The 10 Best Wood Splitting Axes

It may not be the strongest or the most beautiful option out there, but the best-selling Fiskars x27 Super 36-Inch (appx. $53) is still one of the most functional models around. It has everything you'd want, including an outstanding power-to-weight ratio.

Whether you're chopping down saplings or breaking up hunks of oak, you'll be glad you had the Estwing Camper's E45A (around $39) by your side. It's basically an elongated version of the company's hugely popular camping hatchet, and you can be sure it performs just as well.

This popular forest equipment manufacturer offers a range of capable axes and mauls, but the Husqvarna S2800 27" Composite (appx. $95) might be the best for most people. Its fiberglass handle keeps it fairly lightweight, while its head geometry maximizes its cutting power.

When you need to split a large quantity of firewood fast, turn to the Helko Werk Vario 2000 (appx. $175). The head alone on this German-made model weighs in at a whopping 6.7 pounds and boasts an ergonomic design that makes quick work of any size of log you put in front of it.

Thanks to a head that features a very thin edge that widens out to a thick wedge, the Gransfors Bruk 450 Maul (about $215) is able to drive through even the toughest and knottiest of wood with ease. Plus, the end opposite the blade is squared, so you can pound nails with it, too.

Hand-forged from Swedish steel, the Hultafors Classic Hunting 850G (around $130) works as beautifully as it looks. It has a real hickory wood staff that feels good in the hand, as well as a clear tempered zone along the blade that allows you to get a truly sharp edge.

With a weighted wedge and an economical 14-inch length, the Estwing Fireside Friend (about $29) smartly marries the power of a splitting maul with the portability of a hatchet. Like its name suggests, it's perfect for campouts, since you can chop away without ever having to get up.

From a leading name in knives comes the Gerber 36-Inch Power (about $70), a powerful fiberglass model that, when used correctly, can split even large logs with a single swipe. It's the company's largest axe available, but it still manages to be surprisingly lightweight.

Don't set out on your next back-country expedition without the Cold Steel CS90TA-BRK Trail Boss (around $28). This highly versatile tool can be used for everything from clearing brush to chopping logs for the fire, and at 26 inches long, it's compact enough to strap to a pack.

The Mintcraft Pro 34004 (around $47) represents a modern take on the classic maul, featuring a sleek fiberglass handle where you might normally find a wooden one. That upgrade adds to its overall durability, though traditionalists might prefer the look and feel of the latter.