• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Privacy / Disclaimer
  • Contact Us
  • Contributing Writers
  • Site Directory

Chainsaw Journal

Expert Advice on the Modern Home, DIY, Power Tools & Outdoor Power Equipment to help you make intelligent buying decisions.

  • Generators
    • Portable Generators
    • Portable Power Stations
    • Inverter Generators / Quiet
    • Educational
  • Chainsaws
    • Cordless / Battery-Powered
    • Corded-Electric
    • Gas-Powered
    • Chainsaw Reviews
    • Education / How-to
  • Power Equipment
    • Log Splitters
    • Snow Blowers
    • Wood Chippers / Shredders
    • Portable Table Saw
    • Leaf Blowers
    • Lawn Mower
    • Miter Saws
    • Outdoor Cooking
  • Workshop Tools
    • Shop Heaters
    • Woodworking tools
    • Table Saws
    • Automotive
    • Air Compressors
  • Pools
    • Robotic Pool Cleaners
    • Pool Pumps
    • Pool Heaters
  • Indoor Home
    • Air Conditioners
    • Vacuum Cleaners
  • Informative
  • Kids
  • Blog
Home » Blog » Reviews : What’s the Best Log Splitting Wedge to Get the Job Done?

Reviews : What’s the Best Log Splitting Wedge to Get the Job Done?

Last Updated: February 2, 2023 / at: 8:58 am

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.

Table of Contents —
  1. Origins of the Log Splitting Wedge
  2. Log Splitter = Bulk Wood Splitting
  3. Truper 33040 | Log Splitting Wedge
  4. Estwing E-5 Sure Split | Log Splitting Wedge
  5.  Ludell 11605 | Log Splitting Wedge
  6. Ames True Temper Torpedo | Log Splitting Wedge
  7. Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 | Log Splitter
  8. The Power of a Log Splitter
    1. Southland SELS60 : 6-Ton log splitter



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!

Last Updated: February 2, 2023 at 8:58 AM / by Chainsaw Journal

Primary Sidebar

☄️ Home Emergency Backup

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

Last Update ► January 5, 2023

Look no further, above you will see the Westinghouse WGen9500c generator --- one of the best 9500 watt generators you can buy. Period!

🐶 Keep A Tidy Yard…

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Last Update ► February 26, 2023

Resin backyard storage sheds are a great addition to any home or garden. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, these sheds offer a convenient and secure way to store tools, equipment, and other outdoor essentials.

🐷 Editors’ Picks

🐱 The Future is Cordless

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Last Update ► March 7, 2023

What's the best cordless chainsaw for 2023? If you're smart you'll take our advice and choose from our list of fantastic battery-powered chainsaws.

👂🏼 Quiet RV Power

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

Last Updated March 12, 2023

What's the best RV generator for you in 2023? Lucky for you, big brands offer some exceptional inverter generators in a wide range of power output and price points. So, don't worry, there's something here for everyone. I'm focusing on inverter generators because it's essential to have a quiet generator for your RV

🐭 Quiet Backup Power

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 23, 2023

Choosing the best dual-fuel inverter generator is a little more difficult today than it was only a year ago as many new, high-quality models have entered the market, & they're fantastic...

🌲 Firewood Facts…

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

Last Updated February 24, 2023

This article focuses on the always popular topic of firewood. It’s an essential thing for many people. Wood, we need it.

⚡️ Powerful Generators…

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

Last Updated January 23, 2023

What do you need it for and what's your budget? We take a deep dive and review many great 12000W generators.

🪑 The Craft of Wood Turning

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Last Update ► March 21, 2023

There are some tools that separate the best from the rest. I consider a wood lathe to be one of these. A machine that shows you’re a true craftsman. If you’re interested in buying the best wood lathe, you have my greatest respect. Using these machines, you’re able to turn perfectly molded ornate pieces, cut precision holes for screwless joins, and a lot more.

🌟 Clean, Portable Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

Last Updated March 7, 2023

Generators come in a variety to types, which you may or may not be aware of. Everyone has different needs when it comes to choosing the best camping generator their needs. The question is how much power do you need? What's your budget? Are you looking for an inverter generator or a portable power station?

🔥 Intelligent Pool Heaters

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Last Update ► February 15, 2023

Back in 2020 I'm sure a lot of us wondered if we'd ever make it to 2023, and here we are. We made it! The world is slowly going back to normal and now we're looking to find a fast-heating and energy efficient, 400,000 BTU pool heater. Why?

🌍 Clean Energy Chainsaws

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Last Updated February 6, 2023

You'll find a lot of differing opinions on what the best electric chainsaw is. The reason is because there is no right answer. I know, this might...

💨 Prepare for the Worst

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

Last Update ► February 14, 2023

What's the Best Portable Power Station for a CPAP? If you're using a CPAP machine at night the last thing you want to worry about is having the power go in the middle of the night ---

🪑 For Work or Play

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Last Updated February 10, 2023

A good portable table saw can easily be had for under $1000, but you won't be able to find a quality cabinet saw for that amount. This guide will save you a lot of time.

🌿 Powerful String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

Last Update ► March 25, 2023

If you're interested in a true professional-grade cordless string trimmer then you need to seriously consider the Makita 40V model.

☄️Never Let the Power Die

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Last Update ► February 12, 2023

What's the best dual-fuel portable generator in 2023? Well, like the answer to most questions in life, my answer is, "It depends."

🔥 Affordable Log Splitters

Reviews of the Best Log Splitters under $1000 for Winter 2023/23

Reviews of the Best Log Splitters under $1000 for Winter 2023/23

Last Updated March 21, 2023

A log splitter is the evolution of the axe in the same way that cars are the evolution of horse drawn carriages. If you use a lot of firewood in the winter then investing in a high quality log splitter is probably a wise choice.

🌒 Whisper-Quiet Clean Power

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

Last Update ► March 6, 2023

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

💎 The Most for your Money

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money  / Top Value Models

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money / Top Value Models

Last Update ► March 10, 2023

We have a chainsaw for a wide range of applications and budgets. I know the needs of consumers vary and there's no such thing as the "best" chainsaw for everybody. Whether you have a budget of under $100 or over $300 to buy a PRO-grade chainsaw, I have options for you to consider.

🔋 Compare New Explorer PRO

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome to my review of the the Jackery Explorer 1000. Jackery stands out as one of the best manufacturers of portable battery power stations and solar generators.

🍀 Shred Yard Debris

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Last Updated February 22, 2023

What's the best chipper/shredder for 2023? Keeping your lawn neat, tidy and clean requires a lot of work and tools. A chipper/shredder is one of better ways to spend your money for your home, alongside of a generator, lawn mower and chainsaw.

🔥 Time to Split Firewood

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome! 2023 is a great year to buy a log splitter. New machines are here for us to discuss. The Swisher LS22E is one of the best 22-ton electric log splitters available today. You can see it above. It's a standout among the crowd of "me too" models. It's a 120V electric 22-ton splitter and works with any standard home outlet.

👩🏻‍🦰 Watch Out Trees!

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

Last Update ► March 16, 2023

The 460 Rancher is designed for homeowners, farmers and ranchers who have a need to fell large trees in a single cut (or two), to cut firewood or to harvest large timber.

🍂 Ergonomic Leaf Blower

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 4, 2023

I think you'll be surprised to learn that in 2023, reputable brands are making cordless backpack leaf blowers that are equal to, or more powerful than many gas backpack leaf blowers --- and they're cheaper.

🍰 Generator Sweet Spot

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Last Update ► January 24, 2023

As far as value, you won't find a better overall generator than this WGen7500 series from Westinghouse. For starters, Westinghouse has been in business since 1886 so they know how to make generators, among other things. For 2023, this is the best 7500 watt generator for homeowners looking for emergency backup power.

💡 The Power of 3 Fuels

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Last Update ► February 20, 2023

A tri-fuel generator is quite a novel concept. I’m sure not too many folks are aware they even exist. Hybrid generators have become common. Most of us know a bit about dual-fuel generators. These can run on propane or gasoline, making them very convenient. An obvious question, I’m sure many of you are asking has to be: What is a tri-fuel generator?

👷🏼 For DIY & Construction

Reviews : What’s the Best Jackhammer in 2023? Electric & Pneumatic

Reviews : What’s the Best Jackhammer in 2023? Electric & Pneumatic

Last Updated February 21, 2023

What's the Best Jackhammer for you? How much breaking force do you need? For work or for home? We cover a wide range of jackhammer's so you can choose the one that matches your needs (and budget)

🥾 Heavy-Duty Generators

Reviews : Best Jobsite Generators  — Buying Guide : OSHA / GFCI

Reviews : Best Jobsite Generators — Buying Guide : OSHA / GFCI

Last Updated March 1, 2023

2023 has been an incredible year for the portable generator market. The biggest brands have been releasing innovative new models at very competitive prices. The Champion PRO 100430 is a new commercial generator, packed with practical features you'll need if you're a contractor.

✨ Versatile Generator

2023 Reviews : Best 240 Volt Inverter Generators / New Models

2023 Reviews : Best 240 Volt Inverter Generators / New Models

Last Updated March 19, 2023

If you’re looking for a 240V inverter generator, it can be challenging. There simply aren’t too many on the market. This buying guide and review is the best place to begin your search for a 240V inverter generator.

Footer

DMCA.com Protection Status
  • Return to HOME
Do Not Sell My Personal Information

1199 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver, Canada
T: 604/437/8033

© 2014–2023 • Chainsaw Journal • Affiliate Disclaimer • —Stay Strong

  • This site contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase with our product links we may receive a small commission at NO COST TO YOU.(Learn More)