How To Split Logs Without An Axe – 8 Methods

Everyone knows the best way to split logs is to use an axe. But it would be tough to find a person who hasn’t found himself without an axe when some logs needed to be split. Maybe you don’t have an axe, or maybe the axe you own isn’t sharp enough. Does that mean you can’t split your logs?

Absolutely not. There are genuinely effective ways to split logs, even when you don’t have a sharp axe lying around. So, today we’ll be discussing how to split logs without an axe.

How to Split Logs Without an Axe – Here’s the 8 Methods

I’ll introduce you to some innovative ways to split logs today. You can be sure that you won’t regret learning these methods. You can go for the one that seems most suitable for you in that particular situation.

1. Hydraulic Log Splitter

If you are always splitting logs, consider a commercial unit. It may cost you a handsome amount of money, but the work it can do is extraordinary.

A hydraulic log splitter uses a hydraulic cylinder to force a wedge through the log you need to split. You can get different varieties with this machine. It comes in different sizes, and you can also choose between a manual and an electric one.

Read: Difference Between A Hatchet And An Axe – Everything You Need To Know

This option is only beneficial for those who are willing to spend a large amount of money on their log splitter unit. If you are not one of them, there are always better alternatives available for you that cost less.

2. Table Saw

If you own a table saw, there can’t be a better option than using it for splitting logs. Even though it sounds like cheating, you can give it a try. If your axe is blunt, use it to break the logs into pieces, and the table saw can assist you in splitting the logs’ middle parts.

Make sure to be extra cautious when using the tool. You don’t want your fingers to go through the saw. Also, when forcing the log through the saw, it can turn to you too. So, be safe while doing the job.

I don’t recommend getting a table saw only for splitting logs. This method is suitable only if you already own a table saw. It’s not the safest one to use either. So, if you already have a table saw and you don’t have an axe at that moment, you can use the unit as a temporary solution.

It’s not recommended to use if you’re a beginner at splitting logs either.

3. Fixed Blade Knife

If you don’t intend to spend money on your log splitter at all, there’s always a way to utilize the tool at home. No one can say that they don’t own a fixed blade knife.

So, how can you split a log using a knife? First, you need to create a groove on top of the log. Then, place the knife on the groove, and use a hammer, or piece of wood to press the knife into the log.

It’s better to use the portion of the knife closer to the handle. Using a knife will allow you to cut the logs into thinner pieces. This method is so convenient because you can even utilize your army knife for the process.

Again, don’t forget to maintain the utmost safety when doing it. This method can be the best way of splitting wood by hand if you can pull this off.

4. Auger Splitter

You can also get an auger splitter for yourself. It’s a larger version of a screw with a wider body. When connected to a motor, it allows you to split logs by working as a splitting wedge.

Auger splitters can be costly if you’re getting the whole deal. On the contrary, if you already own a motor and only need to buy the head, it can be a viable option for you.

5. Wedge and Hammer

This is one of the cheapest wood splitting tricks. As you can guess, you don’t need to spend any money while splitting logs using this method. But, how to split logs with a wedge and a hammer? Let’s find out.

Take a wedge and use the hammer to push it into the log. As the wedge enters the log, the wood gets cut.

Even though this method doesn’t cost you anything, it’s a rather slow process. It may take you a lot of time to split the logs. So, if the number of logs you want to split is high, I wouldn’t recommend going for this method.

6. Smart Splitter

You can also get a smart splitter for logs. This machine utilizes weight to put force on the logs and split them. Even though it’s one of the safest ways to split logs, the process is comparatively slower than others. So, if you need quicker methods, I recommend avoiding this option.

7. LeverAxe

LeverAxe is another effective alternative to traditional axes. It can make your job a lot easier with its wider wedge. Unlike traditional axes that require you to put pressure from a higher position, LeverAxe can work its way from two feet up.

However, it’s another expensive option to consider. So, if you want to save money, this isn’t the tool for you. But rest assured, even though it comes at a high price, it’s well worth the money.

8. Log Splitter

You can get a log splitter to make things quicker and easier. These machines are industry-level, but you can also get one for your home. The units designed for home uses are comparatively less pricey than the industrial ones.

Industry-scale log splitter runs on gas. They’re super-efficient and work like magic. Unlike traditional axes, these machines won’t cause you back pain. You can split a large number of logs almost effortlessly.

However, the price is the downside that prevents everyone from owning a gas log splitter. Not everyone is going to spend thousands of dollars on a log splitter machine.

Also read: What Kind Of Simple Machine Is An Axe Head? [With Examples]

Nonetheless, you can get a cheaper version of these machines. Log splitters that are designed for home use are a lot cheaper. These machines run on electricity which saves money.

They’ll come in a few hundred bucks. However, they might not be as effective as the splitters that run on gas. They’re still efficient enough for home use. You can easily split a big load of logs without any physical labor.  

So, if you have loads of logs to split, I recommend considering a log splitter. Or, you can check if someone is renting one for a short period.

Other Ways to Split Logs

If none of the tools solved your problem, you could approach the issue from a few other angles. Try the following solutions if your logs need to be split and don’t own an axe.

• You can always borrow one from someone living near you if you are out of an ax temporarily.
• If you have a blunt axe, consider sharpening it. If professional sharpening isn’t available at that moment, you can sharpen it by yourself.
• If you split logs continuously, it’s better to replace your blunt axe, sharpen it, or get a new one if you don’t own one.
• You can hire people for splitting logs if it’s a one-time thing. They’ll carry the tools required for the job, so you won’t have to own an axe.
• A kindling cracker is also an efficient tool for splitting logs.
• You can also use a splitting maul.
• You can create a DIY counterbalanced splitter for the logs. Use a maul head to set it on a counterbalance frame. The amount of force you put will be multiplied, and it will be convenient to split logs.  

Tips for Splitting Logs

• Use proper outfits, shoes, and protective glasses when splitting logs.
• Keep safety equipment nearby.
• Don’t waste any time wondering if you’ve hurt yourself or anyone else during the process. Seek medical assistance right away.
• Not all woods are easy to cut. Some of them are more durable and require more effort. Choose the proper logs if you want to cut them without any difficulties.
• Use heavy trousers if you’re worried about flying debris hurting you.
• Either use a wood piece or wet soil below the log you’re splitting.
• Know where to hit your log to get a clean cut.
• Don’t expect your logs to be easy to cut on the first try. Precision requires practice and expertise.
• Don’t let anyone stand next to you when splitting logs to avoid injury.
• Only split suitable logs. Avoid splitting logs that have nails on them or are curvy.
• If you need all the logs split, including the ones that have nails in them, remove the nails before splitting the logs.  
• If you’re confused about any tool, you’re using to split logs, do thorough research to understand the mechanism.
• Make sure to use the correct tools. If you’re using an axe, it should be sharp enough to split the logs without any issues.
• If you decide to buy a tool for splitting woods, ask someone who has already used that tool. It’s a great way to be sure of the decision you’re making. If someone you know owns that tool, don’t be hesitant to try it out.  

FAQ

Final Verdict

Note that none of these methods will be effective if you’re not experienced enough for splitting logs. If you’re used to a regular axe, learning how to split logs without an axe can spice things up a notch. You can enjoy some extra benefits with the methods I mentioned that you can’t get with an axe.

No matter which tool you go for, it’s crucial to keep yourself safe. Don’t use the tool if you’re not confident enough. And unless you will be doing heavy splitting, avoid spending a lot of money on a single tool.

Learn more:

• Will Polyurethane Keep Wood From Cracking?
• How To Use A Brush Axe? (The Beginner’s Guide)
• What Is A Broad Axe Used For? (Structure, History & Uses)
• What To Wear Axe Throwing [5 Unwritten Guidelines]