The Best Splitting Maul to Make Splitting Wood a Breeze

Doing woodwork is no easy task, as it requires a whole lot of force, energy, and determination. We all know how challenging it is to chop or split wood.

But you don’t have to worry about that because there are splitting mauls you can use to make your wood-splitting task easier.

In this article, we’re going to show you the best splitting maul. For sure, this will help you a ton.

Why do you need to have a splitting maul?

1. Safer mauling

The number one reason why people buy a splitting maul is to make their wood-chopping work safer.

No one wants to cut off their hand accidentally. With the help of a splitting maul, you’re using something that promotes your safety.

Remember that these are specifically designed to maul down wood.

2. Improved productivity

In using a splitting maul, you are also speeding up whatever woodwork you’re doing. It makes you more productive, and you are able to split more wood than ever before.

3. Easier stake driving

When you split wood, it’s a well-known fact that driving your stake through the wood’s inner core is hard to do.

But with the help of a splitting maul, you don’t have to worry about that. Using a splitting maul on a log is comparable to how you slice butter effortlessly.

Best splitting mauls money can buy: My top 10 favorites

Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003 Maul – This splitting maul features a unique IsoCore Shock Control System that reduces shock and vibration by up to 2 times, making it more comfortable to use. It’s also excellent for splitting large logs.

Estwing Fireside Friend E3-FF4 Axe 14″ Wood Splitting Maul – With a forged steel construction and a 14-inch handle, this wood splitting axe is both durable and easy to handle.

INTERTOOL 35-inch Splitting Maul – This affordable Intertool splitting maul features a drop-forged high carbon steel head and a fiberglass handle for durability and strength.

TABOR TOOLS J55A Splitting Axe, Wood Splitting Maul – The balanced weight distribution of this wood splitting axe allows for efficient and effective splitting, while the fiberglass handle ensures comfort during use.

Gransfors Bruk Drake Off Road Tools Splitting Maul – Handmade in Sweden, this premium Gransfors Bruk splitting maul is crafted from top-quality materials and features an ergonomic handle for maximum comfort.

MAUL SPLITTING AX EYE – This traditional design splitting maul is perfect for those looking for an affordable option with a classic look and feel.

Performance Tool M7113 6-Pound Splitting Maul – With a heat-treated carbon steel head and a fiberglass handle, this lightweight splitting maul is both durable and comfortable to use.

Vulcan Maul Splitting – The tough alloy steel construction and comfortable rubber grip make this heavy-duty splitting maul ideal for larger jobs.

Truper 32415 12-Pound Splitting Maul – With a 12-pound head and a fiberglass handle, this powerful splitting maul is designed for heavy-duty splitting tasks.

1844 Helko Werk Germany 13573 Traditional Splitting Maul – This top-of-the-line splitting maul is handmade in Germany and features a premium ash handle and a high-carbon steel head for unparalleled balance and efficiency.

#1. Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003 Maul – Best overall

Manufactured by the famous brand of Fiskars and coming with a lifetime warranty, the Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003 is our top #1 maul for splitting wood.

The 36-inch handle and 8-pound maul head are nice configurations. These moderate numbers make sure the traditional splitting maul will suit the majority of users.

So if you have medium projects to complete and do not know which config is perfect for you, buying this wood-splitting maul is surely a safe option.

Moreover, the handle is designed with a patented technology named as Fiskars IsoCore Shock Control System. As the name infers, the handle of this Fiskars splitting maul can reduce vibrations and shocks dramatically, which eases your burden of splitting wood.

Additionally, the blade geometry is optimized to provide a means of penetrating more deeply than standard types.

Do you need some proof? Just take a look at the riveted head. This design will prevent the head from sliding down the handle.

We also consider the price of this wood-splitting maul when putting it to the top. It denies the saying that cheap things are never of high quality.

The value of the Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003 is worth three times its price!

#2. Estwing Fireside Friend E3-FF4 Axe 14″ Wood Splitting Maul – The runner-up

Don’t look down on the tiny size of the Estwing Axe Fireside Friend E3-FF4. This small maul is forged into only one piece, which is very durable and effective in splitting wood.

Take a look at the back of its head, and you can see the wood-splitting maul gains more weight thanks to a sledgehammer’s second head.

With just a little effort, you can chop through solid wood splitting block since the force from weight will make the head’s way through timber aggressively.

One more unique feature of this maul is the grip wrapped in genuine leather. When we held the maul in our hands, we had a great feeling of stability and assurance.

We love it when we swing the split wood maul maul up and down, back and forth, without worrying that the handle will slip from our hands or the head will fly anywhere else.

One significant contribution to the overall performance and longevity of this maul that we cannot ignore comes from the premium steel material.

Besides, the shiny blue finish and the protective sheath not only beautify but also fortify the maul.

#3. INTERTOOL 35-inch Splitting Maul – Best for precision

If you’re in the market for a heavy-duty splitting wood, the INTERTOOL 35-inch Splitting Maul could be just the tool you need.

With a five-pound wedged, convex grind head, this splitting maul delivers excellent striking force and control when splitting firewood.

Not only that, but the poll side of the tool can be used for splitting wedges, driving splitting wedges and stakes, making it a versatile tool for various outdoor tasks.

One of the most significant advantages of this INTERTOOL splitting maul is its sharpened carbon steel blade, which is sharp out of the box and reinforced with heat-treated steel.

Additionally, the head of this splitting maul is coated with an anti-corrosive coating to prevent rust and wear, making it a long-lasting investment.

Perhaps the most significant advantage of the INTERTOOL Splitting Maul is its shock-eliminating handle. Made from tough, lightweight fiberglass, this handle effectively absorbs impact shock, reducing user fatigue, and making it easier to use for extended periods.

Of course, no product is perfect, and the INTERTOOL 35-inch Splitting Maul is no exception. One potential disadvantage is that it is relatively heavy, which may make it challenging to use for extended periods or for those with less upper body strength.

Additionally, the blade protector included may not be the most robust, which could leave the blade vulnerable to damage during transport or storage.

#4. TABOR TOOLS J55A Splitting Axe, Wood Splitting Maul – Best budget

The TABOR TOOLS J55A offers a fiberglass handle, which delivers a fabulous mix between compactness and sturdiness. Plus, the grip is rubberized to minimize the level of slide and fatigue. We can wield the splitting maul flexibly, even without a pair of gloves.

The balance is also top-notch, ideal for novices and professionals nearly the same.

Overall, we appreciate the shock-absorbent, non-slip, and comfortable grip. It is well-designed from the length to the integrated features.

Unluckily, its head is a bit narrow, so you can hardly break a huge woodblock within one strike. The poll is actually decent, but it should be wider.

This head is equipped with wings, and you can feel the ease and effectiveness of the first swings. Although the steelhead is sustainable already, there is still an extra protective coating on it.

Besides, the finished edge of the cutting blade is fully polished. And after a time when the blade gradually becomes dull, you can resharpen it effortlessly with a file.

With a weight of over 8 pounds, you manage to convert this splitting maul into more gravity power and penetrate thick logs more deeply, which is proper compensation for the lack of head size.

#5. Gransfors Bruk Drake Off Road Tools Splitting Maul – Best for wedging

Similar to the TABOR TOOLS J55A, the Gransfors Bruk Drake Off Road Tools features a 32-inch handle. However, its head weighs only six pounds, so its balance seems to be inferior to its counterpart.

Anyway, the Gransfors Bruk splitting maul hickory wood handle provides quite a good feeling and is an option for those who prefer wood materials.

The manufacturer ground the blade into a concave shape to make it thinner and lighter than standard best splitting mauls on the market.

And although this Gransfors Bruk splitting maul is not a one-piece high-quality splitting maul, the head is forged with an extra steel collar to grip the wooden handle better. You don’t need to worry too much that one day the handle and the head will fall apart.

Look at the price tag, we know it might be too luxurious for most people, but you should know that it is backed with a 20-year warranty.

This warranty is not as impressive as a lifetime warranty, but it is long enough for you to trust a high-quality maul.

#6. MAUL SPLITTING AX EYE – Best lightweight splitting maul

The Maul Splitting Axe Eye is a reliable tool that is utilized for splitting logs, chopping wood, and other outdoor activities.

This tool is designed with forged steel, which provides exceptional strength and durability, making it an excellent option for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the primary advantages of using high-quality Maul Splitting Axe Eye is that it is lightweight and well-balanced, which makes it easy to handle and reduces fatigue when using it for extended periods.

Another significant benefit of using the good-splitting Maul Axe Eye is that it features a long handle that provides ample space for leverage and a firm grip, which enhances accuracy and safety.

Furthermore, the handle is crafted from sturdy materials that are resistant to weather elements, ensuring that it can last for many years.

However, one of the downsides of this product is that it requires more physical effort to use compared to a hydraulic log splitter. This could be a disadvantage, especially if you need to frequently split a significant amount of splitting logs.

It may also require maintenance to keep the cutting edge in prime condition. However, the advantages of using the heavy splitting maul Axe Eye heavily outweigh any cons.

#7. Performance Tool M7113 6-Pound Splitting Maul – Best for versatility

Crafted by the famous brand of Performance Tool, the M7113 is available in two weights, 6 pounds, and 8 pounds. As both of these versions are sold at a low price point, you can pick and buy two models of different weights for your different jobs.

The heavy-duty fiberglass handle is equipped with rubber cushion grips and is anti-shock, so no matter what weight, the right splitting maul is still easy to utilize.

The tapered blade is thoroughly honed so it can chop through the wood like a knife slices through butter and reduces the count of swings required to split a wedge or a round.

One point you need to notice is that there are negative reviews about the joint between the handle and the head breaking down after a long time of use.

Plus, the long 35-inch handle advances the momentum after each swing, enabling lumberjacks to split big chunks with minimum effort.

#8. Vulcan Maul Splitting – Best anti-slip handle

The Vulcan Maul Splitting is an excellent option for people searching for a high-quality tool for splitting wood.

This tool is made of fiberglass, making it very durable and strong. The sharpened edge offers easy cutting, meaning you can cut through wood faster than ever.

Moreover, the handle on this tool is designed to provide a good grip, making it easier for the user to handle it for a prolonged period of time.

One of the main advantages of the Vulcan Maul Splitting is its efficiency. This tool has been designed to split wood efficiently, which means you will be able to get more work done in less time.

Furthermore, the sharpened edge on the splitting wedge makes it easy to cut through the toughest of woods.

Another advantage of this tool is that it is much safer than using an axe. The wooden handle on most splitting axes can become slippery when wet, but with the Vulcan Maul Splitting, its fiberglass handle ensures that it has a good grip even when wet. 

As it is a heavy tool that requires a good amount of strength to swing, it may cause some difficulty for those who are not accustomed to handling such heavy tools.

Additionally, its price point is a little higher than other splitting mauls available in the market.

#9. Truper 32415 12-Pound Splitting Maul – Best short maul

Weighing approximately 15 pounds with a 12-pound head, the Truper 32415 is what serious users are seeking. It supplies a devastating power that only professionals who frequently have to tackle large chunks need.

It gets a rubber handle guard to protect your hands in case there are any overstrikes. The head features a sharp side to penetrate the wood and a blunt side to drive wedges and stakes into the ground.

Still, we found that the handle was too short with such a heavy head. As a result, it would be somewhat tricky for users to swing it effectively and create maximum power.

It is undeniable that it is a sturdy splitting maul. Maybe it is more advantageous for short people, and you should not swing it over your head to generate optimal force.

Most importantly, the splitting maul exceeds the ASME Standard B107.54M, which ensures the highest safety that other products rarely offer, even the Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003.

#10. 1844 Helko Werk Germany 13573 Traditional Splitting Maul – Best for durability

The 1844 Helko Werk Germany 13573 is strongly built and can split types of hardwoods such as oaks efficiently. Similarly, you can use the splitting maul to chop large rounds in a breeze.

The extra-long 35-inch handle (nearly as long as the Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003) delivers a lot of leverage force, allowing you to save effort in each strike.

The premium C45 carbon steel blade is smoothly tapered at the front, and its back is hefty and flat, which functions as a sledgehammer when you pound it onto the wood.

Besides, the splitting maul handle is constructed of Grade-A American hickory to enhance durability and strength. The smooth finishing of the grip facilitates users to feel more comfortable after long hours of splitting wood.

Last but not least, the extra features are also very noticeable. For instance, the handle is preserved using boiled linseed oil.

And the pack comes with a steel overstrike protector, a bottle of Axe-Guard protective oil, and a leather sheath.

Buying guide: What to consider when choosing the best splitting maul?

1. Weight

– Around 4 pounds: If you only need splitting kindling to make firewood for your home fireplace or the fire pit on your camping trip, these lightweight splitting mauls are very appropriate.

– Approx 8 pounds: This is the average weight for the majority of splitting mauls and will suit most casual users. 8-pound splitting mauls are typically robust enough for you to cleave logs that have a diameter of around 20 inches. Any bigger blocks of wood should require heavier splitting mauls.

– 12 pounds and above: Models that weigh over 12 pounds are only used for professional lumberjacks or those who need to spend all day long tackling huge logs. They will solve any tough and massive woodblock quickly and efficiently, but they also require users to have more strength.

2. Handle

You know, the handle of such a dangerous object should be slip-resistant and as gripping as possible. They should be comfortable so that your hand will not get fatigued and calluses after a long time of use.

Wooden handles are quite prevalent as they are fairly comfortable. However, they are heavy and likely to become rotted by dampness. Although they might break, they are replaceable.

Modern models come with handles constructed from composites such as fiberglass to be lighter yet still long-lasting. The best ones are also engineered to be anti-vibration and shock-proof. (e.g., the Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003 Maul​)

Unfortunately, these are irreplaceable, so you will have to buy a new splitting maul even if only the handle breaks down.

When it comes to the length of the handle, this depends on your height. Just try swinging your hands with several wooden rods of different lengths and find out what is the perfect length for yourself.

3. Balance

The balance of a maul relies on the ratio of its head’s weight to the handle length.

A balanced maul will provide a means of gaining more kinetic energy to save you effort in splitting woods. This factor mainly depends on the materials, the shape, the design, and the craftsmanship in making the splitting maul.

Therefore, while you cannot touch the splitting maul yet to know exactly how it feels in real life, you can look at the appearance and information of products, read their reviews and find a reputable brand to trust.

4. Forged or socket

How the head and the handle are connected is critical. If they are forged into only one piece, the splitting maul will be more durable, safer, and easier to use. The head will never fly out from the handle, no matter how hard and how long you have used it.

Meanwhile, if the splitting maul’s head is joined with the handle by a socket, it will become loosened over time.

When these two parts become too loose, the head may fly out from the handle and cause accidents. They will also never be attached to each other as tightly as at first.

5. The wedge

The wedge of a maul should neither be too sharp as an traditional axe nor too dull. You can imagine that a maul with an over-dull wedge will bounce off the wood surface just like a hammer.

Besides, big wedges will cover more surfaces and help you split more wood simultaneously. Nevertheless, notice that larger wedges must be more cumbersome.

FAQs

Is a maul or axe better for splitting wood?

The head of splitting mauls features blunt edges that easily create cracks in the wood, and its V-shaped part is perfect for splitting the wood.

Meanwhile, the head of the axes is sharper and creates small, sharp chips when they hit the wood. Hence, they are more suitable for cutting wood than splitting wood.

Also, splitting mauls are heavier and have a more extended handle than splitting axes typically, so using them to split logs will be safer and more effective.

In general, we can say that if you want to compare splitting axe vs. traditional splitting maul, a standard maul is even better at splitting wood than the best splitting axe.

What size splitting maul do i need?

The size of the splitting maul needed depends on the user’s height and strength. A maul with a handle length of 24-36 inches is suitable for most users.

What is the best weight for a splitting maul?

As we explained the different weights of splitting mauls in the buying guide section, each of them is best for various purposes, depending on the volume of wood you have to handle.

So as a general rule, we suggest the average option – eight-pound splitting mauls as the best weight. Wood splitting mauls are strong enough to help you complete most tasks while they are not too heavy and overwhelm your body.

Our top 1 choice – Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003 Maul also has an 8-pound head.

What is the best shape for a splitting maul?

The best shape for a splitting maul is a wedge shape, which helps to split the log or wood.

Should a splitting maul be sharp?

A splitting maul ought to be sharp at a moderate level. If the edge of the splitting maul is too blunt, it is prone to bounce off the wood when they come in contact, just like you hit the wood with a hammer.

Nonetheless, as you use a maul to split wood but not cut the trees down, it should not be so sharp as an axe.

How to replace a splitting maul handle?

To replace a splitting maul handle, first remove the old handle and sand the eye of the maul. Then, apply wood glue to the eye and insert the new handle.

Finally, secure the handle with wedges and allow it to dry completely before using the maul again.

Final words

All in all, if you want a quick decision, you can buy the Fiskars IsoCore 751110-1003 Maul.

From our point of view, this Fiskars product is the best splitting maul due to its excellent design, superior performance, comprehensive configurations, and low price.

If you need to find a product that suits your specific job, you can depend on our buying guide and make comparisons. Hopefully, you will find the right one!