How to Split a Second-Growth Redwood

Redwood is a tree that is often found in old-growth forests. Once these forests are logged, new growth sprouts up in the open space. Called second-growth wood, these trees often grow too quickly, resulting in wood full of knots and inferior to the original wood. However, nice pieces of second-growth redwood can be found and used for many projects. If you have a large piece of redwood, you'll want to split it into manageable sections so you can move it. You can also split it to form rails for projects, such as fences or other structures.

Chainsaw
4-pound wedges
Sledgehammer

Instructions

- 1
  Cut off the ends of the redwood piece with a chainsaw so that they are flush and smooth. You can use a handsaw if the log is small.
- 2
  Roll the log around until you find an end that is free of knots. The butt end should look strong and smooth. Many second-growth trees have rot or a lot of knots, which work against you when you are splitting.
- 3
  Hold a 4-pound wedge against the butt of the log so it is vertical and in a smooth section. Tap it into the wood with a sledgehammer until it is stuck.
- 4
  Strike the wedge with the sledgehammer using square, even blows until it is embedded in the wood up to the rim. Leave the wedge in position.
- 5
  Position a second wedge further down the log into a smooth spot that is directly in line with the first wedge, and with the crack that it is forming. Tap it into place with the sledgehammer.
- 6
  Strike the wedge until it is embedded in the log. This cracks the wood open and releases your initial wedge.
- 7
  Take your initial wedge and line it up further down the section of wood so it is in line with the crack. Tap it into position and then strike it down into the wood. Continue until the wood splits in half.
- 8
  Lay each half of the log so the flat side is down and split these sections using the same method. Continue splitting the wood until it is the desired size.

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