Category: Product Reviews

Splitting Axe Vs Splitting Maul

June 6, 2019February 3, 2023 Willy Green 2 Comments

Splitting Axe Vs Splitting Maul

Gone are the days when we were forced to chop wood thanks to technological advancement that gave birth to crosscut saws and chainsaws. Wood chopping leads to loss of a lot of wood in terms of useless chips that you leave in the woods to rot. Splitting wood has eliminated the terrible inefficiency of chopping. Splitting is highly efficient in preparing larger tree trunks into firewood leading to no waste.

An axe is ideal for chopping wood while a maul is suitable for splitting. However, improvements in the axe head have to lead to the creation of splitting axes. This means a splitting axe is specifically designed for splitting wood just like splitting maul. The confusion now is whether we should split wood using a splitting axe vs splitting maul.

What Is a Splitting Axe?

A splitting axe is a tool with a tapered head made of metal and generally weighing about 3 to 6 pounds. It is designed to split wood along its grains in order to break the fibers apart unlike the traditional axes that cut wood along across its grains. When you swing the splitting axe down, the force produced by its head causes the wood hit to split.

This tool has a handle made either of wood or composite material. Generally, a wooden handle is more comfortable and aesthetically appealing but may be break easily due to impact, heavy use or wrong use. A composite material such as fiberglass may not look great but is very durable. The handle may also influence the overall weight of the splitting axe.

What Is a Splitting Maul?

A splitting maul is a wood splitting tool with a metal head weighing approximately 6 to 8 pounds (2.7 kgs to 3.6 kgs). Mauls have a wedge shaped head although certain modern models feature conical heads or swiveling sub-wedges. The head is wider than that of a splitting axe and this makes it better at splitting wood than traditional axes. The wide head ensures that maul does not stick in the wood when splitting wood, a major problem with traditional axes. The wedge section of a maul’s head must show slight convexity to prevent jamming.

The handle of this tool differs slightly from that of the splitting axe in design and functionality. Maul’s handle is closer to the round and straighter than that of an axe. The design makes the handle great for levering and swinging. The handles can be made from hickory, fiberglass, and plastic. Plastic handles are very durable meaning they are more difficult to break than handles made from wood or other material.

How Does A Splitting Axe Differ From A Splitting Maul?

It is common to hear some people refer to a splitting maul as splitting axe. However, there are numerous clear differences between these two tools. Let us consider a few of these differences:

1. Weight

As you might have learned from the above definitions, a splitting maul weights between 6 and 8 pounds while a splitting axe weighs between 3 and 6 pounds. This difference is weight is a double-edged sword so to say. Since splitting axes are multi-purpose and lighter allowing you to use it for longer without developing fatigue quickly but it reduces the efficiency of the tool. Splitting mauls are a little bit heavier but this gives them more efficiency in wood splitting.

2. Head Design

Perhaps the biggest difference is in the head design of these two tools. Splitting axes feature tapered heads with sharper blades. For this reason, it can cut wood as well as split wood and this is what makes these tools versatile and multipurpose. Mauls, on the other hand, have fatter and blunter heads with wider wedge making it extremely efficient in splitting wood along its great grains.

For this reason, splitting mauls require pure effort to work. If you use the right technique, you can find splitting firewood with a maul extremely easy. This explains the reason why you will find it extremely difficult to chop wood with a maul but it is possible with a splitting axe.

3. Handle Design and Material

Another clear difference between a splitting axe vs maul is the handle. A maul usually features a longer handle to guide the tool into the ground after it as finishes splitting the wood and not back in the direction of your feet. This is an important safety feature that prevents eliminate the risks of injuries due to unintended accidents.

Most splitting axes feature shorter handles in order to allow it to achieve wood splitting and wood chopping. The shorter handle allows you to lean over to limb a tree lying on the ground so that the splitting axe swings above the ground. To tell the difference between the two tools based on the handle, use your arm length as an approximate guide. If the handle of the tool is longer than your arm then it is a maul, and if the handle is shorter or equal length then it is splitting axe.

In most cases, splitting axe handles are made of wood but recently more brands are choosing to use composite materials. Splitting mauls, on the other hand, most commonly feature other materials such as plastic, fiberglass or hickory but wooden handles are also used.

4. Price Differences

There are no clear-cut differences between splitting axe and maul when it comes to price. However, if you compare a maul costing 50 dollars with a splitting axe costing the same amount, the splitting maul will be of a lesser quality. In other words, a splitting maul is just slightly costlier than a similar quality splitting axe.

Splitting Axe Vs Maul – What Is The Conclusion?

If you ask me, the choice is ultimately personal. The size of the wood piece you intend to split and the amount of work you have at hand should be the greatest determinants. In dealing with large chunks of wood, a maul will be a better alternative than an axe. You will split quicker but you will be exhausted much faster given the weight and size of a splitting maul.

If you have to deal with smaller pieces of wood or just splitting around the chunk edges than a splitting axe would be a better alternative. This choice is also great for shorter and smaller users because they are easier to swing, lighter to carry and may achieve the same results a splitting maul can deliver in similar sized wood chunks. Hopefully you now have a better idea on whether to use a splitting axe vs splitting maul.

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Fiskars Axe Review

September 1, 2018July 23, 2023 Willy Green No Comments

Fiskars Axe Reviews

When splitting wood, it is vital that you get the most out of the axe so that you're using the least amount of energy to split the wood. Its an essential part of wood processing that makes wood splitting simpler and easier. It also allows the wood to season much quickly by enabling air to penetrate all sides of the wood. Few brands are more accomplished than Fiskars when it comes to the production of splitting axes. The following Fiskars axe review is a testament to the quality and performance of two excellent splitting axes and splitting mauls currently in the market.

Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe, 36-Inch – The Best Fiskars Splitting Axe Review

Make every swing count with this extreme power axe. The Fiskars X27 36" axe is one axe that can allow you to split wood with much deeper chops and more single-swing cuts thanks to its performance-oriented design, features, and specifications. Here are a few of the highlights of the X27.

Nearly Unbreakable Axe

This axe is fitted with a unique fiber composite handle that is both lightweight and stronger than steel making the axe nearly unbreakable. The composite handle is not only durable, but also ergonomically comfortable so that you can use it for longer periods of time with less fatigue. The whole insert-molded head contributes to the resistance of the axe to break due to impact and other influences. The handle will not break even if you do not use the right technique to swing, unlike other models.

Quality and Performance-Oriented Blade Design

The Fiskars X27 36" axe steel head blade is engineered with a proprietary grinding technology that delivers a sharper edge for better contact and cleaner cuts. Furthermore, the blade includes a low-friction coating that protects it and ensures it stays sharper for longer. The surface also helps the blade to power through wood and prevents the head from being stuck. The sharpness of the edge and the coating are the reasons behind the high efficiency of this garden tool.

Great Power at Impact

The Fiskars X27 36" axe brings together perfect weight distribution with advanced blade geometry, durable handle design, and ultra-sharp edge to deliver incredible power at the impact. That means one swing with minimal effort and the wood will explode apart. It is obvious that some logs are more laborious to split than others, but this splitting axe easily splits the majority of the woods that you will come across.

Think of this splitting axe as an aluminum baseball bat. The perfect weight distribution provides a maximum power-to-weight ratio that improves swing speed to multiply power. The X27’s head features a unique convex steel blade that is much heavier and larger than other models in its class yet feels lighter than you would expect.

Long and Comfortable Handle

The 36-inch X27 handle enables you to apply more force with every swing than what an equal amount of effort will deliver with a shorter handle axe. This handle length makes the tool an ideal choice for taller individuals. The handle also features a non-slip grip at the end and a vibration-absorbing chamber. That means you will not feel each wood fiber giving away as you chop.

Pros

Well made tool for splitting wood effortlessly and with efficiency
Strong, durable and nearly unbreakable
Very easy to control and use
Comfortable and ergonomic non-slip handle
Lightweight but powerful for one-strike splits

Cons

The X27 super splitter 36-inch handle is only ideal for taller users
It may not work well with knottier wood pieces

The Fiskars Iso Core 8lb Maul Review

The Iso Core maul from Fiskars is the axe of choice for hardcore wood splitting. The maul is so named because it features Fiskars patented Iso Core Shock system designed to reduce shock and vibration by two times. The rugged, powerful maul is one of a kind that will help you take on tough wood splitting projects while helping to minimize joint pain and muscle fatigue. Several features provide for the great performance of this splitting maul.

A Dual Purpose Forged Steel Head

Unlike the Fiskars X27 that features only the splitting face, the Iso Core maul is dual purpose. It features forged premium steel head with a splitting face for wood part and a driving face for which you can use to drive wedges. Alternatively, you can strike the driving face with another tool during splitting to help for the wedge. The dual-purpose head makes the tool extremely versatile. The steel head features a rust-resistant coating.

Performance-Driven Head Design

The Iso Core splitting maul features optimized blade geometry that provides better penetration and blasts stubborn logs apart. The whole riveted head is designed to prevent it from sliding down or snapping off even when you have to swing with maximum force. Furthermore, the driving face can be hit with another object to boost log splitting further to ensure even the knottiest logs do not stand a chance.

Performance Handle Design

This survival tool has a dual-layer handle that presents a uniquely engineered amalgamation of insulating materials to dampen any lingering vibration as well as sleeve reinforced with steel to help protect the maul against over strike damage. The Iso Core maul features handle flares designed to keep the tool firmly in your hands when swinging to avoid accidents. An insulation sleeve is designed to capture the initial strike shock before it can reach your hands allowing you to work for long periods without fatigue.

The Fiskars yet-to-be-patented strategic handle texturing presents large dimples in the resting places of your fingers for optimal grip and small dimples where the palm rests to prevent the formation of blisters. Furthermore, the Soft grip handle provides a sculptured profile to fit the natural shape of your hand for better ergonomics.

Pros

Patented IsoCore shock system guarantees extra comfort and minimal body strain
Dual purpose head provides for versatile operation
Inseparable riveted head means the minimal chance of breakage and guaranteed durability
Softgrip handle designed to create closer profile to fit your hand ergonomically
Handle flares provide for additional security
Come with full lifetime warranty reflecting Fiskars’ unwavering confidence with the tool

Cons

Not as aesthetically appealing as the more traditional splitting mauls
May not be as balanced as Fiskars X27 Super Splitting axe and a few others in its class
The handle (36-inches) may be too long for shorter individuals

Conclusion

It is possible to find a dependable axe that can deliver the best when it comes to wood processing for the fireplace. These tools may not look sophisticated but they feature performance and quality-oriented designs that give them an upper hand when it comes to wood splitting. Both are easy to use and they are gentle on your hands meaning you can use them even for the hardest wood splitting jobs without discomfort or fatigue. Take time and check them out. I guess you will love either or both of them. Thank you for taking the time to read my Fiskars Axe review. Share it with someone who will need it.

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Best Splitting Maul – Buyer’s Guide & Review

September 25, 2017July 23, 2023 Willy Green 13 Comments

Best Splitting Maul – Buyer’s Guide & current Review

Chilly winter or cold nights in the jungle presents numerous health challenges. Even in our houses, it may not be enough to rely on HVAC. No wonder most homes have at least a fireplace. What about making fire in a campsite or during an emergency situation. The needs of fire are limitless. However, one this is sure: You will need to fuel it to burn steadily and continuously. The obvious fuel choice is wood. You will need constant supply of wood. At the center of it all is the best splitting maul.

What Is A Splitting Maul?

As mundane as it may sound, some people may not know what a splitting maul is. The fact that this tool has many names does not help either. It may go by many other names including sledge axe, blockbuster, hamaxe, block splitter or go-devil. Regardless of what you would call it, a splitting is a type of heavy axe with long handle. It splits pieces of wood along their grains (inside of the wood).

This is not to confuse a splitting maul with a regular axe, also known as splitting axe. A regular axe such as felling axe or clamp axe cuts pieces of wood against their grains. Thus an axe is what you will need to feel a tree by cutting into its bark. In terms of design, splitting mauls feature wedge-shaped heads and longer handles. In terms of usage, a maul swings downwards to split. But, a splitting axe swings across to fell a tree.

Image	Product Name	Our Rating	Price
	Fiskars Iso Core Maul 36-inch	Five Stars ****	$84.99
	Estwing Fireside Friend Axe	Four Stars ****	$34.98
	Husqvarna 32" Wooden Splitting Maul	Four Stars ****	$124.99
	Estwing Sportsman's Axe 12"	Four Stars ****	$49.99
	Truper 32415 12-Pound Splitting Maul	Four Stars ****	$69.99

Our Pick: Fiskars Iso Core Maul 36-inch

Our number one top recommendation is the Fiskars Iso Core 10lb Maul. It features a versatile 2-face design that allows use as splitting and driving tool. Its anti-shock and anti-vibration capabilities make it ideal for both personal and professional use. Another feature of efficiency is handle flair which offers superior grip. Further protection is provided by Iso Core’s insulation sleeve. The sleeve captures shock before it can reach your hands.

Iso Core delivers superior wood penetration. This is the work of its advanced blade geometry. That means you will split a wood with a single strike. Its 8-pound head features strong steel construction. The steel is coated to improve rust and corrosion resistance. Fiskars has high confidence in their models just like we do. They offer a lifetime warranty. Despite its great quality, the maul is extremely affordable. Thus it will give you value for your money.

How to Choose the Best Splitting Maul

Many questions usually linger in the minds of those out to shop for a particular product. Am I buying the right thing? How can I be sure of its quality and performance? These are just a few of the questions many people ask. Do find yourself asking a question when looking for the best splitting maul to buy? I guess you do. I hope this guide will help answer some of your questions. Here is how to choose a high-quality splitting maul:

1. Weight of the Splitting Maul

The overall weight of a splitting maul has great bearing on its performance. Generally, heavier models are great performers. This is much of the splitting force comes from the weight of the head. Personally, I would go for maul heads weighing 8 pounds or more. The heavier the poundage, the more force you will be capable of bringing down onto the wood. The result is a faster splitting of logs.

However, there is one drawback with heavier mauls. You will have to use extra effort with each swing. The result is that you will tire faster than you would with lighter models. The good news is that the effort is compensated for by faster splitting prospects. Lighter models will deliver less poundage. It will be difficult to split a log with a single strike. Thus you will do little in a long time.

Base your choice on your physical strength. Choose heavier models if you have the physical strength handle them. When making a choice, keep other users in the back of your mind. It is better to buy a maul that anyone in the family (except kids) can use comfortably. Lighter models can function both as splitting axe and splitting maul.

2. Single-Piece Forging or Socket?

Inspect the way in which the handle mounts into the head. Is the socket strong and durable? The amount of time your maul will serve you depends on the quality of the mount. Some models feature single piece forging. This means no such sockets are necessary. This gives single-piece models excellent durability. There will be minimal chances of the head coming off the socket during use.

Certain models feature wooden and metallic wedges. Good examples are those made of a steel-head and a wooden or plastic handle. These wedges help to fasten the handle to the head. The problem is that such sockets have the tendency failing with time. Imagine what would happen if the head comes off in the middle of a swing. Thus it would be better to go for mauls forged into single-piece.

3. Is The Maul Balanced?

High-quality mauls should feel balanced when being used. They also provide good leverage for accurate strikes. How do you tell the balance of a maul you have not even used? Balance defines the way the head is weighted in relation to the handle length. It also depends on the overall design and shape of the tool.

Splitting mauls with excellent balance are very easy to use. In fact, you may not need to employ any efforts to split wood. You simply lift the sledge axe. The swing will make use of kinetic energy (physical force) provided by the balanced design. .Yet, few manufacturers have achieved 100 percent balance. So it is your job to find out how a maul feels before you buy it.

In case all components of the maul sit well when brought together, such unit will have good balance. You must know that well-balanced mauls usually need perfect craftsmanship. They are almost always handcrafted. Therefore, they may not necessarily be cheap. Find more about how balanced a particular maul is. Visit online shops and reviews from verified purchasers. In a hardware store, simply take the tool and try swinging it.

4. The Maul’s Handle

The handle is the point of contact between you and your tool. It determines the grip, comfort, and ergonomics associated with using the maul. Traditional models of splitting mauls feature wooden handles. I bet you will agree that handles made from wood are comfortable and elegant. Today, manufacturers use fiberglass and other composite materials.You can read more about How to Replace a Splitting Maul/Axe Handle.

Such materials are durable and lightweight. However, they may not deliver the same amount of comfort wooden handles provide. Very high-quality models with non-wood handles feature anti-shock and anti-vibration ergonomics. These features will make the mauls easier on your wrists when working.

Grip is extremely important. Ignore it and you can suffer at the handles of your own maul. High-quality models add an anti-slip feature on the handle to prevent unnecessary slippage. Such features are easier to add on handles made of composite materials. Wooden handles are quite fixed. Choose composite material if you are going to use your maul extensively. It sounds funny but mauls with wooden handles are still the most expensive.

5. Wedge Size and Sharpness

The strength and splitting efficiency of any splitting maul depend on its wedge. A common misconception is that you do not need a sharp wedge to split wood. The fact is that a splitting maul must be sharp. But, it should not have fine edges seen with axes. When shopping for maul, check the edges of its wedge. It should be as sharp as possible.

Wedge size is another important consideration. Large wedges will have higher penetrative force. This will make your work easier and faster. The surface of the wood a large wedge will hit is wide. Such mauls are also heavy. The combination of large, heavy and sharp-edge wedge deliver the best splitting efficiency.

6. Your Budget

Unless you a millionaire, spending on anything is always a struggle between needs and savings. You have to face the fact that you must take the slightest opportunity to save. Does this mean you are doomed to only buy cheap stuff? By no means should you even consider this? Try to strike a balance between your budget and the quality of the maul you desire. Set aside the amount you are willing to spend. Then you can make your choice based on that budget. Sometimes it pays to buy a high-quality and costly stuff once and for all. A high-quality maul may be a little costly but it will give you years of reliable service.

Top 5 Splitting Maul Reviews

1. Fiskars Iso Core Maul 36-inch

The Fiskars Iso Core is a 10-pound splitting maul with two-face design. It has a splitting face and a driving face. Fiskars is a household brand and one of the most famous. The brand has been providing the market with some of the best garden and outdoor tools. The first of Iso Core’s innovative technology is optimized blade geometry. The blade offers incredible penetrative power. Even the toughest logs will bow to its power.

The maul boasts of Fiskars Iso Core shock system. The system allows the maul to absorb strike shock and vibration. The objective of this patented system is to minimize the beatings your body will have to take with each strike. Iso Core will transfer twice as less vibration and shock compared to other models. This will mean that you can split logs all day long without a problem.

Another incredible feature that sets the Iso Core apart is the handle flair. The feature keeps the maul firmly in your hands while you swing. This means a lot to your safety. It will reduce the chances of accidental slippage that can lead to nasty injuries. To add to your comfort, the maul features an insulation sleeve. The sleeve stretches a few inches from the head. It serves to capture initial shock before it can reach your hands.

To guarantee you years of reliable service, the maul features durable material. The construction material of the head is forged; heat-treated steel. The rust-resistant coating of the steel means the maul will remain looking new after years of use. To crown it, Fiskars show you confidence in the quality of Iso Core 8lb maul by offering a lifetime warranty. Actually, the maul is job site tested and approved before release to the market.

Pros

Advanced blade geometry guarantees easy wood penetration
Two-faced design is versatile
Riveted, inseparable head offers excellent durability
Soft grip and smart design handle provides for hours of use
Handle flair provides for your security

Cons

Not as beautiful as handcrafted models
Missed strikes can break the handle over time
Plastic handle is light but has questionable durability

2. Estwing Fireside Friend Axe

Estwing Fireside Friend is a good alternative if for any reason you cannot buy the Iso Core. This 4-pound maul has advanced features that make it ideal for any homeowner or survivor. It presents a nice blue finish that masks its great quality and performance. The maul originates from America. It features premium steel forged into a single piece for unmatched durability. The lack of detachable parts is a blessing. It guarantees strength, durability and years of reliable performance.

The maul features a nylon vinyl handle that provides excellent grip. The handle is extremely good in absorbing shock thus adding to comfort during use. It does this by reducing vibration due to impact by as much as 70 percent. Handling the maul is easy due to superior balance and temper. At 4-pounds, Estwing Fireside Friend is one of the lightest mauls. It can be used by almost anyone who knows how to split logs with a splitting maul.

The maul features a rugged ballistic nylon sheath to ensure your safety. The tool has a tempered 2-3/8-inch cutting edge. This will penetrate through all types of wood, even the hardwoods, for easy cutting. It needs only minimal effort to split even wide logs. This will save you a lot of productive time.

Pros

High-quality grip reduces shock and vibration
Compact in design but lightweight
Single-piece forged design is strong and durable
Beautiful, hand-polished finish
Tempered cutting edge has incredible penetrative power

Cons

Handle is too short for taller users
Too light to split larger logs
Single-piece forging is great but limits versatility

3. Husqvarna 32" Wooden Splitting Maul

Husqvarna is a popular brand and for good reasons. They have not disappointed with their 32-inch wooden splitting maul. Permit me to say that this tool is crafted almost to perfection. From design to performance, this unit has an edge over other 32-inch mauls. The head weighs 6.5 pounds, 1.5 pounds shy of that of Iso Core by Fiskars. The heavy head and long handle give this maul superior balance.

It has a double-faced head made of high-quality steel. There is a wedge face for splitting wood and a solid hammer for driving steel wedges. The feature gives the tool high levels of versatility. You can use the tool for more than splitting logs. The long handle is crafted from hardwood. Coupled with a glossy finish, the handle looks luxurious.

The steel two-face head fits the handle perfectly through wood and steel wedges. This ensures the head strongly fits on the handle. Thus it will not detach despite extensive use. The maul will come with a nice leather sheath designed for its wedge. Such sheath protects the wedge from environmental elements. The result is years of service without corrosion or rusting.

Pros

Splits large logs fast and easy
Useful as a sled or in combination with splitting wedge
Handcrafted hardwood wooden handle
Well-balanced and works accurately
A leather sheath protects its wedge

Cons

The hardwood handle comes unfinished
Long handle locks out shorter users

4. Estwing sportsman's Axe 12"

In case you love to split firewood in style then go for the Estwing Sportsman's Axe 12". With a 12-inch handle, it is one of the most compact splitting mauls. The maul is so compact; you can even use it by a single hand. Similar to other Estwing mauls, this tool features single forged piece. The piece is made of strong and durable steel. Such design and construction material means the tool will take on tough woods, but never bow.

It features a weighted wedge design that will ease any chopping and splitting job. The wedge is very sharp and this will split all types of wood with a single strike. The other side of the face is a hammer for driving applications. These are features of versatility. You do not have to worry about discomfort during an extended splitting task. Estwing Sportsman's Axe 12" features a handle made from genuine stacked leather.

For optimal wood penetration, the maul features a sharp and geometric cutting edge. Most wood will split with a single strike that is well-executed. The cutting-edge measures 2-3/8-inch. Its compact size means you can carry it easily without attracting undue attention. The Estwing Special Edition is one of the most affordable splitting mauls in the market.

Pros

Lightweight and compact in design
Stacked leather handle provides superior grip
Forged in a single piece for strength and durability
Sharp and geometric cutting edge for splitting efficiency
An affordable splitting maul

Cons

Handle too short for taller users
More strength required to split wood due lightweight design
Pockets on hammerhead not appealing

5. Truper 32415 12-Pound Splitting Maul

Truper 32415 may not match the quality and performance of the other splitting mauls we have reviews so far. However, it has salient features that set it apart as a great maul. Its strongest point is affordability. Are looking for a good quality sledge axe yet you have limited cash to spend? I bet Truper 32415 would be an ideal choice.

The tool has a massive 12-pound head with 27-inches handle. The heaviness of the maul makes it ideal for splitting large diameter logs. The weight of the head also means most longs will come apart with a single, well-executed strike. The handle feature medium length stainless steel construction. The handle is rubber guarded to prevent unnecessary slippage during use. Besides excellent grip, the handle is comfortable and ergonomic.

Handcrafting usually allow artists to pay attention to detail. Therefore, the results are always great quality. Truper 32145 is a handcrafted product of a Mexican company. Although made by hand, the maul features modern technology. The result is great balance and leverage. The technology ensures reliable performance of the maul in various applications. The combination of these features will guarantee you quick and efficient results.

Pros

Durable steel construction
Handcrafted for strong, durable and stylish finish
Splits large logs swiftly, easily and efficiently
Rubber guarded handle provides comfort and protection
A highly affordable maul

Cons

The heavyweight may not auger well with some users
The handle should have been longer
Comes with blunt blades

Conclusion

I know the information we provided you with is mouthful. Yet, it is what you need to make the right decision in finding the best splitting maul for your needs. Finding a high-quality splitting maul will guarantee you enough supply of firewood for any application. All the brands and models we have included in our review are tested for quality.

Although they differ in quality and performance, we believe they are the best considering their prices. They will deliver performances only comparable to those of extremely expensive models. Now the ball is in your courts. To buy one, simply click the link provided. You will see for yourself why we consider them the best. You can even read real customer reviews to help you make an informed choice.

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Best Splitting Axe – Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

June 6, 2017July 23, 2023 Willy Green No Comments

Best Splitting Axe - Buyer's Guide & Reviews

You’ll be surprised to see the versatile use of a good axe and how effective it can be. Whether you are a casual user or a pro at using an axe, this simple guide will help you to better choose the best tool for your wood. This is a guideline and review based on personal experience while using the axes as well as how other buyers have reacted to its usefulness. After going through this user guide, you’ll get a clear idea of what you should look for in your desired axe. Follow these step by step details to choose the right axe for your particular situation. At the end of this article, you’ll have a much better idea of exactly what it is that you want from your axe as well as what it is capable of doing. These are the best in the market right now.

Top 5 Best Splitting Axes

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Best Splitting Axe Buying Guide

The first and foremost thing that you need to consider while buying an axe is your purpose. Why are you buying this axe? What are you gonna cut with it? How long do you wanna work with this axe?

Cause there are so many options for axes in the market. And if you don’t set your purpose straight you can’t get the best tool out of the market. Sure, there are plenty of multipurpose axe as well but that doesn’t give you the quality of service that you want from your axe or splitting maul.

After considering your purpose you need to consider your budget. You need to think for yourself how much you are willing to spend for a particular axe. Your budget allows you or stops you from buying any certain product so you need to set your budget carefully. Now that we have gone through the basics, let’s look at the specs that we need to focus on while buying the best wood splitting axe for you;

Length and Weight

Length and weight of an axe are one of the crucial factors. If you want to chop bigger and thicker pile of wood then you need to focus on a rather long and heavy axe. But if you want to cut down a small pile of wood and use your axe as a hatched then you need to move to a shorter version of the axe.

Material of the Axe

You need to review what the axe is made of. Both the axe head and the handle. Different materials give different advantages to the axe. Some make it sharper, some make it shock resistant and some make it heavier. Depending on your need you should consider which type of material would be the best fit for you. There are wooden handle, synthetic handle, polymer handle, ash handle and many other options while choosing your desired handles. And the head is mostly made out of forged steel but you need to review if it is laminated or not or if there’s any mix of the chemical in the head or not.

Style of the Handle

You need to decide whether you want a straight handle or a curved handle. Curved handle makes it easier to chop down the woods as it feels more natural in the hand. In the other hand, straight handles are easier to control but it creates more friction. So, if you wanna work for longer then curved handle should be the one for you but if you wanna get the work done quickly then you should go for the straight handles.

Bit of the Axe

Well, there is the two-bit option while purchasing an axe. You get to buy the single bit ones which are more like a knife and the double bit ones which are more like a dagger. You should select your bit depending on the purpose of the axe. If your work needs axe which has the blade on both sides then you should go double bit otherwise you should go for single bit axes.

Modern or Antique

You have to take into account whether you want a modernised axe or an antique one. If you want an antique one it might cost more penny and if you want a modern one then it might be more productive. You can go to a pawn shop to figure out whether it is an antique piece or not.

Top 5 Best Splitting Axe Review

If you have mastered these specs of buying an axe then you are good to go. All you need to do now is bring out your credit card and look through these following options. These are the ruler of the current axe market based on their performance and their receptions. Here is my top five best splitting axe reviews;

1.Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe, 36-Inch

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check for any sign of breakage in the product as that would allow you to get an instant replacement.
check to see how easy it is to sharpen the head of the axe. The head is soft and sturdy at the same time making it easier to sharpen.
The wideness of the blade is debatable because it takes multiple chops for wider logs.

2.Estwing E45ASE 26-Inch Special Edition Camper's Axe-All Steel

check out the signature blue color in the handle. And who doesn’t love blue, right?

The axe might break down at the end if any faulty swings are made with it.

3.Estwing E44A 16-Inch Camper's Axe-All Steel with Shock Reduction Grip

All of the Estwing’s products have a very long lifecycle; this particular axe will last for decades.
Smooth blades make it easier to chop woods in one swing and do not stick to the wood.
Signature shock reduction techniques are added to this piece of art as well.
Easy to carry and light in weight so it’s a great addition to your camping bag.
Good for chopping small logs and medium sized logs.

Harder to cut semi-soaked wood with this tool.
One piece body makes the handle create more friction with the hand.
Can’t use the axe for chopping larger sized woods. It would take more time to do so.

4.Estwing E14A 12-Inch Sportsman's Axe with Leather Grip & Sheath

The handle is made out of stacked leather so it gives you superior grip on the axe.
A laminated coating is provided all over the axe making it immune to rusting.
Shock reduction grip makes you work with more ease without worrying.
The blade is super sharp and the curves are well balanced making it much easier to chop down big chunks of wood.
It can be used both an axe and a hatchet making your investment on it more worthwhile.

The leather cover on it is made in Taiwan which is kinda odd considering the whole thing is made in America and it’s a signature American thing.
It is hard to operate if you need more power or consider using both hands.
The ring area of the handle might leave a minor mark on your hands while using it.

5.Husqvarna 19" Wooden Splitting Axe

Heavy blade makes it easier to cut down a thick pile of woods.
It’s completely rust free making your tool last for a very long period of time.
The body is made of wood giving you the traditional feel of an axe.
The length and the weight are distributed in such a way that it takes less effort to cut down wood and you get a perfect swing every time.
The head can be easily sharpened as it is made out of forged steel.

The look of this tool is boring! They could easily make this axe into a fantastic looking one.
Some say the head of the axe is too heavy to handle.
The head tends to get stuck on the log.

Conclusion

So, my dear woodpeckers. It is obvious that these axe's are now ruling the axe market and you can’t really point out a best from these few. The best one for you actually depends on your purpose of using the tool.

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