How to Chop Wood

As many of us who reside in the country are aware, wood stoves and fireplaces are an economical as well as an efficient source of heating our homes. Although tedious and somewhat strenuous at times, acquiring and maintaining a sufficient wood pile is imperative if you want a steady source of heat throughout the long winter months. Chopping wood properly and safely is fairly simple if you have patience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Axe, Hatchet, Chopping Block, Storage Space, Sledge Hammer, Wedge

1. Begin by assembling a pile of logs. The size of your wood stove or fireplace will often dictate the maximum length your logs, ideally 16-18 inches.
   Select your first log, and place it squarely on the surface of your chopping block. Often times, one end of the log will be flatter than the other, try to situate your material so that it stands as close to 90 degrees as possible.
2. Placing your feet solidly underneath you in an athletic stance, with your left foot slightly in front of your right (vice versa for left handed people) place one hand at the end of the axe handle, and hold strong close to the axe head with your other. Slowly bring the axe back away from your hip, raise it in an arc so as to be over your right shoulder.
3. Keeping your eyes on the center of the log, simultaneously swing the axe head down squarely towards the center of the log while sliding your right hand toward the end of the axe handle where it firmly meets the left hand. A firm grip on the axe handle and a smooth arc towards the log will provide you the best results. Follow through as to force the axe head through the log and imbed itself in the chopping block.

Tips & Warnings

• Should you come across a knotty or solid piece, often the axe head will not penetrate the log fully. Should this happen, place the wedge into the crack made, and strike the head of the wedge several time with the sledge hammer. This should release the fixed axe head and either increase the split in the log or completely sever the log in two pieces. Repeat the procedure with the split pieces until you have the size of firewood that you require.
• Always ensure that you are aware of your surroundings, be patient and methodical.
• Often safety glasses, steel toed work boots, comfortable well fitting gloves, and loggers chaps should be worn to prevent injuries.
• Keep your area clear of split logs and other implements.