How to Split Firewood Efficiently

Next time a log doesn’t want to split, try this reader-submitted tip.

Photo by Fotolia/Alessandro Capuzzo

I have a great tip about how to split a large chunk of firewood using steel wedges, a chainsaw and a sledgehammer. This method is especially useful if the log doesn’t have any cracks (or “checks”) to put a steel splitting wedge into.

With your chainsaw, cut two shallow grooves — about 2 inches deep and parallel to each other — into the face of the log. Place a steel wedge into each groove and pound both in with a sledgehammer. Usually, the log will split readily.

Phil Wallace