A splitting axe is a useful tool that most households could benefit from having around! But finding a dependable splitting axe style and brand can be tricky business.
What makes the design of a splitting axe so unique is that it's designed with a wedged blade. When swung, the head's wedge shape causes any log or piece of wood to split into two by the sheer force of impact. The axe doesn't actually cut the wood but instead separates it via the wood's grain.
You will probably find that splitting axe and splitting maul are sometimes used interchangeably because they share many similarities. But an axe tends to be a bit lighter, allowing you to work for more extended periods of time without getting tired. A splitting maul is heavier and uses blunt force to split logs, which requires more energy from you, causing faster exhaustion.
There are a few more things to consider for your new tool! Let's check out this ultimate buying guide to axes for splitting wood.
Top 10 Axes for Splitting Wood
1. Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul 31.5” Wood Splitting Axe
When you purchase an axe from Gransfors Bruk, you know that you're investing in a high-end, luxury tool that is as useful as it is attractive. This specific wood splitting maul measures a total of 31.5" and weighs 7 lb. It's best for splitting very thick, large, and knotty chunks of wood.
The axe head is designed to have a thinner bit with a concave shape, which allows the tool to easily cut into the surface of the wood upon impact before it is quickly pushing apart the wood at the broader point of the blade.
Pros:
- High-quality craftsmanship and durability.
- Comes with a vegetable-tanned leather sheath for storage and safety.
- Great for splitting large pieces of wood.
Cons:
- Weight is not suitable for splitting smaller pieces.
This axe is best for those seeking a beautiful and well-crafted tool that efficiently splits large chunks of wood.
2. Fiskars Super Splitting Axe 36”
If you're on the hunt for a no BS, reliable axe, look no further than this highly rated 36 incher from Fiskars. This wood splitter is the definition of perfectly balanced and has an excellent power-to-weight ratio that not only increases the swing speed but also delivers a powerful blow.
This axe weighs a total of 5.85 lb, so you have more precise control while chopping. The blade has been designed with a convex curve and a sharper edge that lasts the test of time. On the handle, you'll find a textured non-slip grip to improve control and reduce hand strain.
Pros:
- Virtually unbreakable design that blows the competition out of the water.
- Lifetime warranty included with your purchase.
- A brand you can trust to deliver tools that live up to the hype.
Cons:
- Recommended for taller users.
This axe is best for choppers who are in need of a reliable, sturdy axe from a company they can trust.
3. Lexivon v28 Splitting Axe
Backed by a lifetime limited warranty, Lexivon's fiberglass injected handle axe prioritizes durability and ergonomics. The v28's innovative design is super lightweight compared to wooden or steel handles and allows the user to have an effective swing that splits wood in one stroke.
The wedge-shaped blade has been drop-forged and heat-treated from grade A high-carbon steel for a super sharp edge that cuts deeper and cleaner. The axe also comes with a protective carrying sheath to prolong the life of your axe.
Pros:
- Non-slip TPR grip for ultimate hold.
- Durable fiberglass handle that won’t splinter or bend.
- Balance point that distributes the weight for a powerful swing.
Cons:
- Rough tool marks on blade’s edge, may need to be retooled shortly after receiving.
This axe is best for folks who want a budget-friendly axe that's durable, lightweight, and gets the job done.
4. Powerhouse PHX-13 High Performance Axe
The Powerhouse axe is exactly what it promises to be, a powerhouse. Reviewers rave about how well this high-performance axe swings and splits wood. This tool rocks a super-hardened and strong C45 carbon steel blade that has been heat-treated and cooled in an oil bath for increased strength.
The handle has also been thoughtfully designed and constructed to be shock absorbing without sacrificing grip. The handle length helps the chopper wield a swing with triple the power of an ordinary axe.
Pros:
- Great for medium to large-sized logs.
- The handle is lightweight, yet strong and makes chopping comfortable.
- Axe head made from hardened carbon steel that's heat-treated for durability.
Cons:
- Issues with the plastic end cap of handle breaking or cracking.
This axe is best for absorbing shock and vibrations from impact for comfort and longevity while chopping wood.
5. Helko Werk Vario 2000 Heavy Log Splitter
The Vario 2000 by Helko Werk has a reputation that precedes itself. Made to take on the most demanding of jobs, this thing delivers a striking force that cuts through dense and thick wood like butter. Constructed from strong and durable C50 high carbon steel, the blade is forged to last and tackle most wood splitting tasks.
The handle material is made from high-quality American hickory that has been carefully inspected and hand-chosen for its density and grain orientation. The wood is sanded to 150 grit for utmost grip comfort when using the axe. The total weight of this wood splitting axe is 8.8 lbs, and the length measures 36 total inches.
Pros:
- Handcrafted in Germany from grade A American hickory and C50 high carbon steel.
- Full-grain leather sheath and 1 oz axe guard protective oil included with purchase.
- Prompt and helpful customer service.
Cons:
- Some imperfections in the balance due to the hand made nature of this product.
This axe is best for heavy-duty and massive chopping projects ranging from splitting tree trunks, heavy firewood, and large rounds.
6. Husqvarna 28” Steel Splitting Axe with Fiberglass Handle
Although this 28" splitting axe is a little shorter than usual, it's a great perk for shorter humans looking for a powerful tool. Weighing in at just over 6 lb, you'll have great control and precision with this axe from Husqvarna.
The head of the axe has been covered in a non-stick coating that reduces friction against the dense wood for improved glide and splitting. It can also be used as a hammer when paired with a regular splitting wedge, however, it's not recommended to use with a steel wedge.
Pros:
- Fantastic weight distribution and perfect balance for a powerful swing.
- Fiberglass composite handle that won’t splinter.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- Shorter handle length than other similar axes.
This axe is best for shorter people in need of a super sharp axe that can take on larger firewood logs.
7. Estwing Fireside Friend 14” Wood Splitting Maul
Estwing's Fireside Friend is a small but heavy and powerful little guy that can split apart medium to small logs. It's a great companion to keep on hand while camping, trekking, or during a bonfire for quick and easy chopping. Its size makes it super convenient to transport but doesn't take away from its efficiency.
This axe is made in the USA and forged from durable American steel, so you know you've got quality on your hands. On the grip, you'll find hand sanded and lacquered genuine leather for a durable yet comfortable and attractive finish.
Pros:
- Shock resistant, genuine leather grip.
- Includes ballistic nylon protective sheath.
- Forged in one piece guaranteeing strength and durability.
Cons:
- Paint eventually chips off from constant wear.
This axe is best for outdoor folk searching for an easy to transport but powerful splitting wood axe.
8. Interstool Steel Splitting Maul
This steel splitting maul by Instertool does one thing, and it does it well - split timber. The axe’s head weighs in at 4.9 lb and is made from high-quality steel that can tackle even the toughest of logs. The flat poll of the head is great for driving wedges or doubling as a sledgehammer when needed.
The handle measures up to 32”, making the total axe length 34.4” and 7.1 lbs. It’s made from lightweight fiberglass that’s comfortable to wield and won’t slip while swinging.
We also love that this comes with the bonus of a silicone cap that keeps not only your axe safe, but any user carrying it around too.
Pros:
- Silicone blade cap included to protect the maul from damage.
- Well-balanced tool for extra precision and power.
- Secure head-to-handle joint for longevity.
Cons:
- Handle is hollow.
This axe is best for medium projects that require a lightweight and well-balanced tool that takes on sizable rounds without a problem.
9. Husqvarna 30” Wooden Splitting Axe
Another impressive wood splitting axe by Husqvarna, this 30" hickory handled tool is best for thicker wood splitting projects. The long handle design is meant to give the swinger ultimate strength and power and also allows for a two-hand grip for those who prefer it.
The axe head is forged in Sweden by sturdy Swedish steel and cut to go into wood easily and quickly - without any extra effort from the chopper. This brand of axes are made to last for years, but be sure to store correctly and out of high heat to avoid handle shrinkage.
Pros:
- Axe head is secured to the handle by a wooden and steel wedge for strong construction.
- Longer 30” handle for extra power and easy two-hand grip.
- Includes a leather blade cover.
Cons:
- Sheath is loose and can come off easily.
This axe is best for those who prioritize killer reviews coupled with great value and performance for splitting thicker wood.
10. Tabor Tools Chopping Axe
If you're looking for a trusty camping and outdoor hatchet that can handle limbing, chopping, and carving, Tabor Tools' chopping axe may be the answer for you! The blade has been forged from carbon steel and treated with heat to produce a strong tool. The handle is made from fiberglass to reduce shock and provide an anti-slip trip during use.
The design prioritizes not only effective chopping but an ergonomic design to reduce strain on your body while at work, improving comfort and your ability to work harder for longer.
Pros:
- Firewood axe for small to medium logs.
- Resharpenable blade so your tool lasts a lifetime.
- Easy and safe storage with the included rubber safety sheath.
Cons:
- Comes a bit dull and may need to be sharpened.
This axe is best for campers shopping for an outdoor hatchet that can be easily transported into the wilderness.
How to Buy the Best Axes for Splitting Wood
The first step is considering your needs when it comes to shopping for a quality splitting maul or axe. Whether you need something that can bring down massively thick tree trunks or just a tool that chops medium logs with ease, this will determine the size and construction of your axe!
Here are a few things to look out for when trying to choose a good splitting axe.
Handle Material
There are many options when it comes to the material of your new splitting axe handle; wood, steel, and fiberglass are often the top three choices. A wood handle makes for an attractive axe that stands the test of time when made from strong hickory. However, wood may splinter easily from heavy use. Steel is often the strongest and most durable but can affect the weight and balance negatively. And last but not least, fiberglass is a great middle-ground that doesn't weigh the axe down, but provides excellent durability - but it's often not as attractive as the others.
Handle Length
Aside from trying to choose the material of your handle, you'll also want to decide what length is best for you. A longer length will yield a more powerful and swing that can help chop up the big boys. A long handle will also help you get a sturdy two-hand grip for projects that require it.
If you just need something for camping trips, chopping small tree limbs or other projects around the house, an axe with a smaller handle is easier to control, store and transport from place to place.
Weight and Balance
When it comes to the power of your chop, the weight, and how it's balanced can play a significant role. While it's common practice to think that the heavier the axe, the more powerful, you'll also need to remember that it can limit the precision of your swing. Going for something more in the middle, around 5-7 lbs, is often the sweet spot for a well-weighted axe.
Make sure the balance of the axe head to the length of the handle has been factored into the construction of your axe too - an unbalanced axe is unpredictable and uncomfortable to swing.
The Best Axe for Splitting Wood: Fiskars Super Splitting Axe
You can never go wrong with an axe from Fiskars. A brand that specializes in all things relating to outdoor work, home improvement, and tools with a blade, they’ve nailed it when it comes to choosing the best wood splitting axe. You can rest assured you’re getting great value, high performance, and lifelong durability with this super splitting axe.
There you have it! The ultimate guide to buying the best axes for splitting wood!