and the handle 120. In this regard, the substantially annular shape of the engagement interface 190 operably coupling the head 110 to the handle 120 may increase the amount of surface area for which the head 110 and the handle 120 may be in contact with one another. This increase in contact surface area may enable a more efficient absorption of energy by the TPV material of the handle 120 so that fewer vibrations, and vibrations of reduced severity, may propagate to the operator of the striking tool 100. In other words, increasing the amount of contact between the beam 124 and the circumferential groove 180 around the head 110 may thereby increase the surface area of the TPV material of the beam 124, which may therefore absorb more energy from the tool 100 and reduce the amount of vibrations felt by the operator. In some cases, an inner circumference of the engagement interface 190 may be substantially equal to the minimum circumference of the head 110 in the circumferential groove 180. AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0068] FIGS. 9 and 10 depict isolated perspective and section views of the handle 120, respectively, according to an example embodiment. FIG. 11 depicts a close up view of the handle and head interface portion of the beam 124 in accordance with an example embodiment. FIG. 12 illustrates a close up view of the first end 102 of the beam 124 in accordance with an example embodiment, and FIG. 13 depicts a close up view of the portion of the beam 124 that operably couples to the overstrike protection assembly 140 according to an example embodiment. In this regard, the first end 102 of the beam 124 may include the engagement interface 190 which may be rounded or arcuate or annular, and may have a hollow interior where the head 110 of the striking tool 100 may be disposed. The engagement interface 190 may extend around a perimeter of the head 110 within the circumferential groove 180. In some cases, the circumferential groove 180 may be disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 160 of the striking tool 100. Similarly, in some other cases, the first and second guard members (142, 144) may substantially align with edges of the circumferential groove 180 in the head 110 so that a width of the beam 124 may be approximately the same from where the overstrike protection assembly 140 begins, to the first end 102 of the head 110. In addition to improving the vibration damping as described above, this wrap-around style of the engagement interface 190, which may operably couple the beam 124 to the head 110 may increase the strength of the striking tool 100 to be able to withstand greater loads when in use. In particular, the combination of the wrap-around operable coupling between the beam 124 and the head 110 with the inclusion of the core member 130 may greatly increase the longevity of the striking tool 100.

[0069] As seen in FIGS. 9-12, the engagement interface 190 may include first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) that may extend radially inward toward a center of the substantially annular shaped engagement interface 190. In an example embodiment, the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) may be diametrically opposed from one another on opposing sides of the engagement interface 190. As such, the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) may be disposed approximately 180° apart from each other. In this regard, the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) may align with, and operably couple to, the first and second recesses (182, 184) within the circumferential groove 180. As such, in some other cases, the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) and the first and second recesses (182, 184) may be disposed in any orientation around the engagement interface 190 and the circumferential groove 180, respectively, provided that the first engagement protrusion 192 may align with the first recess 182 and the second engagement protrusion 194 may align with the second recess 184. In an example AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0070] embodiment, the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) may be during the injection molding process. In other words, the TPV material may be inserted into the circumferential groove 180, which may include the first and second recesses (182, 184). As such, the TPV material of the engagement interface 190 may fill in the first and second recesses (182, 184) to form the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194).

[0071] In an example embodiment, each of the first and second recesses (182, 184) and the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) may have a substantially rectangular perimeter shape. In this regard, each of the first and second recesses (182, 184) and the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) may be substantially the same size and shape as one another. However, in some other cases the first recess 182 and the first engagement protrusion 192 may have a first perimeter shape while the second recess 184 and the second engagement protrusion 194 may have a second perimeter shape. For example, the perimeter shape of the first and second recesses (182, 184) and the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) may be substantially circular, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, star shaped, etc.

[0072] FIG. 13 illustrates a close up view of the portion of the beam 124 that operably couples to the second guard member 144 of the overstrike protection assembly 140 according to an example embodiment. In this regard, the beam 124 may include first and second orifices (126, 128) through which the first and second cross members (146, 148), respectively, may extend. The first and second orifices (126, 128) may be formed by the beam 124 being injection molded around the head 110 and therefore also around the first and second cross members (146, 148). As such, the first and second orifices (126, 128) may have substantially the same shape and size as the first and second cross members (146, 148), respectively. As can be seen in FIG. 13, the first orifice 126 may extend around the core member 130 on an opposite side of the core plane 170 from the second orifice 128. Also seen in FIG. 13, the first and second orifices (126, 128) may extend substantially arcuately through the beam 124. As described above, the first and second orifices (126, 128) may also be axially separated from each other, with the first orifice 126 being disposed closer to the engagement interface 190 than the second orifice 128.

[0073] FIGS. 14-22 depict various views of a striking tool 200 in accordance with an example embodiment. In this regard, the striking tool 200 shown in the example embodiment of FIGS. 14-22 may include many of the same features described above in reference to FIGS.

[0074] 1-13, but the striking tool 200 of FIGS. 14-22 may be smaller than the striking tool 100 shown in the example embodiment of FIGS. 1-13. Due to its reduced size, the striking tool AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0075] 200 may not deliver impacts having as much force as the striking tool 100, and the striking tool 200 may also be easier to aim with greater accuracy than the striking tool 100. Therefore, it may be less likely to have a mishit, and in the event of a mishit, the mishit may induce less force onto the striking tool 200. Therefore, there may be a reduced need for the overstrike protection assembly 140. Accordingly, the striking tool 200 may not include the overstrike protection assembly 140, but the striking tool 200 may still include a head 210, a handle 220 and a core member 230. In this regard, the head 210, the handle 220 and the core member 230 may be substantially similar to the head 110, the handle 120 and the core member 130 described above, except for where differentiated below.

[0076] Similar to the head 110 described above in reference to the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-13, the head 210 of the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 14-22 may be disposed at a first end 202 of the striking tool 200 and may extend along a lateral axis 250 of the striking tool 200. In an example embodiment, the head 210 may include at least one contact portion, and the at least one contact portion may include a first contact portion 206 and a second contact portion 208. The first and second contact portions (206, 208) may be configured to deliver an impact on a target object (not pictured) responsive to the striking tool 200 being swung by an operator via the handle 220.

[0077] The head 210 may not be formed integrally with the overstrike protection assembly 140 and may therefore be substantially cylindrical in shape, and the first and second contact portions (206, 208) may be disposed at opposing axial ends of the substantially cylindrical head 210. In this regard, the head 210 may also not include the first and second cross members (146, 148) that were shown in the head 110 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13, but may still include the circumferential groove 280. Accordingly, the beam 224 of the handle 220 may still include the substantially annular engagement interface 290 which may wrap around the head 210 in the circumferential groove 280 as described above. In other words, the handle 220 may operably couple to the head 210 by the engagement interface 290 extending entirely around, and operably coupling to, the head 210 in the circumferential groove 280. This wrap-around operable coupling of the handle 220 to the head 210 may be critical to reducing the amount and the severity of vibrations that travel from the head 210 to the handle 220.

[0078] As seen in FIGS. 16 and 18, the circumferential groove 280 may not include the first and second recesses (182, 184), but instead the head 210 may include a central bore 240 extending through an entire diameter of the head 210 and disposed within the circumferential groove 280. In this regard, the opening to the central bore 240 may be an orifice into the head AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0079] 110, and the central bore 240 may be coaxial with a longitudinal axis 260 of the striking tool 200. In some cases, the core member 230 may pass entirely through the central bore 240. In an example embodiment, the central bore 240 may be substantially elliptical in shape or substantially stadium shaped, and the major axis of the orifice into the central bore 240 may be substantially parallel to the lateral axis 250 of the striking tool 200. In some other cases, the central bore 240 may be embodied as other shapes as well. For example, the central bore 240 may be circular, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, or the like.

[0080] The engagement interface 290 of the example embodiment depicted in FIGS. 16 and 17 may include an annular shaped outer portion 292 and a linear inner portion 294 that may extend along the longitudinal axis 260 across a diameter of the outer portion 292. As described above, the outer portion 292 may wrap around the head 210 and be operably coupled to the circumferential groove 280. The inner portion 294 may include the core member 230 and may extend through the central bore 240 of the head 210 and operably couple to the outer portion 292 at opposing ends of the central bore 240. In this regard, the inner portion 294 may increase the structural rigidity of the operable coupling of the handle 220 to the head 210 in lieu of the first and second guard members (142, 144), the first and second cross members (146, 148) and the first and second engagement protrusions (192, 194) that may all increase the rigidity of the operable coupling between the head 110 and the handle 120 of the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-13 but may not be present on the example embodiment depicted in FIGS. 14-22.

[0081] FIGS. 19-22 each depict a different section view of the striking tool 200 in accordance with an example embodiment. FIG. 19 depicts a left side section view of the striking tool 200 taken along core plane 270, FIG. 20 depicts a close up front side section view of the striking tool 200, FIG. 21 depicts a perspective view of a section taken laterally through the engagement interface 290 and FIG. 22 depicts a perspective view of a section taken longitudinally through the engagement interface 290. As seen in FIGS. 19-22, the inner portion 294 of the engagement interface 290 may include the core member 230 disposed therein. The core member 230 may be surrounded by the TPV material of the beam 224, which may also make up the outer portion 292. Thus, the central bore 240 may include both the TPV material of the beam 224 and the core member 230 extending therethrough. As described above, the core member 230 may be constructed from fiberglass in some cases and the beam 224 may be constructed from thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), and both of these material choices may be critical to the optimal performance of the striking tool 200. In this regard, to create the striking tool 200, the head 210 may be formed from a metallic material, AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0082] and the core member 230 may be formed from fiberglass. The core member 230 may then be inserted into the central bore 240 in the head 210 and the TPV may be injection molded around the core member 230 and into / around the head 210 at the circumferential groove 280. Accordingly, in the section views provided in FIGS. 19-22, the lightest shade of gray may represent the TPV material of the beam 224 and engagement interface 290, the medium shade of gray may represent the metallic material of the head 210 where present and the darkest shade of gray may represent the fiberglass material of the core member 230.

[0083] As described above, TPV may be made of dispersed rubber particles in a polypropylene (PP) matrix. The use of TPV to construct the beam 224 around the fiberglass core member 230 may be critical to the ability of the striking tool 200 to function properly in both its structural integrity to deliver high force impacts and its ability to isolate the operator from vibrations and impact forces generated during use. In this regard, TPV may exhibit excellent elasticity and flexibility, superior chemical and weather resistance, thermoplastic processability, good fatigue and flex resistance and may be lightweight and durable.

[0084] Importantly, the TPV material that makes up the beam 224 may also wrap entirely around the head 210 as can be seen in FIGS. 14-17 and 19-22. This wraparound structure may strengthen the operably coupling of the beam 224 to the head 210 by operably coupling the handle 220 to the head 210 via a single and continuous component including the TPV material which may provide additional vibration dampening advantages as well as structural stiffness to ensure a stable connection between the head 210 and the handle 220.

[0085] As shown in FIGS. 20 and 22, the core member 230 may include a plurality of recessed portions 232 that may may be axially separated along the core member 230 on opposing sides of the core plane 270. In this regard, the recessed portions 232 may be disposed proximate to an end of the core member 230 disposed within the central bore 240. As such, the plurality of recessed portions 232 may enable a greater amount of TPV material from the beam 224 to be inserted in between the core member 230 and the walls of the central bore 240 to strengthen the operable coupling of the handle 220 to the head 210, and to increase the vibration damping between the handle 220 and the head 210. In some cases, more or fewer recessed portions and cross members may be included depending on the specific requirements of the striking tool 200. As more recessed portions 232 are included on the core member 230, the more insulated the core member 230 and handle 220 may be from vibrations originating at the head 210. In other cases, rather than including more recessed portions 232 at the core member 230, the recessed portions 232 may also be made larger and deeper. In either case, the achieved result may be that the amount of TPV material that may AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0086] surround the core member 230 may be increased at the engagement interface 290, which may aid in absorbing energy from the head 210 to better insulate the operator of the striking tool 200.

[0087] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate a left side view of the striking tool in accordance with different example embodiments. In some other cases, such as the embodiment depicted in FIG. 23, the striking tool 100’ may be an axe. In such cases, the head 110’ may only include the first contact portion 106’, and the first contact portion 106’ may be embodied as a blade that may cut into the target object responsive to the striking tool 100’ being swung by the operator. In the embodiment of FIG. 23, all other features of the striking tool 100 may be the same as described above in relation to FIGS. 1-10. In still some other cases, such as the embodiment depicted in FIG. 24, the striking tool 100” may be a maul. In such cases, the first contact portion 106” may be a blade, like the axe, and the second contact portion 108” may be an impact face, like the sledgehammer. In the embodiment of FIG. 24, all other features of the striking tool 100 may be the same as described above in relation to FIGS. 1-13 or FIGS.

[0088] 14-22. Accordingly, the striking tool 100 may be any type of striking tool 100 including a sledgehammer, an axe, a maul, a hammer, a framing hammer, or a basic striking tool. In an example embodiment, basic striking tools may include a mallet, a dead blow hammer, a hatchet, a pick axe, etc. Regardless of the type of striking tool 100 used, the head 110 may be configured to make contact with the target object via the first contact portion 106 and / or the second contact portion 108.

[0089] In an example embodiment, a striking tool may be provided. The striking tool may include a head that may extend along a lateral axis and may have at least one contact portion for delivering an impact, a handle that may be operably coupled to the head and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis, and a core member that may be operably coupled to the handle and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis. The handle comprises an engagement interface that may be substantially annular in shape and may extend entirely around a portion of a perimeter of the head to operably couple the handle to the head. The handle may be formed from thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV).

[0090] In some embodiments, the features of the tool described above may be augmented or modified, or additional features may be added. These augmentations, modifications and additions may be optional and may be provided in any combination. Thus, although some example modifications, augmentations and additions are listed below, it should be appreciated that any of the modifications, augmentations and additions could be implemented AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0091] individually or in combination with one or more, or even all of the other modifications, augmentations and additions that are listed. As such, for example, the handle and the engagement interface may be monolithically formed together from the TPV. In an example embodiment, the head may include a circumferential groove that may extend around the perimeter of the head and may be indented into the head. In some cases, at least a portion of the engagement interface may be disposed in the circumferential groove. In an example embodiment, the circumferential groove may define a minimum circumference of the head. In some cases, an inner circumference of the engagement interface may be substantially equal to the minimum circumference of the head. In an example embodiment, the head may further include at least one recess indented into the circumferential groove. In some cases, the engagement interface may include at least one protrusion operably coupled to the at least one recess. In an example embodiment, the at least one protrusion may have a substantially same shape and size as the at least one recess. In some cases, the at least one protrusion may extend into the at least one recess within the circumferential groove. In an example embodiment, the head may further include a central bore extending entirely through the head along the longitudinal axis. In some cases, the engagement interface may include an outer portion and an inner portion. In an example embodiment, the outer portion may extend around the perimeter of the head in the circumferential groove and the inner portion may extend linearly through the central bore and through the head. In some cases, the inner portion may include the core member which may be encased by the TPV material of the handle and the outer portion may include the TPV. In an example embodiment, the head may be formed from metal and the core member may be formed from fiberglass.

[0092] In another example embodiment, a handle for a striking tool may be provided. The striking tool may include a head which may extend along a lateral axis and may have at least one contact portion for delivering an impact. The handle may include a beam portion that may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis, an engagement interface that may be substantially annular in shape and may extend entirely around a portion of a perimeter of the head to operably couple the handle to the head, and a core member that may be encased by the handle and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis. The handle may be operably coupled to the head and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis. The handle may be formed from thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01

[0093] In another example embodiment, an engagement interface for a handle of a striking tool may be provided. The striking tool may include a head which may extend along a lateral axis and may have at least one contact portion for delivering an impact, a handle which may be operably coupled to the head and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis, and a core member which may be encased by the handle and may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis. The engagement interface may include a substantially annular shaped outer portion that may extend entirely around a portion of a perimeter of the head to operably couple the handle to the head. The handle and the engagement interface may be monolithically formed together from thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV).

[0094] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and / or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. In cases where advantages, benefits or solutions to problems are described herein, it should be appreciated that such advantages, benefits and / or solutions may be applicable to some example embodiments, but not necessarily all example embodiments. Thus, any advantages, benefits or solutions described herein should not be thought of as being critical, required or essential to all embodiments or to that which is claimed herein. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01WHAT IS CLAIMED:

1. A striking tool comprising:a head extending along a lateral axis and having at least one contact portion for delivering an impact;a handle operably coupled to the head and extending substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis; anda core member encased by the handle and also extending substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis,wherein the handle operably couples to the head approximately at a midpoint of the head disposed at the longitudinal axis, andwherein the core member extends into an orifice in the head and through at least a portion of the head.

2. The striking tool of claim 1, wherein the handle comprises an engagement interface that is substantially annular in shape and extends entirely around a perimeter of the head to operably couple the handle to the head.

3. The striking tool of claim 2, wherein the head comprises a circumferential groove that extends around the perimeter of the head and is indented into the head, and wherein a portion of the engagement interface is disposed in the circumferential groove.

4. The striking tool of claim 3, wherein the circumferential groove defines a minimum circumference of the head, andwherein an inner circumference of the engagement interface is substantially equal to the minimum circumference of the head.

5. The striking tool of claim 3, wherein the head further comprises at least one recess indented into the circumferential groove, andwherein the engagement interface comprises at least one protrusion operably coupled to the at least one recess.AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT016. The striking tool of claim 5, wherein the at least one protrusion has substantially a same shape and size as the at least one recess, andwherein the at least one protrusion extends into the at least one recess within the circumferential groove.

7. The striking tool of claim 3, wherein the head further comprises a central bore extending entirely through the head along the longitudinal axis, andwherein the engagement interface comprises an outer portion and an inner portion, wherein the outer portion extends around the perimeter of the head in the circumferential groove and the inner portion extends linearly through the central bore and through the head.

8. The striking tool of claim 7, wherein the orifice in the head is an entrance to the central bore and the core member is disposed therein.

9. The striking tool of claim 1, wherein the head comprises an overstrike protection assembly for protecting the handle, andwherein the overstrike protection assembly comprises a first guard member, a second guard member, and a plurality of cross members,wherein the first and second guard members extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis, and wherein the plurality of cross members extend from the first guard member to the second guard member.

10. The striking tool of claim 9, wherein the orifice in the head is surrounded by the first guard member, the second guard member, and the plurality of cross members and the core member is disposed therein.

11. A handle for a striking tool having a head extending along a lateral axis and having at least one contact portion for delivering an impact, the handle comprising:a beam portion extending substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along a longitudinal axis; anda core member encased within the handle and extending substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis along the longitudinal axis,AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01wherein the handle operably couples to the head approximately at a midpoint of the head disposed at the longitudinal axis, andwherein the core member extends into an orifice in the head and through at least a portion of the head.

12. The handle of claim 11, wherein the handle comprises an engagement interface that is substantially annular in shape and extends entirely around a perimeter of the head to operably couple the handle to the head.

13. The handle of claim 12, wherein the head comprises a circumferential groove that extends around the perimeter of the head and is indented into the head, and wherein a portion of the engagement interface is disposed in the circumferential groove.

14. The handle of claim 13, wherein the circumferential groove defines a minimum circumference of the head, andwherein an inner circumference of the engagement interface is substantially equal to the minimum circumference of the head.

15. The handle of claim 13, wherein the head further comprises at least one recess indented into the circumferential groove, andwherein the engagement interface comprises at least one protrusion operably coupled to the at least one recess.

16. The handle of claim 15, wherein the at least one protrusion has substantially a same shape and size as the at least one recess, andwherein the at least one protrusion extends into the at least one recess within the circumferential groove.

17. The handle of claim 13, wherein the head further comprises a central bore extending entirely through the head along the longitudinal axis, andwherein the engagement interface comprises an outer portion and an inner portion,AttyDktNo: 717745 / 01015 / P4288PCT01wherein the outer portion extends around the perimeter of the head in the circumferential groove and the inner portion extends linearly through the central bore and through the head.

18. The handle of claim 17, wherein the orifice in the head is an entrance to the central bore and the core member is disposed therein.

19. The handle of claim 11, wherein the head comprises an overstrike protection assembly for protecting the handle, andwherein the overstrike protection assembly comprises a first guard member, a second guard member, and a plurality of cross members,wherein the first and second guard members extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and substantially perpendicularly away from the lateral axis, and wherein the plurality of cross members extend from the first guard member to the second guard member.

20. The handle of claim 19, wherein the orifice in the head is surrounded by the first guard member, the second guard member, and the plurality of cross members and the core member is disposed therein.

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