Chainsaw Repair

I know this is rather late to reply.  I came across this post by accident and figured I'd throw in my two-cents from personal experience in hopes it may help someone.  I've replaced quite a few axe/maul handles, and the best thing to do from my experience is only fit and install a new wood handle in the dead of winter when the humidity has been real low.  The wood is at maximum shrinkage then, so you will get a tight fit year round.  I use a "four-in-one rasp and file" for the rough work.  Then when the handle is getting closer to fit I resort to my pocket knife.  I often make my own wedge because the ones that come with the handle do not have enough taper to my liking.  As another fellow said select a handle with the grain running in same direction as you swing the tool.  I tend to look for handles at country hardware stores during my business trips to rural areas; otherwise, Ace has had some fairly decent handles and selection.  My handles don't get loose.  I had to order from the internet a handle for my eye-hoe once.