So i got a nex axe.
 

Fiskars 36" 4.3 lb head splitting axe. Wow is all i can say. If you guys need an ax for splitting the bigger stuff i highly recommend it. I split a very large maple piece that i couldn't split this past summer. The first whack bounced off the top the second split it in two. It was about 24" across. Its the perfect balance between axe and maul, it wont kill you swinging it and has the splitting power of a maul. I also have the smaller version that i have been using for 10 years and its still sharp enough to cut through leather gloves if you run your finger over it fast. Either of em make great gifts for someone that burns.

PIEMMA splits two cords a week using his bare hands.

-spence

I,ve had a 10lb splitter for 20 years , paul still can out split me
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

I wreck a maul every year by missing the friggin log and cracking the handle, never fails. Big logs get wedges. I am not too big and easier on my tired body. I'll take a look at them . thanks

Its 36" long, might be a little long for you im not sure.

It is more technique than strength. The little twist as it hits is what splits the wood.

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o...e/Mauls005.jpg

sotz monster maul, bought it in 1976, will split anything, handle won't break, head won't fly off

I have this one too. Friggin mauler. you spend a few hours with that, your good.

Sotz is no longer in business..however..Northern Tool has a similar item.. does not look like the 33degree angle the sotz has on its face, is a little lighter as well

Truper Axes — 12-Lb. Splitting Maul w/Steel Handle | Logging Accessories | Northern Tool + Equipment

the Sotz MM is heavy at 15 pounds, but well balanced, and once you get the rythm of the swing down, it is a pleasure to use, you really don't have to kill yourself with it, just learn to use the "beef" of it, to do the job.

I did pick up a gas splitter last year for a song, all in all, I don't think that is a time saver, and you still are muckling the big chunks around, so still a workout.
Still haul out the Sotz to get the real big peices I get to a managable size.

If anybody wants to borrow mine to try it. I'll lend it out for some wood.
I will be getting a deck pit this winter.

I'll make one

Paul, if you want to use mine as a working blueprint, let me know :wave:

Those will give you big arms. A nice 6# with a little twist will split over 90% of your wood with ease, as long as you have decent firewood(ease of splitting is a big part). Save the big pieces for a couple of years and borrow a wood splitter for a few hours. I spent 25 years doing 6-8 cords of hard labor. I always liked to cut the tree down, cut it up, stand them up, split them, load them in the truck. Some of the big pieces with giant knots are still sitting in the woods. They'll turn back into trees eventually.

HAHAHA...He does...I've seen him in action...:rotf2:Now that's funny Spence.

Try searching for an OREGON MALL ,well worth the find.