How To Use A Hatchet To Make Kindling [6 Steps Guide]

Most people prefer using a hatchet to make their kindling. However, if you’re a beginner at splitting logs, it’s better to be thorough about the process before getting started. Many people injure themselves during the process due to a lack of information.

That’s why today’s discussion is about how to use a hatchet to make kindling. I’ll be describing one particular method that reduces the chances of accidents and increases efficiency.

How to Use a Hatchet to Make Kindling – Step by Step

There are multiple techniques for making kindling. However, I am only describing one technique that’s safest, in my opinion. The method is called contact splitting.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Logs

Note that not all logs are equally convenient to split. If you are a beginner, it’s better to start with easier logs. Choosing stubborn wood at the beginning can lead to a bad experience.

So, what makes a log suitable for making kindling? The first rule is to go for dry woods. The drier logs are, the easier they’ll be to split.

Some other features to look out for are no knots, density, and straight grain. These features help you split the logs with ease.

As for what to avoid, watch out for green, gnarled, and old wood types. They are the most difficult to split. Also, you won’t be able to make kindling with them using a hatchet.

Step 2: Choosing a Proper Place

Even though the method I am explaining is comparatively a lot safer than other methods, you still need to select a suitable surface. Make sure the place you’re splitting woods is even and sturdy enough.

Going for a vulnerable surface will not prove to be a smart decision.

Step 3: Positioning

Take a piece of wood and keep it on the ground. The wood should have a diameter of around three inches and a length of around sixteen to twenty-four inches. Logs of these measurements will be the most convenient to split using a hatchet.

No, take your hatchet and place it on top of the wood in a way. So that the blade is pushed on one end of the wood. The other end of the wood should be in contact with the end of the axe handle.

To demonstrate a more visual picture, you should have a triangle made with the axe and the wood.

Step 4: Splitting the Log

Once you secure the position, hold the end with the axe handle. Grip both the wood and the handle and then lift them up. Hardly slam the wood on the surface to allow the axe blade to cut through the log while splitting it.

Step 5: Repeat the Process

You will split the wood into two pieces after performing step 4. Now, take one of these pieces and repeat the entire process to split that into two pieces. Keep repeating the procedure until you reach a thickness you are satisfied with.

Step 6: Store Your Kindling

After you’re done with the entire process, gather the kindling and keep them separate from any extra pieces of wood. Make sure there are no debris or nails on the pieces. Store them in a clean and dry place until using them.

Alternative Methods

There are, of course, other ways you can swing your hatchet to make kindling. However, I am mentioning the standard way of splitting logs in case you don’t like the method I described.

Standard Splitting

You can use the hatchet like you would use your axe or maul to split logs. Find a clean log and make it stand on even ground. The log should stand as stable as possible.

Raise your hatchet over your head, force your strength onto the hatchet and slam it on top of the log.

This method is comparatively less safe for beginners because it’s easy to get hurt. So practice maximum caution when using this method to make kindling.

Why Use a Hatched to Make Kindling?

If you don’t know why we split wood, let me tell you that first. When you split logs, it creates rough angles on the pieces. These pieces burn better.

Ideally, people use heavier mauls for splitting wood. But why hatchets? That’s because hatchets are convenient to carry due to their lightweight nature.

Mauls are fine when you’re splitting logs at home. But when you’re camping outdoors, carrying a hatchet will be way more practical than carrying a heavy maul.

So, learning how to make kindling with a hatchet will certainly open some more doors of convenience in your day-to-day life.

Hatchet Safety Measures

• Wear safety goggles while using a hatchet
• Avoid using a blunt hatchet
• Don’t make kindling in a crowded area
• Make sure that the hatched blade isn’t loose
• Ask for help if needed
• Store the hatchet in a safe place after you’re done

FAQ

Final Verdict

You will be missing your hatchet one of the potential if you don’t know how to use a hatchet to make kindling. There’s no need to spend on a maul if you own a hatchet. As long as you’re following a safe procedure, you can rest assured that you will get your job done without any hassle.

Learn more:

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