How to Sharpen Log Splitter Wedge

May 31, 2023

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Last week I was using my log splitter wedge and I noticed that each split was taking longer and longer. After a quick inspection, I found that the wedge had blunted down quite a bit and wasn’t splitting quite like it used to. Sometimes it would even bounce off the wood.

Once I’d finished sharpening the wedge, I said to myself –

‘I can’t be the only one with this problem’

– Me

So here we are, an article with specific instructions on how to sharpen log splitter wedge.

Over time, all log splitter wedges will lose their sharpness. You will have to re-sharpen them – it’s just the way it is.

Only after sharpening them will you get back to the original efficiency of the wedge.

So, How to sharpen log splitter wedge?

How to Sharpen Log Splitter Wedge
Sledgehammer and a wedge splitting a birch log

While the procedure to sharpen the log splitter wedge is easy, you will need a handful of things for the same. You have to 1st procure them before following the steps we will cover below.

Things you’ll need:

  • Your blunted log splitting wedge
  • A coarse metal file
  • A fine metal file

How to sharpen log splitter wedge by hand

Step 1: Examine the wedge:

Very first thing is to examine the wedge. You are specifically looking for cracks. If there are cracks in the blade, you cannot use that blade again. You shouldn’t sharpen that blade either as replacement is the only real safe option.

If you do need to replace your wedge, heres the on we recommend because it is made in the USA and is a high quality product, if not, feel free to skip down the page to the sharpening instructions:

Step 2: Use a COARSE Metal file:

Over time, the edges of the blade might rollover. You have to deal with these edges using a coarse file. For the sides as well, you will also have to use the coarse file.

Step 3: Start at the sides:

First start with the sides of the wedge. This will help you refine the sides and slowly move towards the tip. When you move towards the tip, you will encounter the rolled edges and since the file move against them, straightening them is easy.

Step 4: Use a FINE metal file:

The splitting point or the tip of the blades should be filed with the fine metal file. However, you have to ensure that the tip is properly filed from both sides. Only then can you evenly split the logs.

Using these four simple steps, you can easily sharpen the log splitter wedge.

If you’re looking for a decent metal file to sharpen your wedge, we recommend this one:

What are the advantages of a sharp log splitter wedge?

Sure enough, you’re taking a lot of effort to sharpen the log splitter but do you know the same advantages?

We will cover those below.

  1. Easy to split:

When the blades of the log splitter wedge are sharp, the logs are easy to split. Moreover, you can split them into the required size. That way, you will not have to perform the splitting operation on pieces of the same log repeatedly. The result is ready to use log pieces right away.

  1. Can handle logs in bulk:

When the log splitter wedge is sharp, you can handle a lot of logs in a single day. It will save you time and increase your efficiency.

You might have noticed that we are dealing with files and blades in the process. That is why undertaking certain safety precautions is a necessity.

Precautions to take while sharpening log splitter wedge:

The two safety precautions you need to stick to include:

  1. Use safety gear:

While dealing with the wedge of blades and the files, you should always wear safety gloves and an eye mask. That way, you are less prone to suffering a cut.

  1. File both sides:

Many people are in a hurry to use the wedge.

They do not pay proper attention to both sides. Merely filing a single side of the tip is of no use. It means that the shape of the tip will be different on one side.

When that happens, there are chances that the log might be of uneven shape. Even more, the log might move swiftly to one side because of the shape of the tip. In that case, the chances of an accident increase manifold.

To avoid this, simply file the tip on both sides. That way, you will no longer have to worry about uneven cutting off logs or any injury.

What is the best splitting wedge sharpening angle?

If it’s a hardwood like oak or maple, then you should use a 45 degree angle. If it’s a softwood like pine or cedar, then you should use a 30 degree angle.

How do I know when to sharpen my Splitting Maul?

Easy! The giveaway is simply when your splitting maul bounces off wood when you try and split it. You can also tell just by looking at it, or ‘gently’ running your finger across the blade.

Should I sharpen a log splitter wedge?

Yes, absolutely. It’s very important to keep your log splitter wedge sharp so that it is safe to use.

How do you sharpen a wood splitter axe?

You sharpen a wood splitter axe in much the same way that you sharpen the wedge above. However, you can also use a grinder to perform the task also.

Should I sharpen my splitting axe?

Yes, if you’re asking the question, there is a good chance that your axe is blunt and could be a potential safety risk. If your axe bounces off the wood you are trying to split, it is worth either getting out the metal files, or using the bench grinder to give it a good maintenance sharpen.

Conclusion:

Sharpening a log splitter wedge isn’t a difficult task. However, you need to pay proper attention while doing so. Simply follow the guide above, and you will never have an issue with sharpening a log splitter wedge again.

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