# How to Split Burly Firewood
Firewood provides an often inexpensive heating option to those with stoves. Seasoned wood, or wood that has been exposed to the elements for six to 12 months, provides the highest heat compared with green or unseasoned wood. Use a well-sharpened chainsaw to cut a fallen tree into manageable lengths, between 1- and 3-foot stumps. Thick or burly stumps can be then chopped into firewood logs, but the practice requires careful aiming.
Things You'll Need
- Maul
- Wedge
- Sledge hammer
Instructions
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1
Position the wood so that any knots or burls in the bark are facing you.
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2
Aim the maul carefully and swing it into the wood at the top center of the stump. A maul is similar to an axe but has a wedge-shaped head that is wider than an axe's head. The maul had a wide, hammer-like back opposite the blade side. The width of the wedge works better for splitting wood.
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3
Tap the wedge into the hole or crack created by the maul, if the log does not fully split. Make sure the wedge is held tightly in place by the sides of the crack.
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4
Hammer the wedge with the sledge hammer. The wood will split with either the maul or the wedge and sledge hammer. The wood should split right down the center with the split curving around the burl.
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1
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