Splitting Maul vs Splitting Axe: Which to Buy (Fiskars X27 vs X25 Included)

Both tools split wood rather than chop it, and both have a wedge-shaped head. The differences are weight, handle length, and what the back of the head is built to do.

The Key Difference: Weight and Wedges

The makers' own specs show the split. Gränsfors Bruk lists its splitting maul at 3.2 kg and its large splitting axe at 2.3 kg, both 70 to 80 cm long, and says the splitting axe "should not be used for striking a wedge." Husqvarna lists a hardened striking face on its splitting maul, and the maul's listing says it can be used with a splitting wedge, while Husqvarna's S2800 composite splitting axe has a hammer function for wedges but is not for steel wedges. The USDA Forest Service warns never to pound steel wedges with the poll of an ordinary single-bit axe.

Which Should You Buy?

Choose a splitting axe if you split mostly straight-grained, seasoned rounds and want a lighter tool you can swing more times. Choose a maul if your rounds are large or knotty, or if you want to drive a wedge through the ones that won't split. The University of Missouri Extension says a standard 8-pound splitting maul gives the best results for someone splitting under 10 cords a year. Many people own one of each.

Fiskars X27 vs X25

These are the same splitting axe design in two lengths, per their listings: the X27 is 36 inches, aimed at taller users and large logs, and the X25 is 28 inches, for medium to large logs. Both have a protective sheath and a lifetime warranty per the listings. A longer handle adds reach and swing speed; a shorter one is easier to control. If you're under average height or splitting smaller rounds, the X25 is the easier handle to manage.

Common Questions

Is a maul better than an axe for splitting?

For large or knotty rounds, the extra weight of a maul helps. For smaller, straight-grained wood, a lighter splitting axe is faster and less tiring.

Can I use a sledgehammer on a maul?

Follow the maker's instructions for your specific tool. A maul listed for use with a splitting wedge is meant to drive the wedge; that isn't the same as striking the maul itself.

Bottom Line

For most firewood, the Fiskars X27 (or X25 if you want a shorter handle). For big rounds and wedge work, a maul like the Fiskars IsoCore 8 lb or Husqvarna 32", plus an Estwing wedge. See our full splitting maul and axe guide, or our log splitter guide if you split a lot of wood.