Paul had supernatural strength and carved out the Grand Canyon with his mighty axe, according to American folklore.
Axes have become much more mainstream these days and are no longer just for lumberjacks or serious outdoors enthusiasts.
BEST CHOICE
Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe
Best Axes for Splitting Wood in Our Rating
- Reliable blade, does not rust and does not crumble
- Withstands the strongest blows
- Robust grip for durable grip
- Lightweight material
Selecting the Best Axes for Splitting Wood in January, 2021
Product | Dimensions | Weight | Brand | |
---|---|---|---|---|
(Editor’s Choice) Gransfors Bruks ![]() | 20.3 x 8.8 x 1.8 inches | 10 pounds | Gransfors Bruks | Check Price |
Husqvarna 30"![]() | 30 x 8.7 x 2 inches | 3.5 pounds | Husqvarna | Check Price |
(Editor’s Choice) Helko Werk Vario ![]() | 35.4 x 7 x 2.2 inches | 6.7 pounds | 1844 Helko Werk Germany | Check Price |
Husqvarna 19"![]() | 20 x 7.2 x 1.6 inches | 2.2 pounds | Husqvarna | Check Price |
Fiskars Iso Core 8 lb![]() | 3.2 x 7.8 x 36 inches | 10.4 pounds | Fiskars | Check Price |
Gerber 36-Inch![]() | 2 x 9.5 x 36 inches | 5.4 pounds | Gerber | Check Price |
Estwing Fireside Friend![]() | 14.2 x 5.8 x 1.5 inches | 7 pounds | Estwing | Check Price |
Estwing Camper's![]() | 26 x 1.4 x 7 inches | 6.4 pounds | Estwing | Check Price |
Truper 30958![]() | 2.5 x 8.5 x 36 inches | 9.85 pounds | Truper | Check Price |
Fiskars Super Splitting![]() | 1 x 1 x 1 inches | 5.85 pounds | Fiskars | Check Price |
1. Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe : Best Smaller-Sized Axe for Soft Woods
Our testing team was able to use the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe to splitter smaller ranches and limb wood with no issues whatsoever.
The Small Forest Axe’s head is entirely created from recycled steel.
- 19 inches in length
- Hickory handle
- Recycled steel-crafted head
- Perfect for softer timber including pine, birch, or beech for example
- It won’t stand up to harder, larger pieces of wood
2. Husqvarna 30-Inch Wooden Splitting Axe : Best for Splitting Logs from Hardwood Trees
Our testing team loved using this axe due to its ability to sink the head of the axe easily into the wood, requiring only minimal effort to split wood into two pieces.
This offering from Husqvarna has an extra-long handle, which allows you to use a two-handed grip and exert a larger amount of force with less effort.
- Terrific for thicker, harder pieces of wood
- 30-inch handle made from Hickory
- Head is forged by hand
- Double attaching process provides strength and durability
- The head of this model tends to dull pretty quickly and can break if not used correctly
3. Helko Werk Vario 2000 Heavy Log Splitter : Best for Individuals with Previous Wood Axe Chopping Experience
The sheer size of this option from German axe makers Helko Werk requires that its user exercise a higher level of controlled strength as opposed to smaller axes marketed towards wood chopping beginners.
The head of the Vario 2000 is created using German C50 high-grade carbon steel.
- 36-inch handle
- 4Includes protective oil and a vegetable tanned leather sheath8-inch blade
- Heavy-duty choice for tough jobs
- Beautiful axe
- Not as good of an option for beginners as you will need to combine strength and fluidity of movements while wielding a hefty axe
4. Husqvarna 19-Inch Wooden Splitting Axe : Best for Use with Lighter Firewood
This axe helps you to split through wood easily and is small enough to be comfortably held in one hand.
The Husqvarna Small Splitting Axe weighs just 3 pounds making it a lovely option for individuals concerned about upper body strength.
- 19-inch long handle
- Extremely durable
- Unbelievably light at just 3 pounds
- Includes leather edge cover
- This option will not stand up to very large or hard pieces of wood
5. Fiskars Iso Core Eight Pound Maul : Best Heavy-Duty Wood Splitting Maul
Our testing team was astounded at the brute force afforded through the use of this axe.
The Fiskars Iso Core Eight Pound Maul features a patented IsoCore Shock System which works to absorb shocks from strikes as well as vibration.
- 36-inch handle
- Heavy-duty option
- Perfect for tackling the toughest wood splitting jobs
- Rust resistant coating
- At ten pounds this is a very heavy tool and may be difficult to use
6. Gerber 36-Inch Power Splitting Axe : Best for Preventing Hand Strain
The handle absorbs shock and vibration, keeping your hands from straining or cramping up.
At 36 inches, it is a heavy-duty choice, but since it weighs less than similar versions, you will not tire as quickly.
- Extremely heavy-duty and durable
- Reduces hand straining
- PTFE coated blade for clean cuts
- 8 pounds
- You will need to purchase a sheath to protect the blade separately
7. Estwing Fireside Friend Axe : Best All Around Wood Chopping Axe Choice
Our testing team absolutely loved using the Estwing Fireside Friend Axe to provide firewood for chilly, winter nights or to use while camping or participating in survivalist activities.
The Estwing Fireside Friend Axe features a shock reduction grip. This specification offers a trusty handhold while also reducing impact vibration up to seventy percent.
- Shock-absorbing 14-inch handle
- Forged into one piece for safety and durability
- Made of construction grade steel
- Great for newbies or seasoned pros
- You will need to purchase a sheath to protect your new axe since it does not include one
8. Estwing Camper’s Axe : Best Budget Pick
This option is a lovely choice for chopping logs, cutting down small trees, or splitting wood and kindling for fires.
The Estwing Camper’s Axe features a genuine leather hand grip. The grip has been hand-sanded and lacquered to maximize both comfort and durability.
- Handle is comfortable and absorbs shocks easily
- Forged into one piece to maximize durability and safety
- Perfect for logs, firewood, or cutting smaller trees
- Easy to use whether you’re a newbie or extremely comfortable with axes
- This axe is somewhat heavy, which may be a deal-breaker for some folks
9. Truper 30958 8-Pound Splitting Maul : Best Fiberglass Handled Option
There is a rubber grip on the handle that provides less straining or pain when compared to other axes.
This offering from Truper features a rubber protected overstrike to prevent accidents. The head has a beveled-edge striking face to produce clean, easier cuts.
- Weighs 8 pounds
- 36 inches long
- Double injected fiberglass handle
- Rubber grip lessens strain on hands
- If you prefer wood handles this is not the axe for you, but if you don’t mind the fiberglass it is an excellent purchase
10. Fiskars x27 Super Splitting Axe: Best Wood Splitting Axe for Taller Individuals
The handle measures in at 36 inches and the axe weighs a mere 5.85 pounds.
The Fiskars x27 Super Splitting Axe has been designed for maximized efficiency which will allow you to complete more one-strike passes to split the wood.
- Perfect for tall people
- Heavy-duty choice for medium to large logs
- Cuts and releases from wood easily
- Weighs less than many similar choices
- Our shorter team members had a bit of trouble handling this axe
Best Axes for Splitting Wood – Buyer’s Guide
Now that the weather outside is frightful, using an axe to split wood for a fire sure sounds delightful. Wood splitting axes are a wonderful investment for chopping firewood and kindling to keep you warm during cold, snowy nights. They can also be extremely helpful during a camping trip.
There are thousands of wood splitting axes currently on the market. Finding the best one for your needs may seem like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Not to worry! In addition to reviewing the top ten wood splitting axes, we created this buyer’s guide to explain the important details needed for an informed purchase.
Do I really Need a Wood Splitting Axe?
Axes have been around for centuries. As technology has advanced, new ways of chopping firewood have become more popular. We may be old-fashioned, but the idea of using a fuel-powered wood splitter just doesn’t provide the same sense of accomplishment and the awesome results of doing it yourself with an axe.
An axe is also a very versatile tool. They are perfect to take along on camping trips to ensure you have the proper kindling to keep warm by the fire or to clear your way through the forest. It is also helpful to stash one in your vehicle’s emergency kit, just in case.
As energy and heating costs continue to skyrocket, finding other ways to stay toasty warm has become an important practice. Using a wood stove or fireplace can alleviate some costs while still warming your home and family. After the initial investment cost to buy an axe, there are no other costs to continue to use them or maintain the axe to keep it in tip-top shape. You will save money in multiple ways, which is a definite plus.
Key Considerations When Purchasing a New Wood Splitting Axe
Let’s take a closer look at the crucial points to ponder when shopping for a new axe to split wood.
Job Type
Thinking about the types of jobs you will be using your new axe for is a great place to start. What type or types of wood will you be you will be working with. For larger pieces of wood, you should select a larger axe which is also necessary for harder varieties of wood. A smaller axe works well for smaller or softer woods. Bigger is not always better when it comes to axes, though, as the larger they are, the harder they become to handle and use.
The Axe’s Head Weight
The weight of your new axe’s head has a huge effect on performance. Heavier heads will require more energy to hold and raise. The heavier heads will also give you a higher output. A lighter axe head will be much easier to use and swing, allowing you to work for longer periods of time.
If this will be your first wood splitting axe, try to select a version that weighs no more than 5 pounds. The heftier models provide you with a greater level of force, but your swing’s accuracy will be decreased. If you are just starting out, selecting a lighter axe and then working up to a heavier version as you get stronger and more acclimated to wielding an axe.
Axe Handle Materials
Your new axe’s handle may be crafted from a variety of materials. The most common materials used include steel, wood, or fiberglass. Manufacturers often seal the handle with lacquer for aesthetical purposes, but this can make it difficult to get a good grip. You can sand the varnish off easily to increase the comfort and grip action if needed.
You might find handles made from plastic as well. While they will be lighter and less expensive, a plastic handle most likely will break quickly. Wooden handles made from hickory or ash are usually the highest in quality and longest lasting.
If you decide on a wooden handle for your new axe, you should carefully inspect the wood’s grain. A parallel grain to the bit of the axe will provide extra strength whereas a perpendicular grain will be weaker and more prone to snapping or splintering. Additionally, examine the handle for growth-rings noting their width. The growth rings should be plentiful, narrow, and closely spaced rather than only a few rings that are spaced far apart as it will not be as strong.
Design Elements
By selecting a solid axe head that lacks noticeable joints, you can rest assured that the strength of the head has not been compromised in any way. The head must be intact with the shaft in order to use it safely while getting a good thrust on the lumber you are working with. Check that the axe is solid which will also work to prevent it from breaking or splintering.
Contrary to popular belief, there is more than one type of axe. There are three different types of axes. Let’s take a closer look at the different types.
- Chopping Axes: The chopping axe features a lighter head when compared to the other versions. This model cuts against the grain of the wood. They also have sharper edges.
- Mauls: A maul has a duller blade than the chopping axe in order to split along with the wood’s grain. They are also larger making them more appropriate for larger woods and projects.
- Splitting Axes: Splitting axes also have duller blades and cut with the grain. Splitting axes are best used for splitting wood, preparing kindling, chopping limbs, branches, and smaller woods or trees.
Tips for Splitting Wood
Now that you’ve gained an understanding of the important features in a wood splitting axe, let’s explore some tips for getting the most out of your new investment.
- Inspect your splitting axe to ensure it is in proper working order. You do not need to be overly concerned with sharpness. As long as the head in intact with the handle, you are good to go.
- While seasoned wood tends to split easier, using green wood means you won’t need to stack it before splitting it. You will be first cutting the wood into manageable sections, stacking it, letting it season, unstacking the wood, finally split it, and then finally restacking it. It really is a matter of preference, time, and patience.
- Never attempt to split wood with nails in it. You can damage your axe, or you could send a nail flying into the air, or worse, your eye.
- Wood that has a lot of knots in it can be extremely difficult to split. Curvy wood is also difficult to deal with.
- Use a chopping block if at all possible.
- Place your piece of wood on its end either on your chopping block or on the ground, propping it up if necessary.
- Swing the splitting axe using straight arms and aim for the center of the wood. With your feet slightly apart, raise the axe up again straight over your head. Swing the axe straightforward.
- Utilize speed and momentum instead of relying too much on upper body strength. Let the axe do the work.
- It may take several hits to split, and that is fine. You may need to wrestle the axe free from the wood at times as well. Just keep a slow and steady pace.
Finding the best axe for splitting wood may seem overwhelming at first. Keeping the basics, you’ve learned today in mind along with your specific needs will make finding the best wood splitting axe a breeze. You will soon go from novice wood splitter to a seasoned pro by practicing and taking your time.
We hope our wood splitting axe reviews and buyer’s guide were helpful to you. We love hearing from our readers. Drop us a quick line below with your favorite axes and tips for splitting wood.
Jim R. says
I bought Husqvarna 30-Inch Wooden Splitting Axe accidentally a few months ago and want to recommend it. I don’t know what to say about axes, this one is great. Also, I noticed that water doesn’t ruin it, it was lying under the rain and still looks good.
Hannah says
I’ve never thought that finding a good axe is a hard task! But I’ve caught myself looking through the 6th website with ratings. It seems like I’m becoming a real gardener!
harper says
The head of the model that I bought a few weeks ago tends to dull pretty quickly. I didn’t face this problem before and now I just don’t know what to do. Can anyone help me and give useful advice as I can’t find anything on the internet?
Polly says
I like the size of Truper 30958 8-Pound Splitting Maul and the handle this axe has. It suits me perfectly and copes with everything I need.
Essie says
I don’t know what to say about an ax. This is my favorite – Gerber 36-Inch Power Splitting Axe. You can try it too if you want.
Michael says
It seems like choosing an ax is an easy process, but I’ve already spent 2 days on reading different reviews and watching testimonials videos. I hope, that I’ll make the right choice and get what I need for splitting wood.
Bishop says
Helko Werk Vario 2000 Heavy Log Splitter is beautiful and copes with everything I need. Recommend it for those who like beautiful things even for simple work, for me, it’s very important.
Mohammed says
Estwing Camper’s Axe is comfortable and easy to use even for those who have never split the wood before. That’s why I highly recommend it if you left the city and moved to suburbians or if you only start your gardening journey.
Ashlynn says
I’m tired of searching for an ideal ax for pines. It seems like they all have their downsides, and my ideal ax isn’t even invented. Do you think there’s an ideal option for pines?
Olivia says
I didn’t think it’s so hard to find the right ax for splitting wood since I started searching for it in offline shops. So now I’m trying to find a good option online.
Susan says
I saw that Helko Werk Vario is a great ax as you’ve said it here. So, I’ve been reading this blog for the last year, that’s why I believed you and tried this ax too. And I have nothing to regret! A great product which costs its money.
Gregor says
I’m afraid to imagine how many pines you have cut down in search of a better ax! Without jokes, The Helko Werk Vario 2000 is a hero ax. Perfect handle and perfect strength.
Ferdinand says
I always use The Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Akse and I do not agree that it can’t cope with thick trees or branches. Believe me, this is all right!!
Brayan says
I love tools with a modern design, it raises my mood for work. The Truper 30958 8-Pound Splitting Maul literally flies in my hands and works by itself. Check it out for yourself!
Gabriel says
Fiskars Axe holds its edge well, this means sharping is slower. I bought wet stones to assist with keeping a clean and sharp edge
Kristofer says
“Agreed. Very good quality. Chops much better than any other axe I’ve used. I highly recommend.
This axe is so good I was able to chop for a lot longer without getting tired. Design and materials used feel great. I will be getting bigger version as well”
Austin says
Because of its helicoidal shape, The Fiskars Iso Core Eight Pound Maul wedge twists to open up the log and this saves a lot of time and effort. Not such hard work and a job finished faster, so splitting logs is now a much more enjoyable task.
Lucas says
I love the sound of the first crack in the tree. The Fiskars Iso Core Eight Pound Maul is really powerful thing, it does not take away my strength, but on the contrary gives. A great tool for trees 20 inches in diameter!
Eric says
its just a HUGE amount of fun on top of being a fantastic and cheap Fiskars axe, that also looks great in my opinion as well! and the size is a big thing as well it can fit in any of my smaller sized back-packs. I take it in any hiking and it’s always useful.
Viran says
Fiskars is the most comfortable. It’s the blade is very easy to sharpen. just hold the flat 1cm blade edge flat-against the whetstone while pushing it (doing this on both sides), until it gained its edge back, and then it was scary sharp again.
Den says
I’ve got the 1400A 60cm Fiskars axe. It arrived fairly sharp, probably about right for an axe – any sharper and I’d be concerned about the edge folding as I chopped. The plastic sheath doubles as a carry handle and fits securely on the axe head. So far I’m really pleased with it!
Felix says
I’ve no idea how the axe head is secured to the handle of the Fiskars axe – I’m used to wooden-handled axes – but it does appear to be a secure fit that has not loosened yet.