The thread that won't die...
After several seasons with my 8 lb maul doing a number on my joints every year and absolutely wearing me out, I broke down and spent some coin on the Fiskar's axe. I haven't received it yet, but I'm leaving the 20 round of red oak on the ground until it gets here. I was pretty concerned about the safety aspect, but I reckon that following the tips that many have kindly provided, I should be able to manage the toe-chopping risk. That, and I'm still recovering from a minor shot to my shin from a wedge that went flying several nights ago, so accidents can happen with any splitting tool. Hopefully the SS lessens the need of needing to put the wedge into play...