Step 1: Concept
Hand tools used in agriculture often have wooden handles that are subject to high stress where the metal blade is inserted.
Step 2: Meaning
The "tang" of the blade is driven into the wood, which can cause the wood to crack or split over time.
Step 3: Analysis
A ferrule is a tight-fitting metal ring or cap placed over the end of the wooden handle. It compresses the wood and prevents it from expanding and splitting under the pressure of the tang.
Step 4: Conclusion
This component is the ferrule.
Final Answer: (A)