HOW TO USE A SPLITTING MAUL

A splitting maul is also know as a block splitter, block buster, go-devil or sledge axe(this is because one side of its head is like a sledge hammer and the other side is like an axe). You may wonder what benefits can you get when you use a splitting maul;- First for those who aren't able to exercise their bodies as they want. Using a splitting maul gets you the exercise you need to get rid of those calories. -Second, when you use chainsaws or other splitting machines they do breakdown. A splitting maul however doesn't fail so easily. -Third, for those nature lovers and those out of touch with nature, a splitting maul keeps you in touch with nature, since you aren't using machines.
Like any other tools you might use you need to use caution. First, check to see if there is a crack in the wood since cracks in wood make it easier to split wood. Second, if there's a knot split the wood on the opposite side of the knot where there isn't a knot. Lastly, split the wood as soon as you fell the trees since smaller pieces of wood dry much faster.

Firstly, cut the firewood at the end of each piece flat and square, so the piece of wood is stable when placed on the chopping board or stamp. The stamp shouldn't be to tall or to short , a glancing blow will critically hurt you

Secondly, check the wood for cracks so you can aim for this position to make splitting wood easier.
Thirdly,the place you choose to split the maul is important. Stand with the maul placed on that place and square your feet.
Fourthly, when the grain isn't so obvious, make an indentation in the wood, you can have a visual cue to help guide your axe.
When holding the maul, hold the handle using your non-dominant hand (non-writing) firmly, using your dominant hand cradle the axe just below its head. Flexing you knees (slightly), lift the maul head above your head, keeping your arms straight.-Using your strong hand slide your hand down til their close, grip thearm end, then letting gravity do the heavy lifting, flicking your wrists,bring your hands down
Remember splitting requires the use of the correct technique more than it needs strength. You don't swing a maul wildly because it's exhausting and dangerous.
If the wood does not split on the first strike, remove the axe bit out of the wood. It can be energy wasting to remove the axe, so you can utilize the stuck maul like a splitting wedge and hit the sledge end with a sledge.
Split the wood to the correct size and stack the wood to let air circulate through it to allow the wood to season before using it to burn in a fireplace.