The best kindling splitters depend on the job they are chosen for. Whether you are investing in a machine for your firewood company, or simply want something to bust up firewood for heating your home in winter, the best kindling splinters are worlds apart. In this article, we discuss why you should consider investing in a kindling splitter, what to consider before purchasing one, and reviews for our top picks for the best splitters.
For all-around home and small commercial use, we prefer the Kindling Cracker Firewood Splitter for its generous warranty and solid, durable construction. If you need a heavy-duty model, the KindleJack Axe Wedge is our choice for larger, harder pieces of wood and more frequent use. And if you're looking for a kindling splitter that can break down logs straight from the woodpile, the Mighty Hand Kindling Splitter XL has the largest mouth of all the splitters we reviewed.
Backyard Boss Top 3 Kindling Splitters for 2021
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Best All-Around Kindling Splitter
A durable, conveniently sized splitter that works with just about any kind of wood.
- Made of high-quality cast iron
- Requires less force to split firewood than a standard ax
- Bolt holes for increased stability and permanent mounting
- 6.5 in hoop opening limits log size
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WHY WE LIKE IT: This kindling splitter offers an award-winning, patented design to quickly, easily, and safely create all the kindling you need. It’s forged in Australia from the highest-quality cast iron. Also, we know you’ll enjoy the fact that it’s virtually maintenance-free. Just brush off any wood dust and occasionally touch up the paint. It’s a tool that can stay in your family for generations.
The splitter has a compact design, standing 12 in tall and 6.5in in diameter. Made of solid cast iron, it weighs a solid 10 pounds. This impressive unit also comes with a 5-year limited warranty from the manufacturer, though you are unlikely to need it given the excellent durability of the tool.
WHO SHOULD BUY IT: We like this model for nearly everyone. If you're splitting kindling for home use or small commercial scale, this is a winning model that's safe, durable, affordable and effective.
Best Large Kindling Splitter
Make fatwood and firewood in three easy steps.
- Large opening to fit logs up to 8 in in diameter
- An extra-large base provides increased stability with the option to bolt it down
- Vinyl blade guard protects the blade when not in use
- Shorter warranty than other options
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WHY WE LIKE IT: Create kindling in three easy steps: set, strike, split. This kindling splitter is a solid, stable tool that lets you split wood without a dangerous ax. Forged from cast iron, it’s capable of splitting even the toughest woods.
That said, this bad boy has an extra-large design that allows you to split logs up to 8in in diameter. No installation is required, simply set the splitter on a level surface and you’re ready to go.
This splitter stands tall with a height of 13in and a diameter of 11in. It weighs a solid 13lbs and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
WHO SHOULD BUY IT: This kindling splitter is best for those who are splitting larger log or split wood into kindling, need a sharper and sturdier than average tool, and don't mind investing a bit more in a tool.
Best Lightweight Kindling Splitter
The Jack Jr. is the lightest is the lightest wood log splitter on this list, making it easy to move around as needed.
- Splits one log into four pieces to create kindling
- Bolt holes are pre-drilled to allow for added stability
- Easy operation requires less force thanks to the patent-pending design
- Hard to split logs larger than 12 x 3 inches
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WHY WE LIKE IT: You can easily split one log into four pieces with this blade wedge. Similar to other hoop kindling splitters, it requires less force to split the wood and includes a unique blade design. You’ll safely split your firewood into multiple pieces with one swing. No need for a sharp ax to split your wood, just place your log into the splitter and strike with a hammer.
The EasyGoProducts Jack Jr. optionally mounts onto a bock of wood. Made from durable materials, it weighs a solid 7 lbs. Unfortunately, we found no warranty information is available from the manufacturer.
WHO SHOULD BUY IT: The Jack Jr. is lightweight, making it the best choice for people who want to take it along on a trip, be it for camping or a BBQ.
Best Beginner Kindling Splitter
Works with hardwood and softwood. If your wood fits, it'll split.
- Easily splits wood with less force than an ax
- Wide base with pre-drilled holes for security and stability
- No maintenance required
- Narrow inner diameter opening limits wood to less than 6 inches.
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WHY WE LIKE IT: This kindling splitter is incredibly easy to use. Just place your wood within the hoop and strike it with a hammer to split firewood into kindling quickly and safely. The heavy-duty splitter is also forged from cast iron and requires virtually no maintenance, allowing you to use it year after year. The wide base offers two feet with pre-drilled holes, making securing your splitter a cinch.
Standing at 12 in tall and 8 in wide, this splitter will handle your wood with ease. It weighs in at 9.5 lbs, giving the tool significant stability. No warranty is offered.
WHO SHOULD BUY IT: If you need portability as well as effectiveness, this could be your best option. At under 10 pounds it's one of the lighter kindling splitter we reviewed, but it has all the features and stability of heavier models.
Best Mountable Compact Kindling Splitter
Safer to use compared to a standard axe. Design keeps hands away from the blade.
- Made from hand-forged titanium for excellent durability
- Easily and safely splits wood without needing to use an ax
- Easy to remove blade lets you sharpen the tool anytime you want
- The small inner diameter of 6.5in limits log size
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WHY WE LIKE IT: Another safe hoop kindling splitter, the Powerhouse Kindling Cutter offers a hand-forged titanium body. The blade is hand-sharpened, made from a steel-titanium alloy, and is removable. The tool is virtually maintenance-free. It has pre-drilled holes in the base allowing you to mount the splitter for increased stability.
A compact kindling splitter, the Powerhouse Kindling Cutter is only 9in tall and has an outside diameter of 7in. It weighs 10lbs, which allows for easy portability. The manufacturer offers a 1-year limited warranty.
WHO SHOULD BUY IT: This is the smallest kindling splitter we reviewed, but it has all the functionality of larger models (as long as your log fits in the mouth). If you're in a small space, working with smaller pieces of wood, and need to split kindling less often than most, this little number might be right for you.
Best Log & Kindling Splitter Combo
The Smart Splitter is an efficient axe that can be used by everyone in your family.
- A multifunctional tool that can split firewood as well as kindling
- The ergonomic design saves your arms and back from strain
- Made from high-quality materials that are incredibly durable
- Initial set-up can be a challenge
- Multiple attempts may be needed to split harder woods
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WHY WE LIKE IT: This ergonomic log splitter eliminates the dangers of swinging an ax to create your kindling. It mounts securely to any stump and is easy to store when not in use. It increases the splitting pressure of your swing, allowing you to split hardwoods easily with up to 14 tons of force. You’ll be able to create firewood and kindling with one tool.
The Smart Splitter uses a weight to drive the blade through the wood, saving your arms and back from doing the heavy lifting. It weighs 21lbs and is 4ft tall when assembled.
WHO SHOULD BUY IT: Those who need one tool for two jobs. Whether it's a space issue or a matter of preference, a tool that can split fatwood and kindling in one place can be useful for some. If that sounds like you, then this might be the right choice.
Why Invest in a Kindling Splitter Insert?
Every good fire starts with kindling. You can split firewood into kindling by hand with an ax. However, using a kindling splitter insert is safer, faster, and easier. With one solid hammer strike, you’ll create a stack of kindling from your log. Since you aren’t swinging an ax close to your hands, it’s a much safer way to create kindling.
Quality kindling splitter inserts are practically maintenance-free. You’ll be able to use your splitter year after year with very little time spent cleaning or sharpening. Plus, it takes far less force to split the wood, allowing your children to help easily and safely.
What to Consider Before Buying a Kindling Splitter
Four qualities come together to make a great kindling splitter. Let’s consider each one so you know what to look for before you buy.
Blade material and shape
The blade is one of the most important parts of your kindling splitter. Splitter blades don’t need to be razor-sharp to work.
However, you want a blade that is made from a sturdy metal that will maintain its edge to make splitting wood easy use after use. Wedge-shaped blades made from forged titanium or cast iron are best.
Size of the splitter
Many kindling splitters feature a hoop design. This enables you to keep your hands away from the log you are splitting, increasing safety.
That said, the hoop limits the size of the log that can be placed in the kindling splitter. You want to choose a kindling splitter that is large enough to handle your logs without being so large that it is a burden to move around.
Stability and weight
Forged from metal, kindling splitters can weigh a significant amount. Increased weight adds stability to the tool and can indicate a higher quality casting.
If you want the option to increase the stability of your kindling splitter, consider options that have pre-drilled holes in the base. This will allow you to bolt down the tool for maximum stability.
Overall cost
Like all tools, kindling splitters have a price range. The price is correlated to the quality of material used in manufacturing.
Therefore, higher cost splitters made from highly durable materials can last for generations. Many splitters don’t require any maintenance, so you can expect the sticker price to be the lifetime price of the tool.
Further, there are some kindling splitters with removable blades that may have occasional maintenance costs.
Kindling Splitter Questions and Answers
Will my cast-iron kindling splitter rust?
All cast iron can rust, even if it has a coating. Maintain your cast iron kindling splitter with a light coat of oil or beeswax every season. Alternatively, you can coat your splitter with paint, repainting any time you notice chips. When not in use, store your wood splitting tools inside, away from the rain.
What safety equipment should I wear when splitting wood for kindling?
You should always wear protective eyeglasses or a face shield. This will protect you from any shards that fly off the wood. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves and closed-toe shoes. This will protect your hands and feet while lifting and moving heavy logs.
Where should I place my kindling splitter?
You should place your kindling splitter on a sturdy, flat surface. Many individuals place their splitters on a tree stump. Think about your back when placing your kindling splitter. Elevating the tool can reduce the amount of bending and strain placed on your back.
Which Kindling Splitter is Best For You?
Depending on whether you will use your kindling splitter for residential or commercial use, the best kindling splitter for you is hopefully a bit more clear to you now. Our top choice is the Kindling Cracker Firewood Splitter, which has a great warranty, solid construction, and will do just about anything a kindling splitter should, including bolting down for safety and stability as well as being lightweight enough to move around if necessary.
A durable, conveniently sized splitter that works with just about any kind of wood.
- Made of high-quality cast iron
- Requires less force to split firewood than a standard ax
- Bolt holes for increased stability and permanent mounting
- 6.5 in hoop opening limits log size
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Our other top picks:
Best Large Kindling Splitter: Mighty Hand Kindling Splitter Xl
Best Lightweight Kindling Splitter: Wood Kindling Splitter Hand Grinding Blade
Best Heavy-Duty Kindling Splitter: Easygoproducts Kindlejack Axe Wedge
Best Mountable Compact Kindling Splitter: Powerhouse Kindling Cutter
Best Log & Kindling Splitter Combo: Logosol Smart-Splitter
Looking for a great machine for splitting logs, in addition to a kindling splitter? You may be in need of one of the best log splitters.