Make short work of your firewood with our pick of the best splitting axes and mauls

By Matt Breen

Published: Thursday, 14 December 2023 at 09:12 AM


Axes are all pretty much the same, right? Wrong. Different activities require different types of axe – and if you’re looking for one to efficiently split your firewood, you’ll need a splitting axe. This is sometimes also called a maul.

Read on below for more information on how to pick the right axe for you, and the difference between a splitting axe and a chopping axe.

Looking for log splitters? Take a look at our guide to the best manual and electronic devices to prepare winter firewood.

What size axe for splitting wood?

Splitting axes and mauls come in a range of sizes, too – from small, single-handed hatchet-sized options to long-handled models intended to be swung with both hands. The size you’ll pick will depend on the size and toughness of your wood. It may well be a wise idea to buy both a single- and double-handed option.

Here’s how to choose a splitting axe