Abstract: An implement handle includes an axially elongated core member having a varying cross-sectional outer dimension, and an outer polymeric shell having axially-oriented substantially-continuous strength members, the outer shell enclosing and being bonded to the core and of substantially uniform thickness. The handle may include a wood core and a bendable portion integral with the shell, the bendable portion being adapted to fit within a handle socket of a tool.

Abstract: The cushioning step for the blade of a tool, according to the invention, has an elongated elastomeric member having an axially-extending, blade-engaging, generally L-shaped slot, oriented so that the step may be placed on the top edge of the blade of a tool wherein the blade is positioned in the slot. The slot is located intermediate the opposed side faces of the stop to define opposed saddle portions which rest on the opposed sides of the blade. A generally horizontally-extending portion of the L-shaped slot accommodates the blade-top construction of a forwardly-turned shovel. An inwardly-turned projection is located at the lower portion of the slot for providing a line contact with the front-surface of the blade. The step further includes a pair of axially-extending, clip-receiving openings located on opposite sides of the blade-engaging slot for receiving the legs of a bifurcated clip for securing the step to the blade.

Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to improved lawn and garden rakes. The rake includes a rake head assembly having locking ramp means connected by flexibly resilient rake web means for releasable cooperation with portions of the tines so as to releasably retain the latter so as to facilitate tine replacement.

Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to improved lawn and garden rakes. The rake includes a rake head assembly having locking ramp means connected by flexibly resilient rake web means for releasable cooperation with portions of the tines so as to releasably retain the latter so as to facilitate tine replacement.

Abstract: An integrally molded plastic lawn rake head features a frame section composed of a first, comparatively inexpensive, synthetic resin having a relatively low modulus of elasticity and a tine section composed of a second, comparatively tougher, more elastic and wear-resistant synthetic resin; the tine section having a root portion integrally molded in and securely interlocked in intimate contact with the frame section to preclude separation of the tine section from the frame section of the lawn rake head.

Abstract: A snow shovel including a handle and a one-piece plastic scoop so formed of a minimum amount of material as to resist wear and breakage effectively. It has a self-sharpening reinforcing leading edge, a reinforcing flange at the remainder of its peripheral edge, a series of laterally-spaced reinforcing ribs extending from the leading edge rearwardly, and a centrally-disposed reinforcing keel or rib on its back surface extending from the leading edge to its handle-receiving socket. It also has crush ribs in the socket to allow the handle dimensional variations, prevent rotation of the scoop on the handle, and maintain a snug fit.

Abstract: A hand-shovel assembly consisting of a metal shovel head and a wooden handle, the head having a socket for receiving the end of the handle which is forced into the upper open end of the socket and is retained therein without the use of rivets, screws, or other fasteners. The handle end is retained in the socket by means of a set or cured adhesive which is inserted in a viscous state into the open lower socket end and, while still viscous, is forced around the inserted end of the handle by means of a plug of wood driven into the lower socket end.