Had surgery on my wrists a while back and splitting masses of kindling at a time is out of the question. I have started splitting a bit at a time with a light hatchet but have to swing and grip very hard. The impact and vibrations were killing my wrist. I had been thinking about a small splitting maul hatchet so I could have the weight work for me. Your post and video tipped me over to purchase and try a "Fireside Friend". I really like it and the weight cuts down on speed of swing and hence vibration. Thanks for the review!
I have pretty much given up on kindling. I make my own fire starters. Egg cartons, drier lint and wax works for me.
I like to cut my kindling small and thin. That way it lights up fast and easy and you get fast and furious fire. I find splitting a nice big pile of kindling very therapeutic. Here’s how I do it:
