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How to Chop firewood with an Axe: with STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® Champ Brad De Losa

Travelling the world with STIHL Timbersports is an amazing experience, but when it comes to chopping firewood I like to keep the physical exertion for the main stage. Here are my handy tips to help you chop like a champion and keep the family warm this Winter.

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place the log fire wood on a flat surface

Step 1

As always, make sure you’re wearing the correct Personal Protective Equipment and please follow the correct operating instructions as recommended in the owners manual of your axe.

Place the log on its end on a flat, even surface. I like to use a larger log as a chopping block to make it easier.

Stand with your feed slightly apart and start with the axe resting position

Step 2

Stand with your feet slightly apart, start with the axe resting on the top of the log exactly where you want to split it.

TIP: Start in line with the grain, or at a visible crack. This will lessen the effort required to split the log.

lift the axe directly over your head

Step 3

Lift the axe directly over your head and swing down trying to use your whole body and legs to create power.

TIP: Do not swing over your shoulder as this could cause the axe to scoop off and miss.

swing down with your axe to chop the wood

Step 4

Repeat steps 1-3 until the log is split into manageable sized pieces to fit into your woodstack ready for your fireplace, pit or stove.

Stack your cut pieces of firewood to let the wood dry properly

Step 5

Stack your cut pieces evenly to let the wood dry properly.

TIP: Proper firewood storage is important. Stack the logs so that air can circulate between them. A woodstacker adds a nice feature to your Winter garden and protects your firewood from the rain.

Always wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment and follow the correct operating instruction as recommended in the owner’s manual of your product.

“Travelling the world with STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® is an amazing experience, but when it comes to chopping firewood I like to keep the physical exertion for the main stage. Here are my handy tips to help you chop or saw like a champion and keep the family warm this Winter.”

Brad De Losa, STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® Athlete