Ax/ wedge driving tool which one?

Arborist Forum

Help Support Arborist Forum:

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate links, including eBay, Amazon, and others.

B Harrison

ArboristSite Guru
Joined
Sep 19, 2012
Messages
652
Reaction score
86
Location
NC
I am sure there have been discussions in the past, but for sake of discussion now and because I am looking at a particular ax......

28" Fiskars splitting ax or other?

Is there a better option for the money for light splitting and wedge driving work, I held a x7 hatchet this weekend and don't care for the way the head sits in the handle, it looks weak and not a like a pro grade tool at all.
Would I be better off with just a wood handled ax for driving wedges?


Thanks ahead of time for any advice
 
Right now I am using a 4lb old Vaughn Sub Zero head on a 22~ish" ,haven't measured, handle and every now and again the small Bacho felling bar as my backup for knocking wedges.
It really doesn't matter what your smacky tool is as long it is heavy enough and the smacking surface is square.
I have looked at the Fiskars stuff and they are quality but don't have the feel I am looking for.
 
Well I have a fishers ax in my baileys cart, but I very well may just pick up an ax at the tractor supply.

Thanks
 
I have X 27; X 25 and X 7

27 gets the most use but I want to see what the 25 would be like also; The 27 is used in the wood's and the 25 is use at home great combo. The 7 is great for chopping kindling

Use to use regular axes all the time till I got my first Fiskar

This is what I used before and I still use it for falling

002-8.jpg
 
Those Fiskars heads aren't made for pounding. When driving wedges, I've found that heavier is better. That's why I use a synthetic handled 10 lb. sledge for pounding splitting wedges. Got it at Lowes, if I recall.
 
I have X 27; X 25 and X 7

27 gets the most use but I want to see what the 25 would be like also; The 27 is used in the wood's and the 25 is use at home great combo. The 7 is great for chopping kindling

Use to use regular axes all the time till I got my first Fiskar

This is what I used before and I still use it for falling

002-8.jpg

Whoops wrong thread :msp_ohmy:
 
I am talking about felling wedges and a tool to keep with me when felling trees.

Probably leaning towards a regular ax now.
 
A hardware store axe will do fine if you pay attention to the wood grain and are picky. (search the net regarding for illustrations how grain should run in tool handle) Sand off the clearcoat on the handle with 120 grit, wire wool smooth, and rub in some boiled linseed oil. It'll resist weather and reduce blisters. Get a straight handle if you can, more accurate.
A logger buddy of mine uses a sledge if he is working from off a skidder or wheeler. He's never had a problem, but the rounded face and shoulders could kiss off the plastic wedge wild or send the wedge flying.
Wrap the handle for 5 inches bellow where the axe head is hung with paracord, a little overstike protection. Keep an eye out at yard sales and flea markets for axe heads. Sometimes ya find old, high quality heads in heavier weights.
 
Back
Top