After foolishly agreeing to have nearly two cords of large pine rounds dumped on our driveway last spring, we spent the summer hauling, drying, splitting, and stacking wood with each of these axes in order to find the best and bring you our recommendations.

　　This particular load of wood put our lineup of splitting axes and our axe-wielding testers through the wringer. We faced freshly cut pine rounds ranging from 14 to over 30 inches in diameter that gave us all the twisty, sappy grain structures and dense, chunky knots we could handle. While we were lucky enough to split some rounds with one or two easy strikes, other more heinous pieces took up to 20 or 30 well-placed blows for the timber to finally relent.

　　We purchased and tested a wide variety of the top splitting axes from around the world, from hand-forged heirloom-quality pieces of Scandinavian descent, to more modern designs with higher-tech materials, to American-made hardware store-style tools. We used each splitting axe over a dozen times to get an advanced impression of each tools build quality, balance and feel, and wood splitting performance.

　　Weve also compiled a list of critical measurements and specifications to help you find the best splitting axe for your personal size, strength, design preferences, and wood splitting needs. Make sure to check out our buyer’s guide and frequently asked questions sections for more specific information, and our comparison chart for key details.

　　Editors Note: Our team refreshed this Guide on May 2, 2024 with the addition of the Helko Werk Traditional Spaltaxt, our pick for the best midsize axe for splitting wood.

　　The Best Axes for Splitting Wood of 2024 Best Overall Axe for Splitting Wood: Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul Best Budget Axe for Splitting Wood: Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe Best Midsize Axe for Splitting Wood: Helko Werk Traditional Spaltaxt Best Axe for Precise Splitting: Husqvarna Composite Splitting Axe S2800 Best Axe for Finishing Tough Logs: Gedore Ochsenkopf Spalt-Fix Axe Best Overall Axe for Splitting Wood Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul Specs Head Weight 5.5 lbs. Total Weight 7.2 lbs. Handle Length 31.5 in. Handle Material Hickory Wood Country of Origin Sweden

　　Pros Well-balanced feel for optimum blend of power and efficiency Hand-forged head has ideal blade shape for splitting wood Handle includes protective steel collar below the head Aesthetically pleasing design Cons Expensive Nick Bruckbauer Simply put, the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul ($255) is hands down the best overall axe for almost any wood-splitting task. Its 5.5-pound head and 7.2-pound overall weight allow it to power through difficult logs and rounds without being too unwieldy, and its perfectly balanced design makes it feel light enough for repeated swings and precise strikes without causing undo fatigue.

　　Its hand-forged steel head has a relatively thin blade that widens to a broader wedge shape, making it efficient for splitting without bouncing off of harder woods or getting too deeply embedded in softer woods. The splitting maul design also has a poll on the opposite side of the blade that can be used for striking a splitting wedge or pounding stakes.

　　The 31.5-inch Hickory wood handle is an ideal length that balances power and control and has an ideal width and added grooves that provide for a comfortable grip for average-sized hands. The handle also includes a protective steel collar below the head that helps protect the handle from accidental damage.

　　While the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul has a higher price tag than most, it is both an effective and versatile tool as well as an heirloom-quality piece of craftsmanship. From the first look to the last swing, it has a premium aesthetic, feel, and performance. Under normal use and with proper care, we could see this axe being passed down to the next generation.

　　The Gransfors Bruk Splitting family also includes a Splitting Hatchet, a Small Splitting Axe, and a Large Splitting Axe. These models have varying weights and lengths but a similar overall design.

　　$284 at Amazon Best Budget Axe for Splitting Wood Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe Specs Head Weight 4.0 lbs. Total Weight 5.7 lbs. Handle Length 36.0 in. Handle Material Composite Country of Origin Finland

　　Pros Long, lightweight handle is easy to swing Composite handle material helps absorb shock Shape of the head and blade are effective for splitting Affordable price tag Cons Longer handle may not be ideal for everyone Lighter weight is less powerful than heavier axes Composite handle cannot be replaced if it breaks (though it is very strong) Nick Bruckbauer With a modern design and materials, a lighter weight, and a lighter price tag, the Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe ($70) is a capable splitting axe that performs well and is more affordable than traditional hand-forged designs. Standout features include the comfortable and lightweight 36-inch composite handle and a unique head shape that is very efficient for splitting. It is also one of the most affordable axes we tested, making it an ideal choice for beginner or budget-conscious wood splitters.

　　The longer handle length and the lighter overall axe weight combine to allow a faster swing speed that splits wood nearly as effectively as heavier axe designs, but with much less strain and fatigue on the body. This also makes it more versatile for users with different body types and strength levels.

　　The unique wedge-shaped head is ideal for splitting; its not too narrow and not too wide, has a reasonable weight, and is easy to remove if it becomes embedded in the wood.

　　Admittedly, the X27s lighter overall axe weight struggled a bit with some extra large rounds but kept up with most splitting tasks. And the longer 36-inch handle length makes the axe a little more challenging to control for precise strikes, but Fiskars also makes a similar 28-inch X25 Splitting Axe and 23.5-inch X17 Splitting Axe.

　　For heavier-duty splitting needs, Fiskars also offers an 8-pound Splitting Maul.

　　$70 at Amazon Best Midsize Axe for Splitting Wood Helko Werk Traditional Spaltaxt Specs Head Weight 4.5 lbs. Total Weight 5.8 lbs. Handle Length 28.0 in. Handle Material Hickory Wood Country of Origin Germany

　　Pros Wedge-shaped head is strong and efficient for splitting Ergonomic handle shape provides great comfort and control Shorter and lighter than bigger axes to reduce fatigue Beautiful design and construction Cons Fairly expensive Not as powerful as longer and heavier splitters Nick Bruckbauer Sometimes you dont want to swing an 8-pound axe or maul all day, but still need a tool with enough oomph to get the job done. The Helko Werk Traditional Spaltaxt ($180) fills a nice void for moderate-duty splitting projects where comfort and efficiency are prioritized over top-end power.

　　The 28-inch Hickory handle is an ideal length to optimize control and precision, and the slight curve and an end knob provide exceptional comfort and a balanced feel. The 4.5-pound head is a bit lighter than other full-size splitters like the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul, but still has enough bulk to power through most logs. The head is beautifully hand-forged and has a double wedge shape to improve splitting power without getting embedded into the wood.

　　Out of all the different axes in our quiver that we put to the test, this one became our primary tool for all but the heaviest splitting tasks. The efficient head shape, comfortable handle, and manageable size and weight gave us more confidence and less fatigue for everyday splitting jobs. Larger and stronger foresters might find this axe a little on the smaller side, but our main tester (5-11 and 175 pounds) found this to be perfect.

　　The Helko Werk Traditional Spaltaxt is a strong and efficient tool as well as a beautiful work of art with its hand-forged head and American Hickory handle, and is our favorite overall midsize axe.

　　$193 at Amazon Best Axe for Precise Splitting Husqvarna Composite Splitting Axe S2800 Specs Head Weight 5.0 lbs. Total Weight 6.2 lbs. Handle Length 28.0 in. Handle Material Composite Country of Origin Sweden

　　Pros Shorter handle provides more control for precise strikes Longer blade edge is effective for splitting smaller logs Comfortable weight and size for different people Includes protective collar below head Reasonable price Cons Shorter length and lighter weight are not as effective for splitting extra large rounds Longer, narrower blade edge can get stuck easier in larger logs or rounds Nick Bruckbauer The Husqvarna Composite Splitting Axe S2800 ($100) has an interesting modern design that quickly became our go-to tool for most medium and lighter-duty splitting tasks. Once we split larger wood rounds into halves or quarters with any other axe, we would grab the Husqvarna to finish off the pieces into smaller firewood logs.

　　The 28-inch composite handle is both lightweight and comfortable to handle, and the flared end provides excellent control for confident, well-placed strikes. Most of the axes weight is concentrated in the head, providing excellent balance and splitting power. The longer blade edge makes it easier to accurately split smaller logs without worrying about an overstrike or a mis-hit. And the opposite from the blade has a hammer-shaped head for pounding tasks (the manufacturer states not to strike steel splitting wedges with it).

　　The Husqvarnas only weaknesses are that its a little undersized for extra large rounds, and the longer and thinner blade edge tends to get more easily embedded in softer wood than thicker, wedge-shaped blades.

　　Overall, the effortless power, control, and confidence make the Composite Splitting Axe S2800 a great and reasonably priced option.

　　$92 at Amazon Best Axe for Finishing Tough Logs Gedore Ochsenkopf Spalt-Fix Axe Specs Head Weight 5.5 lbs. Total Weight 8.2 lbs. Handle Length 31.5 in. Handle Material Hickory Wood Country of Origin Germany

　　Pros Heavy, wedge-shaped head powers through tough logs or rounds Rotband-Plus head-to-handle connection system is strong and secure Includes protective sleeve on handle below head Comfortable handle shape Cons Heavier overall weight may be harder to control for some users Narrow blade edge can get stuck in softer or extra large rounds Nick Bruckbauer With the heaviest overall weight of any axe that we tested, the Gedore Ochsenkopf Spalt-Fix Axe ($130) was lovingly nicknamed The Finisher during our testing period. German for ox head, the Ochsenkopf powered through tough, twisty, knotty pieces of pine that other splitting axes struggled with.

　　The Ochsenkopf family of axes has several similar models with slightly different head shapes, weights, and specs. The Spalt-Fix Axe that we tested has a 2,500g (5.5-pound) head weight and an 80cm (31.5-inch) handle length. On paper, these specs are pretty similar to those of a few other axes we tested, but the main performance difference comes from the shape of the head and the handle.

　　The head has a distinct wedge-shaped design with a massive back end and a fairly thin blade edge. This combination helps cut through tough, knotty pieces of wood, and then the heft and power of the wedge helps push the wood apart.

　　The handle has a normal comfortable width where you grip it with a slight flare at the end, and then has a huge width increase near the head. This unique shape helps keep it manageable to control the axe while concentrating the majority of the mass near the splitting head.

　　The handle and head are held together by a unique Rotband-Plus connection system that is confidence-inspiring and aesthetically pleasing. For those who like the idea of this axe but might be intimidated by the size and heft, Ochsenkopf makes the same model with a lighter 1,250g (2.75-pound) head and a slightly shorter 70cm (27.5-inch) handle.

　　Check Price at Amazon Best of the Rest Helko Werk Classic Nordic Splitting Axe Specs Head Weight 5.5 lbs. Total Weight 7.2 lbs. Handle Length 31.0 in. Handle Material Hickory Wood Country of Origin Germany

　　Pros Beautiful aesthetics with polished steel head Traditional Swedish wedge-style head is effective for splitting Heavier weight helps power through logs Cons Feels heavier than the specs indicate Larger handle girth is harder to control for smaller or average-sized hands Fairly pricey Nick Bruckbauer The Helko Werk Classic Nordic Splitting Axe ($190) is one of the most beautiful axes weve seen, held, and swung, with its polished steel head and simple Hickory wood handle. Helko Werk is a German company, but this axe has a distinct Scandinavian flair with its traditional Swedish wedge-style head shape.

　　This axe is heavy enough to power through most large rounds and logs, and the blade shape is optimized for splitting without bouncing off or getting stuck inside the wood. It has an ideal overall weight and handle length for most splitting duties.

　　Our only complaint is that the handle width is a little wider than wed prefer. Our lead tester has pretty average-sized hands (he is 5 feet, 11 inches tall, weighs 175 pounds, and wears size Medium gloves) and felt like this axe was oddly difficult to control, and it even slipped out of his hands a few times. The overall weight isnt an issue since its equivalent to several other axes we tested, including our top overall pick Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul, but the two have noticeably different handle widths.

　　Having said all that, the Classic Nordic Splitting Axe is a beautifully crafted piece and a very capable tool but might be best reserved for strong users with larger hands.

　　$198 at Amazon Hultafors Hult Splitting Axe Specs Head Weight 3.3 lbs. Total Weight 4.5 lbs. Handle Length 30.0 in. Handle Material Hickory Wood Country of Origin Sweden

　　Pros Beautiful hand-forged head Lightweight design allows fast swing velocity Company legacy goes back to 1697 Cons Lighter head and narrower blade struggle with large logs or rounds Shorter blade edge can lead to overstrikes Somewhat expensive Nick Bruckbauer The Hultafors Hult Splitting Axe ($200) is another classic Swedish design with a company legacy dating all the way back to 1697. Holding this beautiful, rustic tool feels like youre taking a step back in time, and the well-balanced feel has high-end elegance to it.

　　With only a 3.3-pound head and a 4.5-pound overall weight, the Hult is one of the lightest splitting axes we tested. This allows it to be comfortably swung and controlled with a fast and efficient swing velocity, but it doesnt quite have the heft to break up larger rounds and logs. It struggled a bit on anything over 15 inches or so in diameter, easily getting stuck in the wood on hard and fast swings into larger log pieces.

　　We did use the Hult Splitting Axe quite a bit for breaking up halves and quarters into smaller pieces of firewood. It does a great job at this, saving precious energy with its lighter weight. However, when trying to get one last split on several wide logs with a narrow depth, we found ourselves missing the mark a number of times due to the short blade edge length.

　　This led to a handful of overstrikes and a small chip on the handle near the head. This issue can be mitigated with an added protective sleeve along the upper handle, but in situations like this where accuracy was key, we often found ourselves reaching for the longer blade edge length of the Husqvarna S2800.

　　The same axe maker also manufactures tools under the Hults Bruk label, which is more widely available in the United States.

　　Check Price at Amazon Council Tool 6-lb Sledge-Eye Maul Specs Head Weight 6.0 lbs. Total Weight 7.3 lbs. Handle Length 36.0 in. Handle Material Hickory Wood Country of Origin USA

　　Pros Large, heavy head helps power through tough logs Affordable price Cons Narrow, straight handle is not as ergonomic as other designs Doesnt feel as well-balanced or refined as other models Heavier weight is can be harder to control during extended splitting sessions Nick Bruckbauer The Council Tool 6-pound Sledge-Eye Maul ($59) has a classic American design that you might see in your local hardware store. Its simple, effective, and affordably priced. The burley 6-pound head is attached to a long and straight Hickory wood handle, creating a hefty tool that uses brute force to get the job done.

　　The Council Tool Maul excels with its overall bulk, but is a little less refined than other models. The handle width is a little thinner than wed like, and the head — while big and strong — doesnt feel as dense as some of the European models. On some wood strikes, it had an awkward higher-pitched ting to it rather than a strong crack or thud sound. Its length and size are also a bit unwieldy compared to some more compact or well-balanced designs.

　　This Maul comes in two similar designs — the Sledge Eye model that we tested with a narrower, rounder handle and eye through the axe head — and an Axe Eye model with a slight curve in the handle to a more oval-shaped eye through the axe head. There is also an 8-pound Axe Eye model available.

　　$60 at Amazon Estwing Fireside Friend Splitting Tool Specs Head Weight 4.0 lbs. Total Weight 4.1 lbs. Handle Length 14.0 in. Handle Material Steel Country of Origin USA

　　Pros Wedged head shape is effective for splitting smaller logs Doubles as a handheld sledge hammer Comfortable handle grip Cons Heavy head with short handle feels awkward for splitting Still requires a full swing to be effective Short handle puts user closer to impact zone Nick Bruckbauer The Estwing Fireside Friend Splitting Tool ($35) is a unique take on a splitting axe with a handheld design. It is essentially a 4-pound handheld sledgehammer with a wedge-shaped splitting blade on the other end of the head. This forged steel tool has an all-in-one construction where the head and the handle are made from one continuous piece of metal, with a comfortable rubberized hand grip.

　　The Fireside friend works well for trimming down already-split firewood logs into smaller pieces of kindling. At 4 pounds and with a large, bulky head, it doesnt have the precision of a hatchet, since you need to take care to make precise splits, especially if youre holding the piece of wood youre splitting with your opposite hand. The short handle length also puts the user closer to the impact zone, so be sure to wear eye protection when using it.

　　Overall, the Fireside Friend is a useful and convenient splitting tool for trimming down smaller logs and could be a good addition to your tool shed.

　　$35 at Amazon Best Splitting Axes Comparison Chart

　　We tested a wide variety of splitting axes with different shapes and sizes, to help you find the best axe for your needs. (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) How We Tested the Best Axes for Splitting Wood We tested the best axes for splitting wood in the most sensible way possible: by buying a variety of axes and splitting a lot of wood! We started by researching the best axes on the market created by some of the most legendary steel forgers on the planet. We eventually narrowed our list down to nince models that we purchased and put to a side-by-side test.

　　After finally melting out from Lake Tahoes snowiest season on record in 2022-2023, lead tester Nick Bruckbauer had nearly two cords of freshly cut pine rounds delivered to his home. After moving and stacking them and preparing a work area, he got to work over the next several months, alternating among the nine different axes to split the stack of rounds into huge piles of firewood. The following fall, a next-door neighbor felled a 48-inch diameter pine, and Nick accepted an additional couple dozen rounds for further splitting and testing.

　　Before getting to work, we thoroughly examined each axe to get a sense of its craftsmanship and the quality of its materials. We inspected everything from head size and shape, to blade sharpness, to handle length, shape, and materials. We tested the quality and ease of use of the included sheaths, and read any documentation about the axe makers history.

　　Theres only one way to determine the true quality of an axe, and thats to swing it and swing it hard! We ended up splitting over 100 pine rounds that ranged in diameter from approximately 14 to 30 inches, as well as some half rounds that were over 40 inches in diameter. The final yield was just shy of 2 cords of wood, all split by hand.

　　The only way to truly gauge a tools performance is to repeatedly put it to the test. We hand-split nearly two cords of wood during our testing period; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) While pine is definitely a softer wood, it can be notoriously challenging to split, with some rounds having long, twisty grains, plenty of sap, and lots of knots that can stop even the toughest axe in its tracks. This load of wood was the perfect testing ground to find the best axe for splitting wood. We ran into some difficult pieces that took extra effort to split, and it helped us identify the highest-performing axes to handle the toughest situations.

　　Nick Bruckbauer is a year-round Lake Tahoe resident, lifelong gear nerd, and proud DIYer who enjoys the satisfaction of completing hard and meaningful labor to help provide resources for his family. With continually rising fuel prices, regular winter power outages, and an ongoing supply of free, locally harvested logs, Nick welcomes the effort of hand-splitting this wood to help supplement his familys home heating in a rustic and natural way.

　　Lead tester Nick Bruckbauer enjoys the satisfaction of working hard to provide resources for his family. (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Axe for Splitting Wood The best axe for splitting wood will generally depend on a few variables, including your body size and strength, your preferred handle length and material, and the size and type of wood that youre splitting. From there, well provide some universal design recommendations to look for based on our first-hand testing experience.

　　Types of Axes There are a variety of axe designs, and not all of them are ideal for splitting wood. There are shorter handheld designs with thin, sharp blades that are ideal for trimming and cutting smaller pieces of wood, and there are larger sledgehammer styles with broader wedge-shaped blades that are ideal for splitting larger chunks of wood.

　　Hatchets Hatchets are the smallest type of axe, and will typically weigh between 1 and 2.5 pounds and have handles that are approximately 12 to 18 inches long. They are a versatile tool for camping or around the house, as they can be used both for cutting smaller branches (up to a few inches in diameter) and for splitting smaller logs (up to approximately 8 or 10 inches in diameter). Hatchets will typically have sharper blades that allow for precise cutting or trimming work, which makes them less versatile for splitting larger logs, since the narrower blade will have a tendency to get embedded in the wood.

　　The advantage of hatchets is that they are usually pretty lightweight, can be carried with you while hiking or camping, and provide excellent versatility for a variety of tasks. While they provide plenty of utility, we did not include them in this review because they are too small and light for heavy-duty splitting work. If youre more interested in a hatchet than a splitting axe, check out our Buyers Guide of the Best Camping Hatchets.

　　Cutting Axes The next step up from a hatchet is a cutting axe. Sometimes referred to as a forester axe or a woodworker axe, these tools will often look similar to a hatchet, just bigger. They will typically weigh between 3 and 5.5 pounds and have handles that are approximately 20 to 30 inches long.

　　Cutting axes have a sharp, narrow blade with a long cutting edge, and are designed to cut against the grain of the wood for tasks such as trimming branches or felling trees. While some designs will have some versatility to also split wood, they are usually a poor choice for splitting wood, since the long, sharp blade will easily become embedded in the wood. Because of this, we did not include any cutting axes in this review. Cutting axes will also typically have curved, ergonomic handle shapes for leverage and control during repeated cutting tasks.

　　Splitting axes have a broader, wedge-shaped head that is designed to push wood apart along the grain, rather than cutting into it against the grain; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Splitting Axes Splitting axes, sometimes interchangeably referred to as splitting mauls (more on that below), are specifically designed for splitting wood — or pushing it apart along the grain — rather than cutting against the grain. As such, splitting axes and mauls will typically be heavier, weighing anywhere from 3.5 to 8 pounds, and have a longer handle that is 28 to 36 inches long. They will also have broader, wedge-shaped heads that dont need to be as sharp as cutting axes.

　　The ideal splitting axe will have a blade that is able to penetrate into the wood and push it apart without getting completely embedded and an overall weight and length that are comfortable for the user. The most effective splitting axes will typically be a bit heavier, providing the heft to help the axe power through tough pieces of wood. However, heavier isnt always better, as a lighter axe is easier to control, easier to swing at a faster speed, and will generally cause less fatigue throughout a splitting session.

　　Splitting Axes vs. Splitting Mauls The terms splitting axe and splitting maul sometimes get used interchangeably, so you might be wondering what the difference is, if there even is a difference. Many people often refer to any large, heavy splitting axe as a maul, but thats not necessarily the case.

　　The key differentiator is that the head of a splitting maul can also be used as a sledgehammer for pounding stakes or striking poles. The head of a splitting maul will have the splitting blade edge on one end, and a hammer-shaped face on the other end. Unless a tool is specifically designated as a maul, it should not be used for any purpose other than splitting wood.

　　Though its not always the case, splitting mauls also tend to be bigger and heavier than splitting axes. Splitting axes generally are 20 to 30 inches long and weigh anywhere from 3.5 to 6 pounds, while splitting mauls are generally 30 to 36 inches long and weigh 6 to 8+ pounds. Both will have wider, wedge-shaped blades designed to push wood apart along the grain, rather than cutting wood against the grain.

　　The head of the Council Tool 6-lb Sledge Eye Maul is formed into the shape of a hammerhead, and is designed to be used as a sledgehammer to drive stakes or strike poles or wedges; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) In our test lineup, three products are classified as mauls, the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul, the Council Tool 6-lb Sledge-Eye Maul, and the Estwing Fireside Friend Splitting Tool.

　　The Estwing Fireside Friend is a 4-pound handheld splitting tool and sledgehammer; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Head Weight and Overall Weight While an axes head weight and overall weight will have a big impact on its performance, this metric also comes down quite a bit to personal preference. A heavier axe might be better suited for larger users with bigger and stronger hands, while a lighter axe may be better suited for smaller users or those with smaller hands. Both heavier and lighter axes can get the job done with the right technique and effort.

　　Heres where it gets more interesting. For any physics enthusiasts out there, remember that force = mass x acceleration. This means that when a heavier axe provides a certain amount of force at a certain swing speed, a lighter axe will be able to match that same amount of force — it will just require a faster swing speed. Of course, this is a fairly broad generalization, but this is where personal preference becomes important. Its important to find an axe size and weight that matches your body type and your swing speed preferences.

　　A heavier axe will generally be more difficult to swing and will likely cause increased fatigue over repeated swinging, but will also provide more splitting force at a lower overall swing speed. A lighter axe will be easier to swing and will likely cause less fatigue over repeated swinging, but will generally provide less splitting force than a heavier axe (assuming the same swing speed). A lighter axe will be easier to swing faster, and will also be easier to control for more precise swings.

　　Our lead tester Nick Bruckbauer is 511 tall, weighs 175 pounds, and has average-sized hands (mens Medium glove size). He strongly prefers the size and weight of the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul. With a 5.5-pound head weight and 7.2-pound overall weight, this tool feels just right for most splitting tasks.

　　It has enough mass to power its way through thicker or tougher rounds but is just light enough (compared to 7.5 to 8-pound models) that its manageable to maintain control and a reasonable swing speed. It also feels nicely balanced so that fast, hard swings feel efficient and dont cause undue fatigue.

　　With a 5.5-pound head and a 7.2-pound overall weight, the Gransfor Bruk Splitting Maul has an ideal weight with a well-balanced feel; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Head Size and Shape The head size and shape are two of the primary design features that separate a splitting axe from a cutting axe (and a splitting axe from a splitting maul). While most splitting axes have a broader wedge-shaped head than most cutting axes, there is still a variety of shapes and sizes even among our test lineup of splitting axes.

　　On the narrower end, the Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800 has a longer blade edge and a narrower blade width than most other splitting axes. This made it our go-to choice for splitting smaller rounds, or larger rounds once theyve been split in halves or quarters. The long blade edge gave us the confidence to strike the wood precisely where we wanted, and the narrow blade allowed it to power through smaller pieces of wood pretty easily. It did struggle a little with larger rounds, as the narrower blade had a tendency to get embedded in the wood.

　　On the broader end, the Gedore Ochsenkopf Spalt-Fix Axe has a heavy, large, wedge-shaped head. What this design lacks in finesse, it makes up for in brute force. The Ochsenkopf is our favorite axe for finishing off difficult logs or rounds. Its massive head powered through thick, knotty chunks that other axes struggled with.

　　The lineup of splitting axes we tested has a wide range of head sizes and shapes. Going from thinner to thicker profiles (left to right): Hultafors Hult, Husqvarna S2800, Fiskars X27, Helko Werk Nordic, Council Tool, Gransfors Bruk Maul, and Ochsenkopf; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) The Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul has the ideal head size and shape for splitting wood. It has a large, massive head that quickly narrows to a concave shape and a fairly narrow blade edge. This design allows the narrow blade to penetrate difficult pieces of wood, but then the concave shape helps prevent it from becoming embedded. Finally, the large, heavy head helps power through and finish pushing the wood apart.

　　The Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe also has a nice head shape thats not too thick and not too thin, making it an efficient splitter that doesnt get embedded in the wood too easily. Were a big fan of the Fiskars, though its lighter overall weight made it a little less effective splitting larger rounds, compared to some heavier designs.

　　The Fiskars X27 has a narrower wedge-shaped head that is not too thick and not too thin. It does a great job penetrating wood without getting stuck too easily; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Finally, the Helko Werk Classic Nordic Splitting Axe and the Hultafors Hult Splitting Axe have unique Scandinavian wedge-shaped head designs. This distinctive shape has a long, rectangular shaped head that gradually narrows to a three-dimensional wedge-shaped blade. This design is very efficient for splitting wood but is a little less versatile than other designs due to the shorter blade edge length that makes precise strikes a little more challenging.

　　The Helko Werk Traditional Nordic Splitting Axe has a long wedge-shaped head with a shorter blade edge, and a long, straight wooden handle; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Handle Length The handle length will typically come down to your height and your personal preferences.

　　A longer handle will allow you to stand further away from the wood (which could add a small element of safety) and could allow you to comfortably split wood that is on the ground rather than elevated on a chopping block. A longer handle also provides more leverage that can increase your swing speed, but can also make the axe a little more difficult to control for precise strikes.

　　A shorter handle will force you to stand closer to the wood, and will likely require elevating the wood on a chopping block to keep you in a comfortable body position. A shorter handle wont generate as much swing speed as a longer handle, but will typically be easier to control for more precise work.

　　The splitting axes that we tested range in length from 28 inches to 36 inches; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Our 511 lead tester found the 31.5-inch length of the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul to be ideal. Shorter lengths between 28 and 30 inches also felt more comfortable than the longer 36-inch lengths, but again, this can be dictated by personal preferences.

　　Handle Material Splitting axe handles are made from composite materials or from wood materials, typically American Hickory.

　　American Hickory Wood is the traditional axe handle material because it is a heavy and dense wood and has a straight grain pattern. Both of these features help make Hickory strong and shock-resistant, both critical features for a high-impact tool. The advantages to wood handles are that they can be replaced if they crack or split, and the handle can be trimmed or sanded to be reshaped by the user. The disadvantages to wood handles are that they are often heavier than composite materials, and they can split or crack if used improperly.

　　The Helko Werk Traditional Nordic Splitting Axe (lower) and the Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul (upper) both have hefty American Hickory Wood handles; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Composite materials are generally lighter than wood and still have good impact resistance. Composite handles cannot be replaced if they break, but they are typically very strong, so this is not a huge concern.

　　The choice between wood or composite materials really comes down to personal preference, as handle materials wont have much, if any, impact on the overall splitting performance. Wood handles look and feel more traditional, while composite handles look and feel more modern.

　　Were definitely big fans of the classic look of a traditional splitting axe with a wood handle and a hand-forged steel head, but we also really liked the feel and performance of the Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe and the Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800, both more modern designs with composite handles.

　　The composite handles on the Husqvarna S2800 (front) and Fiskars X27 (rear) are lightweight and comfortable to handle; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Recommended Safety Equipment Swinging around a heavy, sharp, steel tool can obviously be dangerous, so we also want to include some recommended safety equipment and some safety considerations.

　　The first, and most critical piece of safety equipment is eye protection. This should be non-negotiable. Splitting wood will inevitably send shards of wood flying in every direction, and youre putting your face pretty close to the impact zone and line of fire. We used a simple pair of DeWalt safety glasses that did the trick.

　　We highly recommend wearing safety glasses and a comfortable pair of work gloves; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Next, we also highly recommend a good pair of work gloves. Splitting wood includes hauling and moving wood rounds and split logs, and repeatedly grabbing and swinging an axe over and over. Work gloves will help protect you from simple nuisances like blisters, and from more severe injuries like cuts or scrapes. We used and enjoyed the Giver Lightweight Gloves throughout our whole testing period. These leather gloves fit well, are not too thick and not too thin, and come at a reasonable price.

　　If youre doing repeated splitting, we also recommend a good pair of steel-toed work boots. While this isnt necessarily mandatory, keep in mind that youll likely be moving heavy wood rounds and logs that can weigh 60-80 pounds or more, and pinching your piggies under one of those wont feel so good. Proper foot protection can also protect you from an errant swing of an axe.

　　This may sound silly, but when youre fatigued, and when youre splitting some gnarly, knotty wood, an axe can easily bounce off the wood into into your feet or body. We have a small slice in our steel-toed boots to prove it.

　　A good pair of steel-toed work boots will protect your feet from falling logs, flying debris, or errant axe swings; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer) Finally, we recommend taking a little extra time to make sure you prepare your work area. This means having a flat, level open surface away from houses, cars, trees, or other equipment, with plenty of space to freely swing your axe. Youll also make sure you have plenty of space to stage your pre-split wood and to pile or stack your split logs. Your work area can clutter up quickly, and its important to maintain a clear work area.

　　Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between a splitting axe and a cutting axe? Many splitting axes and cutting axes may look similar at first, but their designs and performance features have distinct differences. A splitting axe is designed to split wood by pushing it apart along the grain, while a cutting axe is designed to cut wood by slicing into it against the grain.

　　A splitting axe will typically be heavier than a cutting axe, and will have a broader, wedge-shaped head with a shorter blade edge. A cutting axe will typically have a thinner head with a longer cutting edge and a much sharper blade.

　　What is the difference between a splitting axe and a splitting maul? Most splitting axes and splitting mauls look and perform similarly, but the main difference is that the head of a splitting maul has a hammer-shaped face on the opposite end of the blade, and can be used as a sledgehammer to drive stakes, pound poles, or strike a splitting wedge. Splitting axes without this hammer-shaped face should not be used to strike anything besides splitting wood. Splitting mauls will generally also be bigger and heavier than splitting axes, but that isnt always the case.

　　Is a wooden handle or a composite handle better? Composite axe handles look and feel a little different than wooden handles, and are typically lighter than wooden handles, but the overall performance between the two is mostly similar. The choice comes down to personal preference.

　　Wooden handles are typically made from American Hickory Wood, which is known for its straight grain pattern and impact-resistant qualities. A wooden axe has a more traditional look and feel, and allows the user to replace the handle if needed, or reshape it to their exact liking. Composite handles are typically lighter weight, and similarly impact-resistant, but cannot be replaced if they were to break. Composite handles also have a more modern, high-tech aesthetic.

　　Is a heavier splitting axe better? A heavier splitting axe isnt necessarily better than a lighter one. There are advantages and disadvantages to each design, and a lot of the decision comes down to user size and personal preference. A heavier axe will provide a relatively greater splitting force to the wood, but the heavier weight will make it more difficult to swing and control than a lighter axe.

　　A lighter axe will provide a relatively lesser splitting force to the wood but can be swung at a faster speed and with more control and precision. Bigger and stronger individuals with larger hands will feel more in control of a heavier axe, while smaller individuals may have an easier time swinging a lighter axe.

　　Our forest-dwelling, lumberjack-at-heart testers put eight tools to a head-to-head test to help you find the best axe for splitting wood.

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