Maul-ing Over a Decision (Collins vs. Spear & Jackson)

E

Edgy 1

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Jun 2, 2019
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I have about 15 large logs left to split and the Collins 6 lbs maul I got Friday has a goofy grind (off center and thicker on one side of the bevel). I’ve tried filing to change the profile to symmetrical. Finally got to where it has a toothy edge but it still bounces off every other strike.

I see a Spear & Jackson 6.5 lb. with a more agressive head geometry for $60 that I am consdering to finish this job. Can’t really justify it, I may never split logs again.

The Collins is too used to bring back, mom and pop hardware store policy...
 
Opinions are appreciated...

product-images_619


I’m leaning towards getting it, I don’t worry much about investing in quality tools.
 
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Edgy 1 said:
Opinions are appreciated...

product-images_619


I’m leaning towards getting it, I don’t worry much about investing in quality tools.
Click to expand...
There's no reason that a properly filed axe won't split wood. You'll probably just run into a similar circumstance with the new one. Sounds like you just need to spend more time working on the bit of your Collins. I'm out now but I'll post up a pic or two of an appropriate profile for splitting when I get home.
 
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For some reason it's next to impossible for me to get my phone camera to focus edge-on to the bit. But here's a few photos. If you can achieve anything even close to this you should be fine! You want a slightly convex shape not flat edges like this diagram. But this is a good angle for splitting I've found.
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Here's my favorite splitting axe. A 5lb Snow & Neally;
BDteCk4.jpg

The leather wrap was a bad idea btw. Didn't hold up very well at all. It did offer some protection but it's ruined after 1 cord.
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Hopefully that will help give you an idea of what you're looking for with your Collins. Good luck!
 
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