To add to BuZZsaw's point about using different mauls/axes: I did my first ever frozen wood job these last few days. Isocore was perfect for knocking logs free. Everything was cut 15" or less, special order for a friend, and they need to be split small so they dry faster (he's got NO wood for next season). The Iso chunked it, the little eastwing hatchet made quick work of those larger pieces. I keep a double bit handy, haven't used that forever, but I don't normally split on site either. Sca
I used to know a guy who could blank up an anvil with a flyswatter. By replacing them so easily they avoid getting sued for possible injury.
I've gone through several mauls...mails... now.working with 2 red handled one's I got from wm. They had a "lifetime" guarantee on them, which worked years ago for one I broke. Problem now is they're old with no markings or writing, so I'm sure wm wouldn't warranty. That would be the good thing about getting a fiskars...they're a big obvious company, easy to keep up with instead of some small off name brand. But that maul is pretty expensive it seems. Does that isocore work that good, that it's worth $70? (Apart from the warranty)
90% of the 60+ cords I've split with the x27. No problems at all. If you are mindful of not overstriking or swinging the maul on the far side of the round (thus risking smacking the handle against the front part of the round) then you should be fine. Mine feels exactly the same as the first time I used it.
So far the isocore has taken more abuse than my wooden handled counterparts. Im also a little more careful now. But the head is far more secure, weight good, and shape of the cutting face (head shape) more effective than the $20 models. If you split a large amount by hand, can afford it, yep, worth it imho. Sca
I use it as a sledge and beat the chit out of it, but dont abuse it. It stays in the back of the PU for the most part.
UPDATE: just got an email saying the claim has been processed and ill get an email once the replacement ships. WOO HOO! Dontcha wish everything in life was this easy! I would highly recommend Fiskars to anyone considering getting any of their hand tools.
Got an email this morning. Fiskars has had unprecedented sales (their words) of the Isocore and they will be out of stock until late Spring. I can get a refund check for $65 or show a receipt for the maul and they'll refund that. $65 here i come. Has anyone noticed if they are out of stock at stores?
I saw a couple at my local Home Depot last week. According to their website they still have a few in stock.
Update. Got a check in the mail yesterday for $65. Handle has yet to break so i still use it. Anyone know where i can get a new one CHEAP?
I think nothing could be more perfect for you than making a handle out of black locust. All it would cost you is your time
