I bought a couple of pair of MiHec's mould handles. They are very well made (and of solid steel) with nice handles and tubular SS ferrules.
The ferrules were loose, so I decided to do what I do with ALL mould handles. In this case, I used Gorilla Glue, applied with a Que Tip to the wood that is covered by the ferrule and slid the ferrules over the glue. Gorilla Glue expands as it dries for a tight fit.
I then used a 3/32" drill and drilled the ferrule and installed a
3/32"x 1" roll pin (also called a tension pin). I drove it in flush on one side and ground it flush on the other side. To make things clear, I took some photos:
First, I used a center punch to mark the drill point:
Then, using a drill press, I drill through the ferrule, the wood, the steel, the wood again, and the other side of the ferrule. Then I install the roll pin. (Use the same size of drill for the roll pin - I use 3/32" drill for a 3/32"x1" roll pin. That insures the correct tension on the pin).
I seat the roll pin flush with the first side. Then, using a dremel tool with grind stone, I grind the other end flush. Be sure to go deep enough that it will not cut your fingers.
This makes an excellent pair of handles even better. They should never give any further problems.
I have never had a handle break until if first came loose from the steel. Then, with extra play, the wood fails as you squeeze the handles. I have handles, over the years, fail from Saeco, Lyman and Lee. Now, when the handles are new (regardless of brand) I "improve" them before I ever use them.
Dale53