Top 10 best splitting axes according to Knivesandtools

The Hultafors KLY 7-1.5 splitting axe has been one of the most popular splitting axes for years. Simple in terms of design, and very effective. No unnecessary frills. The axe head is forged from Swedish axe steel. The handle is made from American Hickory wood. This wood is exceptional in absorbing blows without breaking. Hultafors has been developing sustainable tools for craftsmen for over 130 years. Products to rely on.

Pros:

• Simple and effective design.
• Top-quality materials such as Swedish steel and American hickory wood.

Something to take into account:

• This axe comes without sheath.

The Fiskars X27 is, with a total length of 91.5 cm, the the longest splitting axe in this list. Made to effectively split medium-sized and heavy tree trunks or firewood. The Finnish Fiskars uses modern materials and production techniques. The X27 is a great example. It is an updated version of the traditional splitting axe with its wooden handle. The fibreglass reinforced plastic FiberComp handle is stronger than a handle that is merely made from wood. This material can also handle external influences. Think of decay and mould caused by moisture.

Pros:

• Rock-solid and corrosion resistant FiberComp handle.
• Plastic sheath with lock.

Something to take into account:

• Because of its size it is not suited for everyone.

The Fiskars Norden N12 is a stylish, compact splitting axe. Suited to split smaller logs with a diameter of up to 20 cm. The Norden collection is characterized by the two-piece handle. Made from a hickory wood and FiberComp construction. This innovative construction reduces vibrations if you miss. As such you have the 'feeling' and classic look of the wood, with the modern twist/quality Fiskars is known for. The best of both worlds!

Pros:

• Great for small tasks around the house. Like chopping kindling.
• Stylish and modern design.

Something to take into account:

• Not suited to split larger logs.

This Ochsenkopf Big Ox is a hefty axe. Its heavy 3 kg head makes for a devastating impact as soon as it hits the block. While a splitting axe doesn't generally have to rely on its sharpness, this axe is razor-sharp. The edge is even polished!

Advantages:

• With striking surface for striking a wedge.

• With overstrike guard that protects the handle in case of misses.

Something to take into account:

• Due to its heavy weight and large size, not suitable for everyone.

The Fiskars Safe-T X39 is a large splitting axe. With a total weight of 3000 grams, it is the heaviest from the list. With this axe you can effortlessly cut large logs. The unique aspect of this splitting axe is the axe head which is also enhanced with a polymer head. The head is also slightly curved. This 'hook' helps you move logs. The long handle of the Safe-T X39 gives the axe head extra speed and helps to split the wood smoothly.

Pros:

• Because of its weight and size it is great when splitting large logs.
• Multi-functional axe head.

Something to take into account:

• Because of its weight and size it is not suited for everyone.

This Müller Biber Dynam-ax splitting axe has a well-thought-out design. The head is attached to the handle with a screw, creating a very small amount of leeway. This sounds like a bad idea with an axe, but in the case of this Dynam-ax it actually ensures that blows are absorbed.

Advantages:

• Wide wedge in the axe head that pushes the wood apart.
• Leather sheath included.

Something to take into account:

• Heavy axe, which can take some getting used to.

The WOOX Forte is a slightly smaller splitting axe. With a 1000-gram head, it gives a bit less striking power than other axes in this list, but is a lot more convenient and easier to take with you on a camping trip, for example.

Advantages:

• Easy-to-replace handle.
• Leather sheath included.

Something to take into account:

• Somewhat less striking power due to lighter head.

The Ochsenkopf Spalt-Fix splitting axe is a large splitting axe with an axe head of no less than 2500 grams. The axe head is forged from C60 steel. This steel is characterized by its toughness and long life. The handle is made from ash wood. The Ochsenkopf axes represent perfection and safety ever since 1781. That is a very long time! This experience in the axe world is used to produce some of the best axes in the world. That is why this Ochsenkopf axe deserves a spot in this list.

Pros:

• Because of its weight and size it is great when splitting large logs.
• Leather sheath to protect the edge.

Something to take into account:

• Because of its weight and size it is not suited for everyone.

The Estwing Fireside Friend Splitting Tool is very compact and packs a punch! Despite its size it only weighs 2000 grams. While you usually use two hands to control a splitting axe, you can easily use one hand for this Estwing axe. It was specifically designed to split kindling for a campfire. Estwing axes have a unique position. These axes are known in the United States as the world's first, best and, in the eye of most, the only massive forged axes. This means that the axe head and handle are forged from one piece of steel. There is no wooden handle that can break or needs to be maintained.

Pros:

• Robust construction forged from one piece of steel.
• Because of its compact size you can easily take it with you when you go camping.

Something to take into account:

• Not suited to split larger logs.

This Fiskars X11 is a light splitting axe. As such, it's easy to use for everyone. In addition, its light weight means you can even use it with one hand! It is also nice and easy to carry around.

Advantages:

• Strong, glass fibre reinforced plastic handle.

• Coated head, making it easier to remove from wood.

Something to take into account

• The handle is quite slim; less suitable for someone with large hands.