Continuous handrail: parts and terminology.

These are the main component handrail parts and teminology used in the manufacture of continuous wood handrail, along with a brief description of each.

Monkey's Tail or Wreathed Volute. This is at the start of a flight of stairs when the handrail curves round to sit over a 'D' tread, an ornate horizontal scroll that is supported by either a continuation of spindles or a Newel post.
'D' Tread. A 'D' tread is a tread that is wider than the normal width of the staircase.
Opening Cap or Bun. This is a less ornate version of the Monkey's tail and is used when the handrail finishes in a straight line, the cap is supported by a Newel post.
Ram's Horn or scroll. The Ram's horn is a vertical ornate scroll that attaches to the end of a run of handrail.
Drop end. A drop end is a section of the profiled handrail that is mitred to give it a vertical finish.
Profiled end. A profiled end is where the handrail is cut to length and and the pattern is continued round it.
Wreath. A wreath is a three dimensional turn, going up and round following the line of the staircase.
Ramp, easing, elbow or knee. A ramp is used to change from one pitch to another, this is normally found in the transition between landing and stairs but can also be found mid flight. there are two types of ramp: an over ramp or knee, an under ramp or elbow.
Goose neck or Swan's neck. This is found at the top of a flight of stairs and is used to change or maintain the hight of the handrail in the transition between stairs and landing.
Flat 90. This is a profiled two dimensional turn. It is used to change direction horizontally creating a curve rather than a mitred joint.