Best Wood Splitting Wedges reviewed

by Joost Nusselder | Updated on:  August 23, 2021
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This ultra-modern age of technology could not element the necessity of using wood as fuel even today.  You obviously cannot set a log to fire once at a time and so you need a wood-splitting wedge to split wood into small pieces.

Depending on the variation of customer’s demand wood splitting wedge manufacturers manufacture their products using different materials of different specifications. Our objective is to introduce you with these specifications so that you can understand which specification matches your needs and pick the best product from a large variation.

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Wood Splitting Wedge Buying Guide

To make the best use of your money and time some important parameters you need to keep in mind. Here I am going to introduce you with these parameters so that you can pick the best wood splitting wedge from numerous varieties and brands.

1. Construction Material

Construction material has a significant effect to determine the quality of the wood splitting wedge. Generally, steel and iron of different compositions are used to manufacture wood splitting wedges. Depending on the composition of the steel it is categorized in different grades and characteristics vary with the variation of the composition of the construction material.

A good wood splitting wedge is robust and durable but not brittle. And these characteristics are largely determined by the construction material of the wedge.

2. Shape and Size

Some wood splitting wedges are flat in shape, some are round and some are diamond shape. Among these 3 shapes, the diamond-shaped wood splitting wedges are found most effective to split wood. The shape of the wedge has a significant effect on its sharpness also.

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Wood splitting wedges have different sizes. You cannot split the wood of any diameter using a particular wedge. Each kind of wedge has its limit to split wood up to a certain limit. So, during purchasing wedge do not forget to check the splitting capacity of the wedge.

3. Transportability

If you are going camping or hiking you will feel the necessity of carrying your wedge with you. In that case, it is better to choose a wedge of a smaller size.

But if you use it only indoor and your main concern is to split the wood of wider diameter you can choose a wedge of a bigger size.

4. Weight

The range of weight of wedge generally varies from 5 to 6 pounds and wedges weighing in this range are perfect for cutting most woods.  If you need to split larger logs you can choose larger wedges that are heavier in weight.

5. Maintenance

Generally, wedges do not need so much maintenance. You just may need to sharpen the blade occasionally. This gives a wedge an upper hand to a wood splitting axe.

6. Brand

Whenever we search for branded products actually we are searching for quality.  Estwing, Redneck Convent, Logosol, Garden, and Ames are some of the renowned brands of wood splitting wedges.

7. Cost

Cost is one of the most important factors that hardly can be ignored. Cost depends on the quality and functional ability of the wedges. If you are looking for smarter wedges you have to pay more. But, if a traditional wedge is enough to meet your need you can get it a comparatively lower price.

Best Wood Splitting Wedges reviewed

1. Estwing Sure Split Wedge

Estwing Sure Split Wedge is made of soft steel. You may think that how can a tool made of soft metal can be of good quality? Well, at this point I would like to reveal you the advantage of using a tool that is made of soft metal.

Metals are ductile in nature that means it can absorb more force. When a tool is made of comparatively soft metal it can absorb more energy and will not break down even after applying high pressure on it.

Yes, it may bend but you need to apply a lot of force to break it.  Now, it is clear that a wood splitting wedge made of comparatively soft metal is more durable.

So, you can understand that Estwing Sure Split Wedge is a durable wedge that allows the user to apply extra wedge action. Like its name, it ensures the splitting process by allowing the wedge to continue throughout the wood line for sure splitting.

The size of its cutting edge is fixed in such a way so that you can split even the stubborn and knotty wood logs easily. It is lightweight and so you can carry it anywhere you want for camping, hunting, hiking, etc. without facing any trouble.

If you give a look at this Estwing Sure Split Wedge made by the USA I hope that your time won’t be wasted.

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2. Redneck Convent Manual Log Splitter Wedge

If you want to have the experience of cutting hard oak like cutting butter with a knife you can pick Redneck Convent Manual Log Splitter Wedge. It makes your work of splitting wood very comfortable and trouble-free. I can say it with confidence that you will agree with me after knowing the working mechanism of the Redneck Convent Manual Log Splitter Wedge.

It bites, sticks split but does not bounce out even after hitting the wood with great force. You can see in the picture that the wedge has a diamond-shaped cross-section. This diamond shape cross-section has made the wedge strong enough to weaken the logs at multiple angles so that you can split the log easily within a short time.

To make this tool user-friendly its end is made sharp so that you can start the splitting work easily. The striking face is flat and wide that provides centered and efficient blow. Its notch prevents it from popping out while striking.

Oak, hickory, walnut, sycamore, etc. can be split with Redneck Convent Manual Log Splitter Wedge easily. But if the wood is knotty you may face some difficulties. Also, if it is hardwood with large diameters you may face some difficulties.

Heat-treated and hardened railway steel has been used to manufacture this tool. It is strong, durable and it is covered with thick paint to protect it from rust and corrosion. But, the thick paint has made the wedge slippery and it may cause you some problem for the first couple of use.

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3. Logosol Smart-Splitter, 14-Ton Manual Log Splitter

Logosol Smart-Splitter is smartly designed log splitter that is completely different from traditional wood splitter wedge. Both young and old people with expertise and without expertise find it a safe wood splitting tool.

Since it is designed in a different way than traditional wood splitters you may be confused about the process of using it. Once you know the process of using this smart wood splitter I am pretty much sure you will not like other wood splitters. So, here is the process of using it-

You just have to place the wood under the head of the axe. Then lift the weight and drop it. It hits the log up to 14 tons at the edge. Repeat the step for several times. And the work is done.

A nylon washer connects the hammer and the main splitter. This nylon washer may tear after repetitive use. In that case, you need to replace the old nylon washer with a new one. Except this, you do not have to spend more for any other parts of the splitter.

It is a perfect tool for cottage owners, forest owners, firewood management, and homeowners. Its ergonomic design takes care of your shoulder and backbone.

You may think it is an expensive wood splitting wedge. But if you think about the advantage, the price is not so high rather I consider it reasonable compared to its advantage.

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4. Inertia Wood Splitter

Inertia Wood Splitter is designed so smartly that it will not hurt the user even if he does not remain conscious during splitting wood. To ensure the safety during wood splitting designer of inertia has been designed their product in such a smart way.

If you are not acquainted with Inertia wood splitter it may become difficult for you to understand how to use it. Well, it is very simple to use Inertia. Place the log at the center position of the splitter and then hit it with a small hammer.

You can split fireplace logs, camping firewood, bonfires, and meat smoking woods up to 6.5-inch diameter using Inertia Wood splitter. One problem you may face that the wood may get stuck in the base.

Cast iron has been used as the construction material of this wood splitter. The outer coating protects this device from getting rust. Though it is made of cast iron it is not too heavy to carry from one place to another. You can use it comfortably in both indoor and outdoor.

There are mounting holes in this log splitter and so you can mount it securely anywhere you want. The manufacturer company of Inertia wood splitter is Inertia Gear. Inertia Gear is among those customer-friendly company who gives the highest priority to their customer’s satisfaction. If you are not satisfied with their product you can give it back to them and they will refund you without any question.

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5. Helko Werk Splitting Wedge

In the family of the wood splitting wedge, Helko’s progress is noticeable. Helko Werk Splitting Wedge made of German C50 High-Grade Carbon Steel is a strong and sturdy wood splitting wedge that can endure a high pressure without experiencing any damage. So without any doubt, it is a durable wedge.

A common problem we face during wood splitting is getting hurt by chipping pieces. Helko Werk Splitting Wedge is made in such a way that it does not chip or crack even after applying high force. It has grooves in the center position that is helpful for pinching.

The wide striking face of this wedge is ideal for hammering. The product comes with a vegetable-tanned leather sheath and a 1oz. bottle of axe guard.

It is a high-quality product made by Germany. You can use this wood splitting wedge for splitting all kinds of wood. It is not so big in size and also not very heavy in weight. So, you can carry it anywhere easily – for both indoor and outdoor use, it is a perfect product.

Once you include it in your toolbox you do not need to replace it with another wood splitting wedge rest of your life. This strong and high-quality wood splitting wedge will serve you rest of your life as an obedient servant.

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Frequently Asked Question

How do you split wood with a wedge?

What’s better for splitting wood AXE or maul?

For very large chunks of wood, the splitting maul is a great choice, as its heavier weight will give you additional power. … However, smaller users may find the heavier weight of the maul difficult to swing. For smaller pieces of wood, or splitting around the wood’s edges, a splitting axe is the better choice.

Is it better to split wood wet or dry?

Absolutely! It may be slightly more difficult than splitting dry wood, but many people actually prefer to split wet wood because it encourages faster drying times. As mentioned earlier, split wood contains less bark, so moisture is released from it more quickly.

Should a wood splitting maul be sharp?

Overall it’s better to sharpen them. A maul doesn’t have to be sharp enough to shave with since the edge is needed only on the first swing. After that, the wedge shape of the head parts the round. A blunt maul will split red oak and other species where you have a crack or check at the ends of your blocks.

What is a splitting wedge?

splitting wedge helps split wood faster with its 60 degree bevel and forged head. The splitting wedge can be used with a sledge hammer or splitting maul to easily split firewood into kindling. The splitting wedge is made of machined, ground and heat treated carbon steel to withstand rigorous use.

What is a splitting wedge used for?

A splitting wedge is designed to make the process easier. It’s used with, and complements, an axe or a maul by increasing the splitting power with every strike, reducing the necessary time and effort.

Is splitting wood a good workout?

Splitting a stack of wood is a tremendous workout. You work your arms, back, and core swinging the maul around. It’s also a great cardio workout. … Be sure to switch up your hand placement during wood splitting sessions to work the different sides of your body.

Is it better to split wood green or seasoned?

If you are splitting green wood by hand, the general consensus is that wood is easier to split when it is green. … Many experienced wood splitters prefer to split seasoned conifer wood, which tends to be sappy and TOO soft when it is fresh.

How does a small wedge help split a big log of wood?

With a wedge, you’ll get better leverage. Using an ax will place non-stop strain on the arms. The maul is much duller than an ax and can take more energy and time to split logs. The wedge will deliver results fast and easy, cutting logs and blocks of wood down to size, effortlessly.

Does splitting wood make you stronger?

“Chopping wood engages virtually the entire core, including lower and upper back, shoulders, arms, abs, chest, legs and butt (glutes).” … In addition to giving you some serious muscle burn, when you chop wood steadily for long stretches at a time, you are also performing a cardio exercise.

Which one is easier to chop the wood with blunt or sharp AXE?

Answer. Actually area under shape axe is very less as compared to area under blunt axe. Since, less area applies more pressure, so, a sharp knife can easily cut across the trees bark than the blunt knife.

How much does a splitting maul cost?

Coming with a hand-forged head, American hickory handle, steel collar, and leather sheath, the Helko Werk traditional splitting maul costs around $165 online.

What is the easiest wood to split?

Pecan and Dogwood are both an excellent choice as firewood. Both burn hot and easily, are easy to split and do not smoke or spark much. Red or Soft Maple both burn at a medium heat level. These woods are easy to burn but not split and do not smoke or spark excessively.

Q: Does my wood splitting wedge need any maintenance?

Ans: Generally, wood splitters do not require any special maintenance. If you use it frequently the blade may become blunt and you may need to sharpen it occasionally.

Q: May I suffer from back pain because of using a wood splitting wedge?

Ans: It depends on the way of the usage of the wood splitting wedge and the time of your working. Some wood splitting wedges have an ergonomic design to prevent any kind of health problem of the user.

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Conclusion

Some brands of wood splitting wedges are doing business for a long time and they have a good reputation for providing good quality products and for better customer service.

On the other hand, some are new but their products are also good in quality and to expand their business they are offering their products at a comparatively lower price. So, if you have a short budget and you are looking for a smarter wood splitting wedge you can choose these products of new manufacturers.

I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Tools Doctor, content marketer, and dad. I love trying out new equipment, and together with my team I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with tools & crafting tips.