Patent ID: 7721391

Claim:
A tool handle including a lock mechanism for releasably connecting handle extensions to tool handles having either compatible lock engaging end portions or standard internally threaded sockets, the lock mechanism comprising an adaptor mounted on an outboard end of a handle extension, the adaptor including an extension pole tip having spaced thread segments circumferentially and axially spaced along the extension pole tip, the extension pole tip being axially insertable into tool handle sockets having compatible lock engaging end portions and being threadably connectable to tool handles having standard internally threaded sockets, the tool handle with the compatible lock engaging end portions having a tool handle socket with circumferentially spaced segments and longitudinal slots or grooves between the circumferentially spaced segments sized for sliding receipt of the circumferentially spaced thread segments on the extension pole tip within the longitudinal slots or grooves during insertion and removal of the extension pole tip into and from the tool handle socket.