Soilarch
ArboristSite Operative
I'm pretty new to splitting wood. I've done a few amount as a kid but I'm taking a serious go at this fall/winter. Yesterday, the 8lb head on my maul flew off! (truper fiberglass) Just stared into the woods towards the direction it went and thought, "we'll that's why the old-timers don't like fiberglass." Went and bought a 6lb maul at Oerschelin (TSC or Rural King). It's a 'Razorback" brand with a wood handle. Wrapped the base in 1/4" nylon rope since I'm no pro and went at it again today. The SAME THING HAPPENED after about 1/2 cord! I inspected the wooden handle...a few small cracks around the steel 'washer wedge" they use but the body itself is uncracked. Is this what I get for buying cheap mauls or is there something I could be doing to "pull" the heads off. I snap wrists and pull the handle to my belt buckle at the end of the movement, I feel it really helps acceleration down the last foot or two. (By the way I loved the 6lb head!) I know this would create some pulling forces but I don't think any human is that strong. Logs were 15x15 white oak that was felled and bucked Monday. I know I'm generating 'decent' force cause they're breaking nicely on the none-branch/knot pieces...but is the form to blame?
Lastly, any recommendations on who has good wooden handles and a quick turn-around? I can hang 'em myself but the local supply sucks. I've never soaked in Anti-freeze or Linseed but will that help?
Thanks
Lastly, any recommendations on who has good wooden handles and a quick turn-around? I can hang 'em myself but the local supply sucks. I've never soaked in Anti-freeze or Linseed but will that help?
Thanks