The 10 Best Log Splitter Wedges

A collection of highly refined design elements, the Halder Simplex (about $62) is among the most effective for amateur and pro loggers alike. Though even more expensive than many mauls, this is likely the last wedge you'll ever have to buy.

More than just an angled hunk of metal, the Estwing Sure Split (appx. $14) features clean lines and quality construction, a center groove to prevent binding, and offset fins that keep the action going, even after the tool has sunk below the top of the log.

Probably a more luxurious wedge than we've ever imagined, the Helko Werk Handforged (appx. $72) brings exceptional German craftsmanship to any toolbox or woodshed. Though it's quite a bit more costly than average, it's built of the absolute highest quality materials.

A combination of multiple, well-known simple machines, the Sylvan Arms Cone Driver (appx. $50) takes the hammering and sweating out of this traditionally back-breaking task. Just get it started in an existing crack or predrilled hole and let mechanical advantage do the work.

Designed for increased safety and ease of use over traditional choices, the Inertia Cast-Iron (about $69) supports and stabilizes the wood in question, eliminating the worry and hassle that come with the more common types when they bind up or pop out.

Made with a remarkable simplicity, the Ludell High-Grade (about $21) is four pounds of durable steel that tapers to a reasonably sharp point. It's not the most efficient for extra-large jobs or lumber, but for occasional use, it's hard to beat.

There's no lumberjack like a Swedish lumberjack, and this handcrafted model from Hults Bruk (about $84) embodies the ancient Scandinavian tradition of working trees with style. The edge is hand-tempered, like the Viking swords of old, delivering unmatched sharpness and strength.

Carefully engineered from a shatter-resistant aluminum alloy, the Muller Twisted (about $50) is portable enough to take into the woods, without overloading on gear. It utilizes a screw-like, half-threaded design to deliver massive amounts of multidirectional force.

While traditional models usually result in two opposing pieces of lumber, the Collins Diamond (around $19) often blasts timber into 3 or 4 smaller chunks with just one, high-octane sledgehammer hit. Take care to be accurate, though, and avoid rounding off the top with off-center blows.

If you're uninterested in swinging heavy objects around just to make kindling, the Logosol Smart (about $90) is worth a look. It screws into place and utilizes a weight affixed to a vertical shaft, rather than a handheld maul, making it one of the safer options.