Reviews and Ratings for Estwing Fireside Friend Axe and Splitting Tool 14.25" Overall, Blue Rubber Handle - E3-FF4

(4 reviews)

5 out of 5 stars

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Estwing Fireside Friend Axe and Splitting Tool 14.25 inch Overall, Blue Rubber Handle

Price: $54.95

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Steve
Lakewood, CA

Jun 14, 2022

Pros: None

Cons: None

BEST SPLITTER for this size and price.

Great hand held splitter at this size. Works best on logs 3" to 12" in diameter. I've put small nicks in the blade that easily come out using a fine file or medium stone. It doesn't need to be axe sharp this Fireside friend works well with brute force. You can baton this splitter using a wood club, no metal, bad idea. I've used my Friend for three years now with great results. Even with some abuse I've only knocked off some paint. With a 3 lb head and 4lbs total, this Friend can be a workout after a few minutes. Recommend oil on the edge for storage to prevent rust.

Gun Doc
Texas

Aug 01, 2023

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?

Berg
North Carolina

Nov 17, 2015

Pros: Construction

Cons: None

Amazing

Used for final splitting of firewood. Worked so well my son has it and I will order another. Weight is substantial enough to help get the job done!

Homeowner
PA

Jun 05, 2023

Pros: Construction, Balance, Head Material

Cons: None

Highly Recommended

I mostly use this to split kindling. It's absolutely perfect for that task, especially when I use it in combination with another hammer, almost like a wedge. Also good as a small sledge, very versatile, good heft, instantly one of my go-to tools.