• Home
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy / Disclaimer

Chainsaw Journal

Home Tools, Power Equipment, & Toys — Expert Advice

  • Blog
  • Outdoor Tools
    • Lawn Mower
    • Leaf Blowers
      • Miter Saws
        • Miter Saw Comparison
    • Portable Table Saw
    • Outdoor Cooking
    • Log Splitter
    • Wood Chippers / Shredders
    • Hedge Trimmer
    • Snow Blowers
  • Chainsaws
    • Chainsaw Reviews
    • Battery Chainsaws
    • Gas Chainsaws
    • Electric Chainsaws
    • Chainsaw Comparisons
    • Education / How-to
  • Generators
    • Stand-By Generators
    • Gas Generators
    • Inverter Generators
    • Dual-Fuel Generators
    • Generator Education
    • Propane Generators
  • Pools
    • Robotic Pool Cleaners
    • Pool Pumps
    • Pool Heaters
  • Indoor Tools
    • Portable Air Conditioner
    • Air Compressors
  • Indoor Home
    • Air Conditioners
    • Vacuum Cleaners
  • Informative
  • Kids
  • Money / Pandemic
    • Business
You are here: Home / Blog / 2019 : Best Log Splitting Wedge — Simple & Effective

2019 : Best Log Splitting Wedge — Simple & Effective

Last Updated on August 19, 2019 By Chainsaw Journal

Best log splitting wedge 2019

Best Selling wood splitting wedge. (✓ Buy from Amazon)

Millions of people in the USA cut firewood to warm their homes in the Winter. Although we live in a modern world filled with gadgets and power tools, there’s still a lot of value in rolling up your sleeves, putting on some work boots and getting stuff done the traditional way — with our hands. Unfortunately, far too many people expect a tool or an app to solve all of their problems. We’ve forgotten how useful we can be if we’re prepared to do the work.




Origins of the Log Splitting Wedge

This short article is focused on the tried and true log splitting wedge. It’s a simple device that’s been around for a very long time, and it’s still as useful today as it was when it was first invented. If you look at the earliest hand axes, they are essentially the same shape as today’s log splitting wedge. It’s quite incredible how little has changed, other than the obvious refinements of shape and the use of steel but the similarities are quite uncanny.

The earliest hand axes have been dated as early as 1.76 million years old. Amazing isn’t it. These Acheulean handaxes are between 300,000 to 500,000 years old and all we’ve really done to improve upon them in the modern age is add a handle and made them from steel instead of stone.Acheulean hand axes.A log splitting wedge is ideal for circumstances when a regular axe just isn’t good enough to split logs. Axes are fantastic for soft wood and smaller logs but if you need to split hard wood and large logs then you’ll definitely want a log splitting wedge by your side — and perhaps more than one depending on the size of the wood.

If you’ve never used a log splitting wedge before it’s quite easy.  You take your log splitting wedge and place it in an existing crack in the wood if one exists or, if no crack exists then simply hammer it into the log using either a sledgehammer or the back of a maul.

It’s simple to do but it is taxing on the body if you’re not accustomed to doing it. Plus, be careful with how you swing your tool of choice. As in most activities involving tools, don’t do anything you’re not comfortable with. Here’s a good video to show you how: How to use a log splitting wedge.


Log Splitter = Bulk Wood Splitting

WEN 56207 : best electric log splitter.

6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter with Stand. (Amazon)

If you need to split a lot of wood on a regular basis then you should seriously consider buying a log splitter. There’s a certain tipping point where splitting wood manually will either just take way too much time due to the quantity of wood you have to deal with or it may just be too physically demanding for you to do so.

You have to really consider your circumstances and decide what’s best for your needs. I know I said that splitting wood manually is a useful activity and skill to have but on the other hand, modern tools can help us become far more productive and reduce our chance if injury if we exercise proper safety procedures. Let’s face it, your body will be limited as to how much wood you can split.

I’ve included a couple recommendations for log splitters at the end of this article, but for now — here are four great log splitting wedges for homeowners.


Truper 33040 | Log Splitting Wedge

Truper-33040-Super-Splitter-Wood-Splitting-Wedge

Truper 33040 : An advanced design. Splits logs in 4 directions.

"Buy from Amazon" button

The Truper 33040 is a 4-pound wood splitting wedge with a drop forged head and heat treated for maximum durability. Perfect for splitting firewood for homeowners. This design is what is referred to as a grenade splitting wedge because the four ridges create a split in all 4 directions as opposed to the more traditional flat design that splits wood in only two directions.

This is the best all-around log splitting wedge because it’s more efficient than the older style wedges, but sometimes a more traditional wedge is useful. It really depends on the situation.


Estwing E-5 Sure Split | Log Splitting Wedge

Estwing E-5 Sure Split Wedge 1-7/8-Inch Cutting Edge, 9-Inch

Estwing E-5 Sure Split Wedge. Two fins for improved wood splitting. 9″ long. 5 lbs.

"Buy from Amazon" button

The Estwing E-5 Sure Split log splitting wedge is also a popular and features a unique design well-suited for splitting wood quickly and relatively easy. Weighing 5 lbs, it has a fast taper head that makes it easy to lodge in the wood. As you can see in the photo it as double-fins which help it split the wood even further as it moves through the log. Total length is 9-inches.

Estwing products are made in America.

Old-Fashioned Wood Splitting Tools

Maul, axe and splitting wedges on a log.

Traditional log splitting tools.


 Ludell 11605 | Log Splitting Wedge

*discontinued

Ludell-11605-High-Grade-Steel

Ludell 11605. A traditional wood splitting wedge. 5 lbs.

The Ludell 11604 (available) is what you’d call a traditional log splitting wedge. This is basically the same design that was first invented by our ancestors. One might call it a classic. It’s inexpensive and effective for basic wood splitting. Weighs 5 lbs.

This is a heat treated wedge for greater durability, forged from high quality steel. Has a rust resistant head. It’s basic but it works.


Ames True Temper Torpedo | Log Splitting Wedge

Ames-True-Temper-2414200-4-Pound-Torpedo-Wedge

Every strike projects force in four directions making it more efficient.

"Buy from Amazon" button
The True Temper Torpedo uses the modern efficient four-way design. Traditional wood splitting wedges are far less effective than this particular design. This wedge is 7″ long and weighs 4 pounds which allows it to take repetitive pounding.

This Torpedo Wedge really digs into the wood making it easy to split wood. Yes, it’s a good sign when  tool does what consumers expect it to do. Beyond all of these fact one of it’s most distinguishing feature is the red color, and to be honest, I think it looks great. I know it’s irrelevant but it does look sharp.

Features:

  • Sends strike force in four directions for improved log splitting.
  • Forged steel makes it more durable.
  • 7 inches in length.
  • Weight: 4 lbs.

Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 | Log Splitter

Pow'-R'-Kraft-65556-4-Ton-log-splitter

Great homeowner log splitter: Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556. Very compact.

"Buy from Amazon" button

The Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 is an excellent compact electronic log splitter that any homeowner can use. It simply plugs into your home outlet and can be used inside or outside because it’s an electric. This is truly a workhorse and works surprisingly well for such a portable log splitter.

This is very well rated product on Amazon with a 4.4 rating (out of 5) from over 55 reviews. At the end of the day I’d trust the average opinion of many people rather than just one voice. This is a fantastic log splitter for around the home and it will save you a lot of time and wear and tear on your body. Well worth it.

If you’re tired of splitting with an axe, then this is exactly what you need. Easy to use and much easier on your body.

Features:

  • 15 Amp motor. Plugs into any electrical outlet.
  • 4 tons of RAM splitting power.
  • Will split a log up to 20″ long and 10″ in diameter (12″ most woods).
  • Consistent, safe cutting motion time after time.
  • All steel construction for a long working life.
  • Strong packing to eliminate shipping damage.

The Power of a Log Splitter

A splitting wedge has its limitations. If you go through a lot of firewood in the winter you might want to upgrade.

If you have a need to split a high volume of logs then you should probably consider a log splitter — electric or gas. For most homeowners an affordable electric wood splitter is the best option. Either way, we tell you everything you need to know in our in-depth article.


Southland SELS60 : 6-Ton log splitter

Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60 : best electric log splitter.

"Buy from Amazon" button

Features:

  • Heavy duty 1.75 HP, 15 amp induction motor delivers maximum performance for the most rugged condition
  • Effortlessly does big splitting jobs with a 18-second cycle time
  • Integrated stroke limiter can adjust to a shorter stroke for smaller logs
  • 7″ wheels and configuration to vertical position provides maneuverability and easy storage

When it comes to splitting wood there’s not shortage of options for you. For the average homeowner who only requires a small amount of firewood to cut throughout the year then a log splitting wedge is the ideal tool to use. But, if you have to split large amounts of wood on a regular basis then I strongly recommend you go with a log splitter. Trust me, the money you spend will saved in time and after all, time is all we really have.

Happy wood splitting!

👁️ What are you looking for?

☄️ New! Biggest Inverter…

biggest inverter generator
Quiet. Runs on Gas & Propane. Impressive!

🐷 Editors’ Picks —

🍀 Affordable Chainsaws —

2021 Reviews : TOP 5 Chainsaws for Homeowners

The world has changed a lot since March of 2020 when the pandemic … Read More...

🐳 For Pool Owners

best robotic pool cleaner

2021 Reviews – Dolphin Nautilus CC & Nautilus Plus CC : Advanced Robots

It's no secret that Maytronics makes the majority of the … Read More

🧯 Emergency Generators…

2021 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | Be Prepared for Anything

So, you're on the hunt for the best 12,000 watt generator --- I know that much to be true --- but do … Read More

🚪 Woodworkers Dream

DEWALT DW735 : Best benchtop planer

2021 Update : Best Benchtop Planer | Choosing the right Thickness Planer

Thanks to the pandemic a lot of people have been pouring their … Read More

✏️ Subscribe to Newsletter

🦔 Dig Holes Fast

best post hole digger

2021 Reviews : Best Post Hole Digger — Gas, Cordless & Manual Earth Augers

Choosing the best post hole digger depends on how much … Read More

☄️ Indoor Generators —

Energizer PPS240W01 portable battery power station

Reviews 2021 : Best Portable Power Station — Safe to Use Indoors

Decisions, decisions, decisions. I know, it's overwhelming trying to choose … Read More

🧠 Peace of Mind

Best emergency generator.

2021 Reviews ►Best 9500 Watt Generators — Westinghouse WGen9500 / WGen9500DF

Look no further, above you will see the ►Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator … Read More

🔥 Great Pool Heaters…

2021 Reviews — Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater? — Natural Gas

The Pentair MasterTemp 460736 and the 460805 MasterTemp are two of the best 400,000 BTU pool heaters … Read More...

🪑 Classic Miter Saws…

DeWALT DWS780 vs Bosch GCM12SD

DeWALT DWS780 vs Bosch GCM12SD | Miter Saw Comparison

DeWALT DWS780 vs Bosch GCM12SD : Two classic 12" sliding compound … Read More

🐘 Elegant POWER

2021 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review — Beautiful Silence

Well, the Westinghouse Electric Company built their first commercial electric power station in 1886 to supply Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Since then…

⚖️ Which Brand is Better?

Bosch vs Dewalt : historical tools and new tools

Bosch vs DeWalt : German Design vs American Design / Who Wins?

Everyone has their own idea of which tool brand is the best. So deciding on Bosch vs DeWalt tools

🌳 Firewood GUIDE…

2021 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

We cover a lot of territory in this article. The question : … Read More

⚡️ Flexible Power

Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator

2021 Review — Westinghouse WGen7500DF : Dual Fuel Generator

Do you want the most VALUE for your money? Do you need (or want) a dual-fuel? — If yes, the Westinghouse WGen7500DF should be at the top of your list.

✨ Versatile Power

2021 Reviews : Best 240 Volt Inverter Generators — Buying Guide

Welcome to our indepth guide on buying a 240 Volt Inverter … Read More

👂 Quiet is Beautiful —

best inverter generator

2021 Update : Best Inverter Generators : Reviews & Opinions

Thankfully, inverter generator prices have been coming down over the past couple years due to the … Read More

💦 Pool Energy Savings

2021 Update : Best Inground Pool Pump Reviews : Buying Guide

In 2021, should you buy a pool pump online? The short answer is … Read More...

🐍 Customer Favorites…

Man holding the Oregon Cordless CS300 chainsaw, on a log.

2021 Favorites — Best Chainsaws For Homeowners

In this article we paint the full landscape and show you a diverse range of recommended chainsaws. Safety should ALWAYS be your top priority.

❄️ Frozen Pipes

How Long Does it Take for Pipes to Freeze

Q&A : How Long Does it Take for Pipes to Freeze? Thawing Frozen Pipes?

Winter presents us with a new set of challenges. When pipes freeze, they will often burst…

💡 Keep the Lights on

display product Duromax XP12000EH

Review 2021 — DuroMax XP12000EH — 12000W Dual-Fuel Generator

The DuroMax XP12000EH is a proven winner in every area, including : overall VALUE, durability, reliability and cost per watt.

🐘 What’s the Difference?

alternator vs generator

Alternator vs Generator : What’s the Difference?

Alternator vs Generator — What are the differences? This is a … Read More

📣 — A Classic Debate

Makita vs Milwaukee : Power tool brand comparison

Makita vs Milwaukee ǀ Which is the Top Power Tool Brand?

Most American tool aficionados will say, without hesitation, that Milwaukee is the true leader in this race. Though, I can’t help thinking…

💡 Questions Answered…

where are husqvarna chainsaws made?

Where Are Husqvarna Chainsaws Made? Brand History

Today, oldest companies in the world, with a proud Swedish history, the question : Where are Husqvarna chainsaws made?

💨 Good to Know…

What size air compressor do i need? DEWALT DCC2560T1

What Size Air Compressor Do I Need? Choosing the Right Air Compressor

In this article we answer a common question : What size air … Read More

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy | Disclaimer
Copyright 2020  |   Chainsaw Journal  |   Affiliate Disclaimer