Ames is a well-known tool manufacturer, so it only makes sense for them to have a line of axes and mauls. Their product line-up can get a little confusing with all of the various names and model numbers they use, so to keep things simple, we’re only going to look at two of their most popular splitting axes and mauls.
Click on one of the links below to read an individual review or read the whole post to compare them both.
Ames Super Splitter
Quick Facts
Length: 33.5 inches
Weight: 6 pounds
Material: steel head & fiberglass handle
The Ames Super Splitter falls under their True Temper brand. It has a 4-pound head and fairly light 36 inch fiberglass handle that rounds out the total weight to right around 6 pounds.
The handle is actually a little more complex than a normal fiberglass handle. While the core is indeed fiberglass, the exterior of the handle is made of molded polypropylene for extra strength and added grip.
This might might now have the flash of some of the more expensive brands out there, but it’s true bang-for-your-buck workhorse. Even if you have a fancier model, having one of these around as a backup is never a bad idea.
There’s not a whole heck of a lot more to say about this nice splitting axe in an affordable package except that in this case, you actually get more than you pay for.
Ames Splitting Maul
Quick Facts
Length: 36 inches
Weight: 8.5 pounds
Material: drop forged steel head & hickory handle
This Ames splitting maul is the bigger brother to the previously reviewed Ames Super Splitter. This True American forged steel maul weights around 8.5 pounds with an 8-pound head. Aside from the heavier head, what really makes it different from the smaller lighter Super Splitter is its hickory axe handle.
The Ames splitting maul is made in the USA, so it owns up to the True American name. And, like it’s smaller 4-pound model, it’s a true value wood splitter.
There aren’t many frills, but it does the job, and it does it well for a fraction of the price of many of the more glamorous imported splitting mauls. It can be used as a stand alone wood splitting tool, but it also works great with a separate wedge. However you decide to use, you’ll be pleased with the results.
In Summary
Both the 4-pound Ames Super Splitter splitting axe and the larger 8-pound maul are great value buys. Though they aren’t as beautiful as a hand-crafted Husqvarna or as unique as a Leveraxe, they get the job done for a fraction of the cost.
The 4-pound version is great for smaller jobs, while the 6-pound version can help with most medium wood splitting tasks. And, even if you don’t plan to use either one as your main axe, they make great backups in case of a broken handle or other problem.
Due to the price point on both of these, you really can’t go wrong.
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