Spliting Hazel

[StephenLee]

I am trying to split hazel twigs, about 1" diameter, length-ways to make hurdles and edges for raised beds but the split keeps running off to one side or the other.

Can anyone give me any advice on technique ? Can I build a jig ?

Any advice and/or tips gratefully received.

[counsellor]

Try starting a number of splits at various points along the pole rather than just run from one end

[StephenLee]

Thanks Councellor,

I've tried your method and I am definitely getting longer splits. I think that it is now just a matter of practice.

Stephen

[luxor]

its easier to show than tell you, but ill try
say your split begins to start running to the right,
put more pressure on the right hand side as you split it.

[SW_pheonix]

As above, you have to bend it to make the split run the opposite direction.

[StephenLee]

Thanks Guys,
I think that I'm getting the hang of it. I've just split some 7 footers successfully.
Stephen