In yards, sheds and garages across America lie heaps of firewood patiently waiting to be hewn.
The tools of the trade? For most of us, whatever axe was on sale at the hardware store.
Unfortunately, aimless purchases do not normally last a lifetime. (Case in point, your correspondent recently splintered his girlfriend’s father’s hatchet before his very eyes while attempting to curry favor.)
Below, you’ll find eight of the best wood-chopping tools for when the same happens to your cleaver. With choices spanning the spectrum from kid-friendly to horror movie, feel free to supplement your setup now.
For a new classic: Elmer Roush Pack Axe
Looks like your everyday swinger, but made by the Vietnam vet behind CRKT’s most coveted axes.
For the whole family: Kindling Cracker
A solid piece of cast iron that’s much safer and requires minimal maintenance.
For a party trick: Stikkan Kindling Maker
Think of it as a large-scale paper cutter. Mount on the wall and pull the cutting wedge down.
For a lifetime: Pulaski Axe
The carbon steel cutter mattock head combines an axe with a rounded adze.
For a heck of a bargain: Fireside Friend
You’re not gonna hang this tried-and-true Estwing on the wall, but it’ll get the job done.
For Swedish craftsmanship: Wildlife Hatchet
This Gränsfors Bruks is delivered as sharp as they come, with a 20-year warranty.
For raw power: IsoCore 8-lb Maul
Shock control allows you to chop stumps and drive wedges without beating yourself up.
For carrying along: Small Axe With Fire Starter
This lightweight number from Schrade features a hammer pommel and in-handle fire starter.
Nota bene: If you buy through these links, InsideHook may earn a small share of the profits on some items.
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