Handle vs. Hilt — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Urooj Arif — Updated on May 6, 2024
A handle is a part of an object designed for grasping or holding by the hand, used in various tools and items, whereas a hilt specifically refers to the handle of a sword, knife, or similar bladed weapon.
Difference Between Handle and Hilt
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A handle is the part of any object intended to be held by the hand to facilitate use, found on items such as doors, tools, and cookware. Whereas a hilt is the specific term for the handle of a bladed weapon such as a sword or dagger, emphasizing its role in weapon use and safety.
Handles are designed based on the functionality and ergonomics required for a variety of tools and objects, focusing on comfort and effectiveness. In contrast, hilts are crafted to protect the hand during combat, often featuring components like guards and pommels for better grip and balance.
While handles can be made from a myriad of materials including wood, plastic, and metal, reflecting their broad utility and aesthetic, hilts are typically made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of combat, often adorned for aesthetic or ceremonial purposes.
The design of a handle may be simple or complex, tailored to the specific needs of the object's function, such as insulation for heat or texture for grip. On the other hand, a hilt is intricately designed not only for holding but also for protecting the hand from opponents' blows and from sliding onto the blade.
Handles are universal in their application across various objects and devices in everyday life, whereas hilts are specialized, primarily associated with weapons and their historical and cultural significance.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Part of an object designed to be held by the hand
The handle of a sword, dagger, or similar weapon
Purpose
To facilitate holding and using an object
To provide grip and protect the hand in combat
Common On
Tools, doors, equipment
Swords, daggers
Materials
Wood, plastic, metal, etc.
Metal, leather, wood, often reinforced
Design Focus
Ergonomics and functionality
Protection, balance, and control during use
Compare with Definitions
Handle
A name, title, or nickname by which someone is known or called.
His handle in the online forum made him easily recognizable.
Hilt
The handle of a sword, dagger, or other bladed weapon.
The knight’s sword had a hilt encrusted with jewels.
Handle
A part of an object designed for grasping or holding.
The handle of the kettle was ergonomically designed to prevent burns.
Hilt
A component consisting of the handle and all the parts attached to it, such as the guard and pommel.
The ornate hilt of the ceremonial sword was a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
Handle
The total amount of money taken in by a business during a given period.
The coffee shop had an impressive handle this weekend due to the local festival.
Hilt
Used to denote the extent to which a blade is embedded into something.
The hero plunged the dagger up to the hilt into the monster.
Handle
The grip or part by which something is held for manipulation.
The handle on the old basket made it easier to carry heavy loads.
Hilt
The part of a weapon that offers protection to the hand.
The hilt’s guard was designed to deflect oncoming strikes effectively.
Handle
A means of understanding, controlling, or approaching a subject or problem.
She has a good handle on the project's requirements.
Hilt
Referring to the grip area, often including decorative or functional enhancements.
His favorite sword featured a leather-wrapped hilt that ensured a firm grip even in wet conditions.
Handle
A handle is a part of, or attachment to, an object that allows it to be grasped and manipulated by hand. The design of each type of handle involves substantial ergonomic issues, even where these are dealt with intuitively or by following tradition.
Hilt
The hilt (rarely called a haft or shaft) of a knife, dagger, sword, or bayonet is its handle, consisting of a guard, grip and pommel. The guard may contain a crossguard or quillons.
Handle
To touch, lift, or hold with the hands
You should wash your hands before you handle food.
Hilt
The handle of a bladed weapon or tool.
Handle
To operate with the hands; manipulate
Can handle a jigsaw.
Hilt
The handle of a sword, consisting of grip, guard, and pommel, designed to facilitate use of the blade and afford protection to the hand.
Handle
To deal with or have responsibility for; conduct
Handles matters of corporate law.
Hilt
The base of the penis.
Handle
To cope with or dispose of
Handles problems efficiently.
Hilt
(transitive) To provide with a hilt.
Handle
To direct, execute, or dispose of
Handle an investment.
Hilt
A handle; especially, the handle of a sword, dagger, or the like.
Handle
To manage, administer to, or represent
Handle a boxer.
Hilt
The handle of a sword or dagger
Handle
To deal or trade in the purchase or sale of
A branch office that handles grain exports.
Handle
To act or function in a given way while in operation
A car that handles well in the snow.
Handle
A part that is designed to be held or operated with the hand
The handle of a suitcase.
The handle of a faucet.
Handle
A means of understanding or control
Has a handle on the situation.
Handle
(Slang) A person's name.
Handle
An alternate name or nickname, especially one chosen for self-identification on online forums or citizens band radio.
Handle
(Games) The total amount of money bet on an event or over a set period of time.
Handle
The part of an object which is (designed to be) held in the hand when used or moved.
Handle
An instrument for effecting a purpose (either literally or figuratively); a tool, or an opportunity or pretext.
Handle
(gambling) The gross amount of wagering within a given period of time or for a given event at one of more establishments.
The daily handle of a Las Vegas casino is typically millions of dollars.
Handle
(textiles) The tactile qualities of a fabric, e.g., softness, firmness, elasticity, fineness, resilience, and other qualities perceived by touch.
Handle
(slang) A name, nickname or pseudonym.
Handle
(slang) A title attached to one's name, such as Doctor or Colonel.
The successful businessman was knighted and acquired a handle to his name.
Handle
(computing) A reference to an object or structure that can be stored in a variable.
This article describes how to find the module name from the window handle.
Handle
A 10 fluid ounce (285 mL) glass of beer.
Handle
(US) A half-gallon (1.75-liter) bottle of alcohol.
Handle
A point, an extremity of land.
The Handle of the Sug in Newfoundland
Handle
(topology) A topological space homeomorphic to a ball but viewed as a product of two lower-dimensional balls.
Handle
(algebraic geometry) The smooth, irreducible subcurve of a comb which connects to each of the other components in exactly one point.
Handle
(transitive) To touch; to feel or hold with the hand(s).
Handle
To accustom to the hand; to take care of with the hands.
Handle
(transitive) To manage, use, or wield with the hands.
Handle
(transitive) To manage, control, or direct.
Handle
(transitive) To treat, to deal with (in a specified way).
She handled the news with grace
The Persians handled the French ambassador shamefully
Handle
(transitive) To deal with (a subject, argument, topic, or theme) in speaking, in writing, or in art.
Handle
(transitive) To receive and transfer; to have pass through one's hands; hence, to buy and sell.
A merchant handles a variety of goods, or a large stock
Handle
To be concerned with; to be an expert in.
Handle
(transitive) To put up with; to endure (and continue to function).
I can't handle this hot weather.
Handle
(intransitive) To use the hands.
Handle
To illegally touch the ball with the hand or arm; to commit handball.
Handle
(intransitive) To behave in a particular way when handled (managed, controlled, directed).
The car handles well
Handle
To touch; to feel with the hand; to use or hold with the hand.
Handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh.
About his altar, handling holy things.
Handle
To manage in using, as a spade or a musket; to wield; often, to manage skillfully.
That fellow handles his bow like a crowkeeper.
Handle
To accustom to the hand; to work upon, or take care of, with the hands.
The hardness of the winters forces the breeders to house and handle their colts six months every year.
Handle
To receive and transfer; to have pass through one's hands; hence, to buy and sell; as, a merchant handles a variety of goods, or a large stock.
Handle
To deal with; to make a business of.
They that handle the law knew me not.
Handle
To treat; to use, well or ill.
How wert thou handled being prisoner?
Handle
To manage; to control; to practice skill upon.
You shall see how I will handle her.
Handle
To use or manage in writing or speaking; to treat, as a theme, an argument, or an objection.
We will handle what persons are apt to envy others.
Handle
To use the hands.
They have hands, but they handle not.
Handle
That part of vessels, instruments, etc., which is held in the hand when used or moved, as the haft of a sword, the knob of a door, the bail of a kettle, etc.
Handle
That of which use is made; the instrument for effecting a purpose; a tool.
Handle
The appendage to an object that is designed to be held in order to use or move it;
He grabbed the hammer by the handle
It was an old briefcase but it still had a good grip
Handle
Be in charge of, act on, or dispose of;
I can deal with this crew of workers
This blender can't handle nuts
She managed her parents' affairs after they got too old
Handle
Interact in a certain way;
Do right by her
Treat him with caution, please
Handle the press reporters gently
Handle
Deal with verbally or in some form of artistic expression;
This book deals with incest
The course covered all of Western Civilization
The new book treats the history of China
Handle
Touch, lift, or hold with the hands;
Don't handle the merchandise
Handle
Handle effectively;
The burglar wielded an axe
Handle
Show and train;
The prize-winning poodle was handled by Mrs. Priscilla Prescott
Common Curiosities
Can all hilts be considered handles?
Yes, all hilts are handles specifically designed for bladed weapons, but not all handles are hilts.
Why is the design of a hilt important in weapons?
The design of a hilt is crucial for ensuring the weapon's effectiveness in combat, providing grip, balance, and hand protection.
What materials are commonly used to make handles and hilts?
Handles can be made from a variety of materials including wood, plastic, and metal, depending on the object's use. Hilts are typically made from sturdy materials like metal or reinforced composites to withstand combat conditions.
What are some examples of objects that might have a handle but not a hilt?
Examples include brooms, screwdrivers, and doors, which have handles designed for effective use but do not require the specialized features of a hilt.
How do the purposes of handles and hilts differ in their respective tools?
Handles are designed to make the use of any tool or object easier and more effective, while hilts are designed to maximize control and safety in the specific context of weapon use.
What impact does handle design have on the functionality of an object?
The design of a handle can greatly affect the functionality of an object, influencing comfort, control, and the efficiency with which the object can be used.
Can the design of a hilt affect the value of a weapon?
Yes, the craftsmanship and materials of a hilt can significantly affect the aesthetic and monetary value of a weapon, especially in historical or ceremonial pieces.
What is the main difference between a handle and a hilt?
A handle is a general term for the part of an object designed for holding, used in a variety of contexts, while a hilt specifically refers to the handle of a bladed weapon.
Are there any special considerations in the maintenance of hilts?
Hilts often require specific maintenance to keep the weapon safe and effective, including cleaning and conditioning any leather components and ensuring that metal parts are rust-free.
How have the designs of handles and hilts evolved over time?
The designs have evolved to incorporate better materials, ergonomics, and aesthetics to meet modern standards and preferences in both utility and weapon contexts.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
