Types of axes for splitting wood. 2 – Know the specifics of different types of wood.

Types of axes for splitting wood Sep 29, 2024 · Tonnage ratings help find the right log splitter for the wood you’ll split. Best Wood Axe for Professional Use – Gransfors Bruks Outdoor Axe; Best Axe for Chopping Firewood – Estwing E44A Camper’s Axe Hatchet; Best Versatile Axe – 1844 Helko Werk Forester Axe ; Best Axe for Splitting Large Pieces of Wood – Fiskars 378841-1002 X27 Sep 23, 2021 · The Best Axes to Split Your Own Firewood, Tested The Best Axes to Split Your Own Firewood, Tested By Glenda Taylor , Stacey L. These axes often have a medium to long handle and a narrow head. Maul Axes Apr 4, 2025 · But that’s not all. Maul Sep 30, 2024 · None of the other axes split like the Stihl Pro Splitting Axe. Splitting Axe Overview Mar 1, 2024 · Fiberglass is a relatively new axe handle material that is popular due to its shock-absorbing abilities. This axe features a wedge-shaped blade profile that makes one-strike splits of firewood and logs a breeze, thanks to its optimized blade angles. The head of the A splitting axe is a type of axe specifically designed to split large pieces of wood. The splitting axe, also known as a splitting maul, is specifically designed for splitting wood along its grain. When you split wood, you need a splitting axe. Thus, it’s important to acknowledge the specifics of the type of wood you are about to split. These axes have a thick, heavy blade that is designed to split the wood along the grain. These are generally long-handled with a heavy, wedge-shaped head which helps split the wood along the grain to make smaller pieces. Dec 15, 2020 · 22. Roofing Axe : This versatile tool has two heads—one for cutting shingles and the other for hammering nails. Best Budget: Eletorot Camping Hatchet. Understanding the key features and differences between various axe types is crucial for finding the best tool for the job. Not all axes are suitable for splitting wood. 1 Best Axe for Splitting Wood Product List; 2 Best Overall Axe for Splitting Wood. These are employed for the biggest of splitting jobs. 2 estwing splitting maul; 2. For the average person, the splitting maul is the best axe for splitting wood. Splitting axes are typically shorter than felling axes, which allows for more control when striking the log. It has a flared blade with a thin tip. If you’re looking for an axe to chop firewood, a splitting axe is what you need. Nash 9 Types of Batteries Every Homeowner Should Know 9 Types of Splitting Axes. Jan 12, 2021 · A good splitting axe will last forever so bite the bullet, spend some money and feel secure in the knowledge that you own a proper mans axe! Here are some of my recommendations for a worthy splitting axe: Best Classic Splitting Axe: 1844 Helko Werk Germany Saxon Splitting Axe; Best American Splitting Axe: Gerber 36-Inch Power Splitting Axe Apr 17, 2022 · Types of Axes For Splitting Wood Felling Axes. May 6, 2025 · An ax is an ancient tool that we’re all familiar with, but it may surprise you to find out how many types of axes there are. 1. A splitting maul is a large, bulky tool used to split the most stubborn rounds of wood; a device reserved for finishing the job your axe can’t handle. Pictured: Wilton Tools 8 lb Splitting Maul. However, having an axe head that weighs more than six pounds will make it harder to lift and swing over a long period. The size and type of axe needed depends on whether the wood to be split is for logs or for kindling. There are several types of axes specifically designed for splitting wood, each with its own unique features and advantages. Feb 3, 2021 · A Maul, also known as a splitting maul, block splitter or sledge axe is a heavy, long-handled axe used for splitting logs along the grain. Another type is the splitting maul, specifically designed for splitting logs with its heavy head and long handle. Nov 13, 2024 · This wood-handled splitting axe is a heavy hitter. How to choose a suitable splitting axe. Few splitting axes have hardened polls that enable them to be used as hammers, in contrast to many mauls, which rely more on the shape and strength of the bit to split wood. Axes can cost anything from $15 to $200, with the average price being about $40. Best for Camping: Estwing Fireside Friend Axe. There are also some less common types of axe, such as the meat cleaver used in the kitchen, the ice pick used in mountain climbing and the fireman’s fire axe. Miner’s Axe When splitting wood, the handle is put under great strain at the axe head, as the handle can easily hit the log being split. They have a wedge-shaped head that is wider than that of a felling axe, making it easier to split wood. Again, think of this as a broad category that includes splitting mauls which are used for dense, hardwoods and splitting axes that are more manageable to use. Hatchets are small, one-handed axes that are versatile and Dec 22, 2022 · Unlike felling axes, which cut against the grain of the wood, splitting mauls cut with the grain, which is what results in split wood rather than chopped wood. Jan 6, 2024 · When it comes to splitting wood, having the right tool for the job is essential. Splitting axes are perfect for splitting logs into smaller pieces for firewood. Husqvarna Splitting Axe. However, these types of axes are substantially more expensive. Aug 22, 2023 · Best Axes for Splitting Wood: Final Thoughts. Mar 22, 2024 · Splitting mauls are long-handled heavy axes used for splitting a piece of wood along its grain. However, it has a wider and heavier head which allows for more force behind each swing. The handle of splitting axes is long and is usually made of wood such as hickory or ash which have the best shock absorption properties. We’ve checked every source to compile an exhaustive list of axes and what you use them for, and you’ll likely see a few you’re unfamiliar with. May 18, 2023 · How to choose a wood-splitting axe. All Gränsfors Splitting Axes come with a metal collar to protect the handle. Jan 23, 2021 · The best type of axe for splitting wood is a splitting axe or maul. S. For example, pine wood is easier to split once it’s well-dried. Hatchets and Tomahawks. This type of axe is used to split the grain. Seasoned wood, which has a moisture content of around 20%, burns hotter and generates more BTUs than green firewood . One such type is the hatchet, which is a small and versatile axe commonly used for splitting wood and camping. The price depends on the axe type, not to mention its function and also the brand. In this blog, we will explore the different types of axes available for splitting wood and help you determine which is best suited for your needs. Whether it’s something you enjoy or dread, it’s a task made easier with a splitting maul. In this section, we will explore three popular types of axes for splitting wood: maul axes, splitting axes, and wedge axes. VIEW ON AMAZON → “Splitting axe” is an umbrella term for various axes. Splitting the wood allows air to reach the wood from all sides, speeding up the drying process. Nov 3, 2023 · Splitting Axes. Its 5. The Husqvarna splitting axe is a cross between a hatchet and a maul, constructed of high-quality, drop forged steel with a sharp axe bit and flared edges that form a wedge, effectively cutting small to medium pieces of firewood. These axes have a heavy wedge-shaped head with a blade edge that is beveled and sharpened on both sides. Splitting axes often have a heavier head than felling axes, weighing between 3 to 6 pounds, which helps in driving the blade Oct 26, 2023 · 15. In this section, we will explore three popular types of axes: the Maul, the Splitting Axe, and the Wedge Maul. Need to chop wood across the grain, maybe for clearing brush or making firewood? That’s where Splitting axes and hammers: splitting your own wood. For our current blade-to-blade tests, we purchased the 12 top-rated contenders and put them to work clearing Knowing the different types of axes helps you choose the right tool for cutting logs, splitting firewood, or even working on a roof. This design minimizes the amount of energy needed to split wood while maximizing the force applied to the wood fibers. But for bigger, harder logs, you’ll need 10-20 tons. The axe has many forms and specialised uses but generally consists of a head with a handle (also called "haft" or "helve"). Jan 11, 2025 · Not all axes are created equal, and selecting the appropriate tool depends heavily on the type of wood you’ll be splitting, the size of the logs, and your personal strength and experience. Splitting wood is a task that requires the right tool for the job. You use a splitting hammer to hit a metal wedge. If you’re felling trees, you’ll need something big, too, and with good cutting (instead of splitting) ability. Splitting wood involves striking the flat, sawed end of a log and separating the fibers of the wood, which will cause the log to split along the grain. Jul 17, 2023 · The Fiskars X27 combines build strength and optimum axe splitting blade geometry to enable single-strike splits across diverse wood types. How hard it is to split wood depends on its hardness, age Jan 7, 2024 · Unlike the felling axe, a splitting axe has a broader, wedge-shaped head that forces the wood apart. Splitting Axe Safety Oct 10, 2024 · For campers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable tool for wood splitting, the LEXIVON Wood Splitting Axe (LX-V36S) stands out with its 36-inch design and Grade-A Carbon Steel construction. The ax also comes with a splitting maul on the other side of the cutting edge. The Gränsfors Splitting Axes come in four sizes: the Splitting Hatchet, the May 13, 2024 · Contents. It can be difficult to use for wood splitting because felling axes are made to be swung sideways. Apr 30, 2025 · A splitting axe is a type of axe that is designed specifically for splitting logs and wood. The splitting maul has a wedge-shaped or conical head. This type of axe comes equipped with a wedge-shaped blade Jan 7, 2024 · Best Axes for Splitting: Cracking the Code. Jun 24, 2024 · Here's a simple comparison to shed light on which might be the right tool for you: Tool Type Pros Cons Good Splitting Axe Lightweight, long leveraged swings, efficient design May struggle with tougher, knotty wood Maul Powerful, thick wedge design, excellent for tough jobs Heavier, can cause fatigue over long periods Picking out the right tool The Achilles heel of a felling axe is wood splitting. A splitting axe is a tool designed to split chunks of firewood into smaller, more manageable pieces. Wedges Oct 7, 2024 · Factors to Consider When Choosing an Axe for Splitting Wood. The beefy, 5. Oct 23, 2024 · 33. However, the aim of both axes is the same—splitting wood. Sep 5, 2024 · A good splitting axe will have a well-designed wedge and bite system that allows it to quickly and easily dig into the wood, making it easier to generate the force needed for splitting. There are three main types of axes: Felling axes, Splitting axes, and Mauls. When looking for the best axe for splitting wood, consider its balance and how easily it cuts through wood fibers. Hatchets. From splitting wood to cutting shingles, axes are versatile tools. The hardened poll, akin to a sledge hammer can be used to pound metal wedges. Their blade is made for cutting across the grain of wood fibers; the head gets stuck when splitting wood which involves chopping along the grain. Maintenance Tips for Your Wood Splitting Axe Effective maintenance is essential for ensuring your wood splitting axe performs at its best. The head of a splitting axe is shaped like a wedge. A maul has a splitting edge on one side and a hardened poll on the other side. Splitting Maul: Heavier and wider-headed than a splitting axe, it’s better for larger, denser logs. For small, soft wood, a 4-10 ton splitter is enough. Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe. Splitting firewood is a chore in itself. Apr 4, 2025 · But that’s not all. Jan 26, 2016 · To find out which is the best axe for splitting wood, we called in five of the most popular models and put them to the test. This option has a broad head that efficiently splits logs into smaller pieces. Felling axe (left), Fiskars splitting axe (middle), 8lb Maul (right) Can a felling axe split wood? Felling axes are primarily designed for felling (chopping down) trees and chopping wood. The maul can also help you split through certain types of wood when a clean cut isn’t an option. " The art of wood splitting, with roots tracing back to our ancestors, is more than just a survival skill. The head of a splitting maul will be much heavier than a felling axe, at around eight pounds. They are larger and heavier than other types of axes to provide more splitting power. A splitting axe or maul serves one purpose – to split wood. 2 – Know the specifics of different types of wood. Best Overall: Gränsfors Bruk Large Splitting Axe. However, a splitting maul is actually slightly different. This makes it ideal for larger logs or tougher wood types. For most users, a large splitting axe will be more than enough to handle your woodpile but I would recommend a medium-sized splitting axe for most Jul 17, 2023 · When it comes to the different types of axes, there is a wide variety to choose from based on specific tasks and needs. The axe design allows for handle replacement, increasing its lifespan and utility. This axe head style allows most splitting axes to graze along the fibers and grain of the wood, creating a smooth May 2, 2020 · Maul – A maul or splitting maul, is a heavy two handed axe used for splitting wood. Oct 9, 2018 · If you’re splitting logs or rounds for wood, you’ll want a bigger axe or even a maul, the biggest types of axes specifically designed to split wood. 5-pound, wedge-shaped head split nearly everything I tried it on, from seasoned hardwoods to damp softwoods. 2. Since this axe can easily tire out the user, it’s only recommended for lumberjacks who may not have the storage space for two different types of axes. Splitting axes tend to be lighter and less blunt than splitting mauls. It is made to deal with heavy-duty jobs. The handle is also grooved towards the end for an extra firm grip. A splitting axe is a heavy, wedge Simply put, the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul ($255) is hands down the best overall axe for almost any wood-splitting task. It’s best to work in a clever way than focus on hitting, smashing, and cursing the hard-to-split wood you are dealing with. Splitting axes are designed for splitting logs into smaller pieces. The Dayton axe is a heavier type of felling axe that adds more power to each chop. To gauge cutting prowess, I bought half a cord of madrone, a Best for: Splitting wood for kindling. Not only is it important to find a high-quality splitting axe, you should also find the right one for Oct 9, 2022 · Here is a list of 7 of the best wood axes for all your needs. As the name implies, splitting axes are efficient at splitting wood. Since 2020, we've spent countless hours testing axes, examining their balance, precision, and ability to hold an edge in real-world conditions. Splitting axes are, as a rule, lighter and less blunt than splitting mauls. This has a long handle with a chunky axe head. 6. 2-pound overall weight allow it to power Jan 27, 2024 · Different types of axes used for splitting wood. But, like any An axe (/ æ k s /; sometimes spelled ax in American English; see spelling differences) is an implement that has been used for thousands of years to shape, split, and cut wood, to harvest timber, and as a weapon. To split wood there are special splitting axes and splitting hammers. Dec 17, 2021 · How heavy should an axe be to split wood? A splitting axe is generally between three to six pounds. Sep 10, 2023 · Unearth the best wood splitting axes for 2023 in our expert-curated guide, featuring standout selections, firsthand user insights, and professional advice for the discerning woodworker. It may surprise you to learn that there are many types of axes, and they’re all used differently. The extra weight helps the Mar 13, 2024 · Ensure that your axe is well-sharpened before starting work, as a sharp blade makes the task much easier and reduces the risk of accidents. Ideal for: Large logs and tough wood; Features: FiberComp handle, perfect weight distribution Oct 4, 2024 · Think of this as a twofer. Don't use a (splitting)axe to hit a metal wedge! This could damage the axe. Cons Oct 29, 2024 · For lighter tasks, a splitting axe will do the trick, but for heavier-duty work, a maul offers more weight and power. Type. While it can’t split larger wood pieces, it’s a perfect hand ax for many and an excellent choice for budget-minded shoppers. When you are pondering about the types of axes for splitting firewood the answer is certain. There are several types of axes specifically designed for this purpose, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Splitting axe heads have more of a wedge shape than felling axes. 5-pound head and 7. Proper maintenance will ensure your axe serves you well for years, making each swing effective and effortless. Whereas many mauls have hardened polls that allow them to be used as hammers, not many splitting axes have this feature and they rely more on the design and power of the bit to Splitting firewood is a task dreaded by many, but with the price of firewood increasing, most people find it worth their time and effort to pick up their splitting axe and make their own. Sep 27, 2024 · Having picked the best axes for splitting wood, the next step is to keep them sharp and ready. Some splitting axes may also feature a specialized wedge or bite system designed specifically for certain types of wood or splitting tasks. These axes, though, are made for the same purpose – splitting wood. Nov 15, 2023 · Types of Axes for Splitting Wood. A splitting axe is sometimes called a splitting maul. It features a heavy head and a long handle, usually measuring around 28 to 36 inches, providing leverage and power during the splitting process. Splitting axe. One side of the head has a wedge-shaped axe the other a sledgehammer. Splitting axes and mauls are perfect for this task. Its 6-1/4-pound head and 31-inch length give it tremendous log-splitting power and put it more in line with a maul. Types of Axes: Splitting Axe: Specifically designed to split logs by driving them apart rather than cutting through them. fits a 26-ton rental unit. Splitting wood requires an axe that can efficiently force the wood apart without getting stuck. Mar 14, 2023 · Made by Hults Bruk, the Husqvarna 30-inch splitting axe comes with centuries of Swedish axe-making experience and craftsmanship. Splitting Axe. Sep 30, 2024 · 10. Oct 5, 2020 · Axes for Splitting Wood Buyer’s Guide. Whatever use the axe is going to be put to, the key is to use Jun 12, 2024 · Similar to a hand axe, a maul is another manual tool used for splitting wood. The axe is designed for wood splitting, with a geometry that allows the edge to penetrate and split wood with minimal effort. This allows the axe to efficiently cleave through a block of wood. A felling axe is designed with the specific purpose of felling trees and chopping wood into logs. About the same size as felling axes, these mauls feature a heavier, chunkier wedge-shaped head with one blunt and one sharp end. It’s a testament to our resourcefulness and adaptability. Sep 1, 2024 · In a pinch, you can also split wood with a hatchet. Whether you’re preparing for winter or tackling a DIY project, understanding the various types of axes can help you choose the best one for your needs. Axe Price Range. The wood will then be used as firewood. A maul typically has a Aug 9, 2023 · A traditional axe offers versatility and precision for smaller logs or softer wood, and a double-bit axe is less commonly used for wood splitting. As such you can easily split wood. A wood-splitting axe is designed to split large pieces of wood into smaller ones – either into logs of a suitable size to fit your stove or fireplace, or to make kindling. Factors Affecting Wood Splitting Difficulty. An ultra-sharp edge on a non-stick five-pound forged steel bit, riveted to a 36-inch non-slip fiberglass handle, delivers robust power. Be sure to wear protective gear when using a maul, as it can be more difficult to control than a hand axe. 1 fiskars x27 super splitting axe; 2. 3 KURUI Wood Splitting Axe and Hatchet Set Nowadays, axes are used primarily as tools and form three main groups: Forest Axes, Splitting Axes and Log-building Axes. The Test. The heavier the head, the more easily gravity will draw the axe through the wood to split it apart. Most home use in the U. Feb 8, 2021 · A felling axe is used to cut trees and chop enormous logs. This heavy, cumbersome axe has a double-sided head with a blunt blade on one side for splitting wood and a sharper blade on the other end for chopping action. Jan 17, 2024 · There are special types of axes for splitting firewood. Mar 25, 2025 · From survival to recreation, a sturdy axe is your trusty sidekick for limbing branches, clearing brush, and splitting up firewood for camp. Chopping Axes. In this guide, we’ll explore the main types of axes used for splitting wood, detailing their features, uses, and advantages. slaiy atpbkwnq voysze jqjmlj cob ahh wpaq ebzazc cihlxod kfub