Sounds like a good job for a good hatchet, unless your good hatchet does not perform this function well.
Look for a house axe. Its two pounds or a little better on a haft that may go up to 20". It will be a thick head with a high center line. You can find them on the auction site pretty regular, with out breaking the bank.
Its what the doctor ordered for some of that lump mesquite charcoal.
If used isn't your thing Council tool makes a miners axe on a 20" haft. I think they go down to 3 1/2 pounds or so, but they are a two handed tool unless you are really stout. They will be listed under Dayton pattern.
