Some tips on chopping firewood:
- Make sure the log is in a stable position; it's best to have it sitting straight up, and not sitting at an angle. The chopping block should have a flat surface.
- Always wear eye protection! You do NOT want to be struck in the eye by a piece of debris.
- Dry logs will split much more easily and will also burn better. If you are using a wood stove or a fireplace, make sure the wood has less than 20% water content. Burning unseasoned wood will cause creosote to build up in your chimney.
- Consider wearing protection for your shins. Keep your legs apart, and use a stance that keeps you out of the path of your axe if you miss or swing through the log. You don't want to chop your leg by mistake.
- If your axe gets stuck in the wood, don't try to pound it through. Just pull up on the handle.
- Aim carefully and try to hit the centre of the log. Always follow through with your swing.
