If you’re still wondering what size maul is right for you or how a maul differs from an axe, then read on for answers to these and other common questions about mauls.

A leather sheath protects the blade while preventing cuts when the maul is not in use. A flat side on the back of the head functions as a sledgehammer or as a surface to strike a splitting wedge. Though the hickory wood handle lacks the soft rubber grips of other mauls, it provides superior strength that resists breaking and absorbs a sufficient amount of shock. The most noticeable characteristic of this formidable maul is its forged steel head, which at 12 inches and 6 pounds is capable of splitting medium-size logs. So it’s no surprise that the company’s 32-inch wooden splitting maul is one of the best on the market. When it comes to cutting through trees, Husqvarna-known for its high-end chainsaw-is a brand to trust. All of these mauls are worthy tools for splitting firewood. The products below take into account the above considerations to narrow the field to some of the best mauls in their class. Other maul handles are made from hardwoods such as hickory-not quite as durable as steel but lighter and good at absorbing shock. Steel handles are very durable but transfer significant shock to the operator that’s why some mauls use a mix of steel and fiberglass to dull the shock of impacts. Maul handles, however, can be made of a variety of materials. Most maul heads are made of forged steel to endure repeated hard impacts, whether splitting wood with the sharp side or pounding a metal wedge with the flat side. This means that the head must be hard enough to resist breaking or dulling during use, while the handle must hold up to repeated impact. Splitting mauls must be able to endure the rigors of chopping through logs. Some mauls also use soft rubber to enhance grip while absorbing shock. Most maul handles have a tapered end, which prevents the maul from sliding out of the user’s hands. Shorter, one-handed mauls for camping and light use have 14-inch handles. Most splitting mauls have a handle length of 32 inches or so, though larger mauls have handles as long as 36 inches.

A maul with a longer handle generates more force with each swing, which translates to better cutting power. Handle length also determines how powerful a maul is. An 8-pound maul is capable of splitting a good-sized log while remaining light enough for most people. Maul heads weigh between 4 and 12 pounds, and while a heavier maul might technically split wood better, the person wielding it must be able to safely lift and swing it with accuracy.Ī 4-pound maul is a good option for splitting smaller lumber for a backyard fire pit or a camping trip, while a 12-pound maul is suitable for splitting large logs. When wielding a splitting maul, its weight will determine just how easily you can split wood. Ahead, learn how these two factors affect performance and discover what materials make for a durable maul. The weight of the splitting head and length of the handle largely determine how capably a maul can split wood. Photo: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Splitting Maul

Estwing fireside friend sheath