Froe
I don't know how many CT readers spend much time splitting wood to make kindling for their fireplace or wood stove. But when I think of tools that I love, this one is near the top of the list.
Most folks will tell you that the way to make little sticks (kindling) out of big sticks (chunks of firewood) is to hold the firewood chunk upright on a chopping block in one hand and take a good swing at it with a hatchet. It's pretty obvious what's wrong with this picture: you have a sharp bladed instrument moving at high speed in the direction of your bare hand. After some practice, you'll get the hang of it; the problem is reaching that level of skill without a few trips to your local suturist or finger-reattachment specialist.
There's a better way: the Froe. Traditionally used for splitting shingles, it serves equally well for bloodless, fear-free kindling. The iron blade is driven into the log (another piece of firewood makes a perfect "mallet" for this), and then torque is applied using the wooden handle to complete the split.
Your fingers will thank you.
-- Karl Bunker
Froe
$40
From Lehman's, among others
Old froes can be found on eBay for $10 - $30.
Favorite (15)
christopher
"Most folks will tell you that the way to make little sticks (kindling) out of big sticks (chunks of firewood) is to hold the firewood chunk upright on a chopping block in one hand and take a good swing at it with a hatchet."
Most folks were never in the Boy Scouts, either, or they'd know to pick up another piece of wood, let your kindling target lean on it, and then swing down with your axe (not hatchet). No trips to the ER and no additional tools needed.
Sure, this a Cool Tools list, but Working Smart should always trump Buying More.
Harold Risner
A froe is used to rive out roofing shingles or tobacco sticks. (not split)
A wood mallet is needed to drive the froe into the wood block. A metal hammer will batter the top edge of the froe. A hickory block , about 6 in. thick, makes a good one. A maul is used to split firewood.