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Pros: None
Cons: None
Don't hit it with another metal tool!
This is a small splitting maul, and a good one. But it is also a wedge shape with a handle. This gives people the idea that they can drive it like a splitting wedge with less chance of the wedge to go flying on a poorly placed strike. However, hitting steel against steel is always dangerous. Using something designed to be hit, e.g. a chisel with a drilling hammer, is somewhat safer if the chisel is properly designed with a relatively soft driven end (the cutting end is hardened.) ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES!!! But hitting hardened steel against hardened steel is very dangerous. This is because one of the hardened faces can shatter, sending sharp metal pieces at near ballistic velocities. I believe the face of the Fireside Friend is hardened, at least somewhat. I strike mine only with a wooden baton or a plastic dead blow hammer. For those that have never had an issue. Well it works until is doesn't! Why risk it?
