A tool such as a sledge or an axe is fastened on a handle by an adhesive which expands as it solidifies. A flexible sleeve is fitted on the handle and has a flange which is disposed at the lower end of the end portion of the handle that projects into the usual bore in the head. The flange closes the bottom of the bore and the sleeve includes an upwardly projecting extension which engages the lower end of the wall of the bore so that the flange and the extension locate the head properly on the handle in both the horizontal and vertical planes. The end portion of the handle which projects into the bore of the head is smaller in cross section than the bore to leave a space between this end portion and the wall of the bore and this space is filled with an adhesive which is liquid when it is poured into the base but which expands as it solidifies to provide a firm connection between the handle and the head. The flange on the sleeve serves the additional purpose of sealing the lower end of the bore in the head and thus holds the adhesive in the bore until the adhesive solidifies.