Laser-Guided Splitting Maul

Split firewood like a pro, even if you are coordinationally challenged!

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Description

Put cutting edge tool technology on hand tools that have been around for hundreds of years. Mount a line laser on the handle of a splitting maul to help guide your killing stroke; those firewood logs don't stand a chance! Taking into consideration impact resistance, and the ability to fine tune where and at what angle the laser falls will make this a project that can work as hard as you do.

Details

It started with laser-guided missiles, then laser levels, then laser guided power tools. Let's take lasers back to the iron age.

Small laser modules that can run on 12 volts or less are readily available and cheap. Using the line-type laser will make this project work. It will project a line onto the log you are splitting in the raised position through mid-stroke into contact, making it easier to hit that where you want.

Shock absorbtion will be a key for improving the longevity. Using a mount that provides dampened isolation of the laser unit will substantially extend the usable life of this device.

Future improvements may include a split-cam, stroke counter (for cross-fit), and a burning laser to both split the log and start your fire at the same time.