A modular handle for increment borers: Improving versatility, efficiency, and safety in dendrochronological fieldwork
Journal
Dendrochronologia
Journal Volume
97
Start Page
126524
ISSN
1125-7865
Date Issued
2026-05
Author(s)
Abstract
Tree-ring data serve as crucial proxy records of past environmental processes. Hence, the tools used for sample collection of increment cores are critical for good-quality samples and fieldwork crew safety. The design of the standard handle used for common manual increment borers has remained basically unchanged since increment borers were first developed, despite certain weaknesses. Here, we introduce a modular borer handle with key advantages being: (i) adjustable length, (ii) compatibility with borers of various diameters, and (iii) a secure locking mechanism that enhances safety, especially when the borer gets stuck. Additionally, the wider diameter of the handle reduces the risk of bending and improves grip, particularly compared to the handles supplied with the commonly used 5-mm increment borers. We propose that the introduced universal modular handle is especially beneficial for researchers using borers of different sizes, as it eliminates the need for multiple handles, reducing weight and cost while improving safety.
Subjects
Dendrochronology
Fieldwork safety
Fieldwork tools
Increment borer
Stuck borer
Tree-ring sampling
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Type
journal article