I thought it would be cool to compare some different spring loaded "winged" hand splitters. I would have put this in the axe section, but no one seems to go there. First up is the Chopper1 splitting axe. It was invented by Bob Kolonia of Pennsylvania, and came out in 1975. Its a heavy splitting axe with an approx 5.5-6 lb head that has spring loaded wings to push the splits apart. It was made up until around 1989 when it was discontinued. Years later around 2020 it was again being manufactured by Kchop LLC based in New Jersey, and is mass produced and sold again. To the best of my knowledge, Bob Kolonia is the president of Kchop LLC. Next up is the Great Divider splitting axe. Made by Warren Tool out of Ohio, starting in 1981. Like the Chopper1, it looks to have a very heavy head. The exact head weight was not located, but certainly is in the 5+ lb range. I saw note of the entire axe being mentioned as 10 lbs. Its worth noting research shows the Chopper1 and Great Divider both had separate patents. Lastly, lets look at the Splitmaster splitting maul. Made by Alltrade out of California starting in 1983, it is similar to the Chopper1, and Great Divider for it has spring loaded wings built into the head. Instead of an axe head however, this tool has a maul head which differs from the other axes I mentioned. The Splitmaster maul has a heavy head, weighing approx 7.5 pounds. If anyone has more information on these tools or knows of other spring loaded hand spiltters please add them to this thread so we can all learn some new information.
I remember my dads buddy had one years ago and swore by it. Never swung one myself. What's people's thoughts on it...gimmick or something noteworthy?
I only tried one once but that was many, many moons ago and all I remember is I had no urge to buy one.
Do they even exist any more. Not that I have gone looking but don't recall seeing any in stores lately.
Just did a quick search and yes they do. Around $200 for the Chopper = ouch. They are proud of that thing !!
