Old Style Tap Handle Review (Updated | Apr 27th)
Selecting an old style tap handle requires careful consideration of spindle compatibility, material durability, and ergonomic design. These traditional fixtures often feature cross-head or lever configurations that must align with existing valve stems to ensure a leak-free fit. This guide evaluates various models based on their construction quality, ease of installation, and historical accuracy. Understanding the technical specifications and finish options is essential for achieving both functional performance and aesthetic consistency in classic plumbing systems.
Key Takeaways
- The Premium Hardwood Craft is best for home bars where an upscale aesthetic and natural grip are priorities.
- Select the Essential Spare Part when you need a functional, cost-effective replacement for high-traffic commercial beverage systems.
- Choose the Premium Hardwood Craft for compact draft towers to ensure clearance in tight under-cabinet spaces.
- Prioritize solid hardwood materials over plastic to ensure long-term durability and a sturdier feel during daily use.
- Verify that the handle height will not interfere with tap operation if your setup has limited overhead clearance.
MRbrew 2-Piece Solid Wood Brown Cylinder Beer Tap Handles
Premium Hardwood Craft
- Solid hardwood construction provides a sturdy, high-quality feel.
- The compact 3-inch size is perfect for tight spaces.
- Rich brown finish adds an upscale look to any bar.
- BEST FOR ESSENTIAL SPARE PART: Beverage Factory KegWorks Black Beer Tap Faucet Handle Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PREMIUM HARDWOOD CRAFT: MRbrew 2-Piece Solid Wood Brown Cylinder Beer Tap Handles Read More ↓
- BEST FOR RUSTIC LOTUS WOOD: LitKiwi 2-Piece Rustic Brown Wooden Beer Tap Handles Read More ↓
- BEST FOR VINTAGE BLACK AESTHETIC: LitKiwi 2-Piece Rustic Black Wooden Beer Tap Handles Read More ↓
- BEST FOR UNIQUE NOVELTY DESIGN: Pacific Giftware 2nd Amendment Inspired Beer Tap Handle Read More ↓
- BEST FOR MULTI-TAP VALUE PACK: LitKiwi 4-Piece Rustic Brown Wooden Beer Tap Handles Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMMERCIAL BULK CHOICE: MRbrew 10-Piece Black Plastic Beer Tap Handles Read More ↓
- BEST FOR POLISHED WALNUT FINISH: Pastlla 4-Inch Wooden Classical Beer Tap Handle Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Old Style Tap Handle
Beverage Factory KegWorks Black Beer Tap Faucet Handle
If you have a home bar or a kegerator, you know that sometimes the most basic gear is exactly what you need. This hard plastic handle from KegWorks is the quintessential ‘old school’ pub style.
It’s not trying to be fancy; it’s just a reliable, jet-black replacement that feels familiar in your hand. I’d recommend this to anyone who just broke their original handle or wants to keep a few spares in the drawer for emergencies.
It fits all standard faucets, making it a true universal replacement that takes seconds to screw on. The 9-inch length gives you plenty of leverage for a smooth pour without hitting the back of your fridge.
However, because it is made of hollow plastic, it doesn’t have that satisfying weight you get from wood or ceramic. It can feel a little ‘cheap’ if you are used to premium handles, but for the price, it’s the most practical way to get the beer flowing again quickly.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The classic black design fits any home bar aesthetic.
- Hard plastic construction makes it very easy to wipe clean.
- It serves as a perfect, affordable emergency backup handle.
- Standard threading ensures it fits almost every US beer faucet.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The hollow plastic feels lightweight and less premium.
- Visible mold lines on the sides detract from the look.
MRbrew 2-Piece Solid Wood Brown Cylinder Beer Tap Handles
There is something about the feel of natural materials that just makes the pouring experience better. These MRbrew handles are made from solid hardwood with a really nice rich brown finish that brings a warm, rustic vibe to your setup.
You get a 2-pack of these 3-inch cylinders, which is great if you have a dual-tap tower. They are much shorter than standard plastic handles, giving your kegerator a sleek, low-profile look.
The ergonomic cylindrical design feels great in the palm, and the wood grain provides a bit of natural grip even if your hands are a little damp from condensation. They use a standard 3/8 inch thread, so they’ll work on everything from nitro coffee setups to standard beer taps.
The only real catch is that because they are natural wood, the grain and color might not perfectly match between the two handles in the box, which might bug you if you’re a perfectionist.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Solid hardwood construction provides a sturdy, high-quality feel.
- The compact 3-inch size is perfect for tight spaces.
- Rich brown finish adds an upscale look to any bar.
- Natural wood grain offers a better grip than smooth plastic.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Wood grain patterns may vary significantly between the two handles.
- The shorter length provides less leverage for sticky faucets.
LitKiwi 2-Piece Rustic Brown Wooden Beer Tap Handles
If you are tired of those cheap plastic handles that come standard with most kegerators, these LitKiwi lotus wood handles are a breath of fresh air. I love the rustic brown finish because it gives off a warm, vintage pub vibe without costing a fortune.
They feel surprisingly sturdy in your hand, thanks to the brass internal threading, which means you won’t have to worry about the wood stripping over time when you’re cranking out pours. At just under 4 inches long, they are the perfect low-profile solution for tight spaces where a full-sized tap handle might hit a cabinet or wall.
These are ideal for the home brewer who wants a clean, uniform look across a multi-tap setup. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the 3/8”-16 thread is standard for American faucets, but the wood grain and stain can vary slightly between the two pieces, so they might not be a perfectly identical match if you’re a total perfectionist.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The lotus wood feels solid and durable for daily use.
- Brass threads prevent stripping and resist corrosion over time.
- Compact size fits perfectly in cramped home bar setups.
- The rustic brown finish adds a high-end vintage aesthetic.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Natural wood grain variations mean handles might not match perfectly.
- The 4-inch length might feel too small for large hands.
LitKiwi 2-Piece Rustic Black Wooden Beer Tap Handles
For those who prefer a sleeker, more modern edge to their old-school setup, these rustic black wooden handles are a fantastic pick. They have that same classic silhouette but the dark finish makes the brass hardware pop, giving your kegerator a sophisticated, high-end look.
Because they are made from strong lotus wood, they can handle the constant pulling and pushing of a busy Friday night without cracking. They use the standard 3/8”-16 thread size, so they’ll screw right onto almost any American faucet lever, from standard bar taps to outdoor jockey boxes.
I’d recommend these to anyone looking to upgrade a dual-tap system on a budget since you get two handles per pack. Just a heads up: the black finish is quite matte, and while it looks great, it tends to show fingerprint smudges and dried beer drips more easily than the lighter brown version, so keep a rag handy.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The deep black finish offers a sophisticated, modern-retro look.
- Includes two handles for a consistent dual-tap appearance.
- Lotus wood construction is highly wear-resistant and tough.
- Fits all standard American beer faucets with ease.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The matte black surface shows splashes and smudges quickly.
- Short profile provides less leverage than traditional long handles.
Pacific Giftware 2nd Amendment Inspired Beer Tap Handle
If you are looking to add some serious personality to your home bar, this 2nd Amendment inspired handle is a total conversation starter. It’s got that heavy, substantial feel in your hand that makes pouring a pint feel like an event.
I love how it leans into that rugged, metallic aesthetic which looks killer on a matte black kegerator. It’s the perfect gift for a veteran or anyone who wants their setup to stand out from the typical plain black handles you see everywhere.
The standard 3/8-16 thread means it twists right on without any drama. However, you should keep in mind that the detailed resin molding can be a bit tricky to clean if you accidentally splash some sticky stout on it.
It’s definitely more about the bold statement than it is about sleek ergonomics, but for the right person, it’s the ultimate finishing touch for a man cave or garage brewery.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The heavy-duty construction feels very solid during every pour.
- Unique 2nd Amendment design stands out in any home bar.
- Fits standard American beer faucets with no adapters needed.
- Highly detailed craftsmanship makes it look like a custom piece.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The intricate texture is difficult to wipe clean after spills.
- Top-heavy design might cause leaks on loose faucet springs.
LitKiwi 4-Piece Rustic Brown Wooden Beer Tap Handles
There is something about natural lotus wood that just makes a home bar feel warmer and more inviting. This four-pack from LitKiwi is exactly what you need if you’re going for that rustic, old-world pub vibe.
The rich brown finish looks great against stainless steel, and because they are only 3.93 inches tall, they are a lifesaver if you have a low-profile setup or tight shelving above your kegerator. The internal brass threading is a huge plus because it won’t strip out like cheap plastic versions often do.
You get four in a pack, which is a steal for kitting out a multi-tap tower on a budget. The only real catch is that because they are natural wood, the grain and color won’t be a 100% identical match across all four handles.
If you’re a perfectionist who needs total symmetry, that might bug you, but I think it adds to the authentic handmade charm.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Durable lotus wood provides a comfortable and natural grip.
- Brass inserts prevent stripping and ensure a long-lasting fit.
- Compact height is perfect for tight spaces and low ceilings.
- Classic rustic aesthetic fits perfectly with traditional bar decor.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Natural wood grain varies slightly between each of the four handles.
- Small size might feel underwhelming on very large tap towers.
MRbrew 10-Piece Black Plastic Beer Tap Handles
If you are running a high-traffic bar or just hosted a massive backyard party, you know that things tend to get sticky and sometimes break. That is where this 10-piece set of MRbrew plastic handles comes in handy.
These are the classic, no-nonsense black handles you see in almost every commercial pub. They are made of a durable, moisture-resistant plastic that is incredibly lightweight, making them a breeze to swap out on any standard US 3/8-16 UNC thread faucet.
I love these for homebrewers who have multiple taps because they are so easy to wipe down after a messy pour. They feel surprisingly ergonomic in the hand despite being a budget-friendly option.
However, because they are hollow plastic, they lack that premium, heavy-duty weight you might want for a high-end home showroom. They are definitely more about utility than making a luxury statement, but for the price, having a full pack of spares is a total lifesaver for any kegerator setup.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The ten-pack offers incredible value for multi-tap systems.
- Lightweight plastic construction makes installation quick and effortless.
- Smooth surfaces are very easy to sanitize and keep clean.
- Fits all standard American beer towers and kegerators perfectly.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The hollow plastic feel lacks a premium, heavy-duty weight.
- Basic black aesthetic might look too industrial for fancy bars.
Pastlla 4-Inch Wooden Classical Beer Tap Handle
When you want your home bar to feel less like a basement and more like a high-end craft brewery, the Pastlla Walnut Tap Handle is the way to go. This isn’t some cheap imitation; it is crafted from genuine walnut wood that has been polished down until it’s silky smooth.
The classic oval shape fits naturally in your palm, giving you a really satisfying, tactile pull every time you pour a pint. It stands just over four inches tall, so it’s compact enough not to crowd your tower but still makes a statement with that rich, dark grain.
It fits the standard 3/8-inch threads, so it’ll screw right onto your existing faucet without any drama. The only real catch is that because it is natural wood, you have to be careful not to let it soak in water or it might lose that beautiful finish over time.
It’s the perfect upgrade for someone who values a retro, sophisticated look over basic plastic utility.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Premium walnut wood provides a beautiful, high-end aesthetic.
- The polished finish feels incredibly smooth and comfortable to grip.
- Compact four-inch height fits well in tight kegerator spaces.
- Heavy-duty construction ensures the handle will last for years.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Natural wood requires more careful cleaning than plastic handles.
- Only includes one handle per pack unlike bulk options.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
Which handle is best for a high-volume commercial environment?
The MRbrew 10 PCS plastic set is the most practical choice for busy bars because they are lightweight, moisture-resistant, and easy to sanitize. While they lack the aesthetic of wood, their durability and low replacement cost make them ideal for heavy daily use.
How do the wooden options like Pastlla and LitKiwi compare in quality?
The Pastlla Beer Tap is crafted from premium walnut with a polished finish, offering a more high-end feel than the LitKiwi 2Pcs Beer handles, which use lotus wood. However, LitKiwi stands out by using brass threading, which provides better corrosion resistance and a more secure fit over time compared to wood-only threads.
Are these handles compatible with my existing kegerator setup?
Most of these products, including the KegWorks Beer Tap, use the standard US 3/8″-16 UNC thread size. This fits almost all standard American beer faucets, towers, and jockey boxes, but you should always double-check if you have an imported European faucet which may require an adapter.
What should I look for regarding handle height and clearance?
When buying ‘old style’ or cylindrical handles, check the height to ensure they don’t hit the wall or the top of your fridge when pulled forward. The LitKiwi 2Pcs Beer handles are roughly 4 inches tall, which is a ‘low-profile’ size perfect for tight spaces where a full-sized decorative handle wouldn’t fit.
Is there a benefit to choosing hardwood over plastic for home use?
Hardwood options like the MRbrew 2 Pcs Solid Wood handle offer a better ergonomic grip and a classic aesthetic that plastic cannot match. While plastic is easier to clean, solid wood handles are treated for longevity and provide a more ‘premium’ tactile experience during your pour.
How do I prevent my tap handle from stripping the threads?
Always start the threading by hand to ensure it isn’t cross-threaded before tightening. If you frequently swap handles, look for models with metal inserts like the LitKiwi 4Pcs Beer set, as metal-on-metal connections are far less likely to strip than those where the threads are cut directly into the wood.
What is the best way to maintain a wooden tap handle?
Avoid submerging wooden handles in water or harsh sanitizers, as this can cause the wood to swell or the finish to crack. Instead, wipe them down with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a food-safe mineral oil to keep the wood from drying out and losing its luster.