Best Ax For Chopping Wood Of 2024: Completed List
Sonya Harris Apr 19, 2024 2:17 PM
What is the current state of the best ax for chopping wood in the market? As a result of the sheer number of options available, clients are likely to feel intimidated while trying to find an appropriate brand to shop for, There are simply too many choices, many of which are low-quality knock-offs, on the market.
In order to aid you in making an informed decision, we've put together a list of 17 different best ax for chopping wood product options that we've investigated and analyzed.
Overview
With so many axes on the market, even the smallest differences might make it tough to determine which are the best axes for cutting wood.
This is a legitimate issue and question. Misuse of an improperly selected tool will simply exacerbate existing problems or result in damage, neither of which is desirable. With this buying guide, you will learn which kind of axe is ideal for splitting wood in the winter so that you can keep your home toasty and cozy.
I prefer to use axes and mauls instead of a log splitter because not everyone has the money to buy one. However, the process of splitting wood is a lot more physically demanding. If you are physically able and don't mind the physical component of cutting wood, then an axe is the best option. Some axes can cost up to $400, but that doesn't mean they're cheap. However, not everyone needs such an expensive axe.
Season after season, you may only need a $40 workhorse to get the job done. Although I have tried to include everyone, I have only included the best of each area.
The greatest chopping axes will be discussed in this piece, so if you need an axe to split logs, keep reading.
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Log size
An axe's size and weight are the most important considerations when it comes to splitting wood. Splitting mauls are important for some of your largest pieces of wood, but they are not required for daily firewood preparation.
To split your average-sized pieces, you'll need a good-sized splitting axe if you're having trouble swinging these things with proper form.
Axe type
For splitting wood, there are literally thousands of axes to choose from. From the cheapest mass-produced hatchets to the most exquisite hand-forged heirloom pieces, manufacturers like Gransford Bruks provide a wide variety of options.
You can choose between an old-fashioned wooden handle and an ultra-modern plastic one. Perhaps a plastic handle would be more convenient for you if you don't want to deal with the effort of oiling your wooden handle.
Handle Material
The three most popular materials used to make splitting axe handles are hardwood, plastic, and fiberglass, as well as the less common forged steel.
Handles made of traditional hardwood axes are the most popular since they are lightweight, pleasant and naturally shock-absorbing.
The negative of wood is that it is environmentally sensitive. Because of its elasticity, it can expand or contract depending on temperature and humidity, absorbing water and other substances that will eventually cause your handle to break if it isn't properly protected.
Because of this, it's easy to snap your axe handle, no matter how much it cost you. If you miss a swing and your strike hits the handle, your axe will break.
Wooden handles, on the other hand, are the simplest to replace and can be easily adapted to meet your needs by changing the size, shape, and finishing (oils, waxes or lacquers). The best axes on the market now have hardwood handles.
Composite handles are made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic and are guaranteed to last a lifetime. It's possible to find modern splitting axes with composite handles that are nearly durable and provide a good grip, but they lack the natural feel of wood.
There is a downside to using a composite handle. Your axe will need to be replaced if the handle is damaged.
Axe handles are made from a single piece of steel that is also used to make the axe's head. When splitting logs, they are the most robust alternative, but they offer little in the way of shock absorption.
Handle length
At least one hand should be clasped around the handle of most axes in order to swing or throw it as well as possible. On the other hand, with splitting wood axes, having a lengthy axe handle is nearly always a good choice. There are two major causes behind this.
There are two primary reasons for this. First, you'll want to be able to put as much force into it as possible as you swing. Instead of having to carefully aim your target from a distance, as you must with throwing axes, or wood carving tools, you will have a larger, closer target and far more control over where your axe goes.
Cutting down on the number of swings required to chop wood and the time it takes to split wood is only possible if your strong swing can be let out every time (Just a note, if you are splitting wood for a camp fire you should be able to split your wood in one swing, if it takes multiple swings either the wood is too big or your blade or swing itself is too weak.)
To get to our second point, we need the strongest swing possible. We are looking for a handle that is long enough to allow us to utilize both hands while holding it. Swing with both hands for a more stable swing, improved posture, and a decreased risk of injury from recoil. This may seem more evident.
Weight
However, there are still some individuals who believe that heavier is better. However, this is never the case.
You'll want an axe that's not too heavy for you to handle. Of course, if you're heavier, you'll have more splitting power. However, what if you can't wield the axe because it is too powerful for you?
The length of the handle
Yes, the length of the handle does matter! You may have noticed a trend toward longer handles. However, it isn't always the greatest choice.
The longer the handle, the better the chance of a successful strike. But because we're all different shapes and sizes, it doesn't work for everyone, and some individuals really like shorter handles. Because this is a matter of personal preference, be sure to choose your preferred length before making a purchase.
Blade’s weight
Axes with a strong metal head are what I usually seek. For one simple reason: If the metal you're using is light, it's more likely to bounce off the wood upon impact, resulting in a shallower strike.
In addition, a convex or prominent wedge form for your blade will make it easier to split the wood with each hit.
Durability
For splitting wood, you need an axe that is long-lasting. However, when it comes to durability, what we're looking at is how stable the blade head is during a chop. To acquire a consistent chop, you'll need to aim at the same spot every time you split wood.
Most handles feature an extra piece of wood within to keep the blade's head closed without much difficulty..
In terms of durability, the axe's substance is less important because most wood is made of a hard wood like hickory or is made of metal or synthetic material.
Since the inside of wood often becomes wet or damp, we'll want to make sure it's water-resistant to prevent rusting of the blade head.
What size of axe do I need?
If you're splitting wood, keep in mind that you want to get everything done in one solid motion. A large axe is needed to split large logs, whilst a smaller axe can be used to split smaller logs. Isn't it obvious?
For all of my log splitting, I rely on the Gransford Bruks 31-inch splitting axe. The Hults Bruk Bjork isn't the only axe I'd recommend, but for smaller logs, such as those with a diameter of 6-8 inches, it will suffice.
Do I need a sledgehammer for splitting wood?
Log splitting necessitates the use of a sledgehammer. Even if your axe is razor-sharp, it will get stuck from time to time. To pry the log open and free your axe, use a sledgehammer and a wedge.
The poll of your axe should never be hit with a sledgehammer! What a disaster! Your axe will be ruined.
Splitting Axes vs Mauls – Which are Better for Splitting Wood?
It's understandable that some people aren't familiar with the differences between an axe and a splitting maul.. Many people in the United States and other developed countries aren't interested in learning how to split wood or figuring out the answer.
Splitting axes are ideal for chopping rounds of wood and smaller logs into manageable pieces. Use the splitting axe's razor-sharp edge to chip away at stubborn hardwoods that won't split cleanly. This will weaken the wood and make it easier to split in the future.
Splitting wood is the primary purpose of mauls, which are effectively sledgehammers. Large, hard pieces of wood work best for them. Because of their added mass and rounded edges, the force of the strike will simply rip the wood apart. They are, however, heavier than splitting axes and more difficult to operate, particularly for smaller individuals and those who are inexperienced with splitting wood.
Should a wood splitting AXE be sharp?
According to research, the sharpest axe head is 15% faster than the dull one when it comes to chopping down a wood. When cutting damp wood, it's advisable to use a blunt tool rather than sharpening the blade. Why? It's possible for a sharp axe to get lodged in the wood, which can cause the handle to break. It can be difficult to keep an old, blunt axe in working order. In the absence of regular honing, it will quickly become dull.
You should consider purchasing no-rust heads if you frequently use the axe, regardless of the material from which it is constructed. You can also get an axe sharpening stone, but you'll have to make your own.
A hatchet is always nice to have on hand, thus it's a good idea to have an axe. As far as axes go, you should go with the best.
A hatchet is a useful tool to have, therefore having an axe on hand is a good idea. The best axe for chopping wood should be purchased if you intend to chop wood. Before making a purchase, make a list of all of your needs and do some internet research on customer reviews and product features to make sure that what you get is perfect for you. Get a better understanding of axes.
