Look closely, and you can see Rune Andersson's initials inscribed on the head of this splitting maul. He's one of 11 professional smiths the Swedish company Gränsfors Bruks employs. I learned this on page two of "The Axe Book"—there are also tips on everything from log limbing to ax throwing—which comes with each maul. You can also learn a lot just by inspecting it: The 5.25-pound steel head has been tempered and annealed to perfection; the hickory handle is a work of art. But, most important, it's awesomely adept at its job: exploding rounds—with or without a wedge—with a terrific crack that's better than a shot of testosterone.

Gransfors Bruks Splitting Maul $137 gransfors.com