TM 9-243
USING THE TIMBER WEDGE
1 To use the timber wedge, first block the log to be
split, or steady it so it cannot roll.
2 With the left hand, hold the wedge's narrow edge (1)
on the log where a split is desired.
CAUTION
Do not use a timber wedge that has
nicks or burrs, since the rough
sections can scratch the hands or
can cause chips to break off when
struck by sledge.
3 Hold the sledge handle in the right hand, close to its
head, and start driving the wedge (2) into the log
with a pounding action.
4 Give the wedge a few blows, then start a second
wedge on the line farther along the log and drive it
with a few sledge blows.
5 Alternate driving the wedges into the log until log
splits. For longer logs, more than two wedges
should be used.
NOTE
Reverse the position of the hands if
left-handed.
45-6
