The Stikkan is a heavy-duty, cast iron hand tool that makes piles of softwood kindling fast, easily and safely. Originally invented in Norway in 1982, it is currently made by hand in Foshaga, Sweden and distributed in the US exclusively by our company. Designed for indoor or outdoor use, the patented unit mounts easily on a wall, fence post or even a tree. This essential tool allows you to make your own softwood kindling for your fireplace, wood stove or clay oven. To use, attach to a stable wall or sturdy post (no plaster board) approximately 4' from the ground to the top screw holes. Four lag screws are included; mounting holes are spaced on 2-5/8" centers. To operate, simply raise the 22-1/2" arm and insert wood stock up to 14" long into one of the lower bracket notches and press the steel blade into the wood. Reposition the wood on progressively higher notches to help maintain ample leverage until full splitting occurs. The sturdy hinge restricts side-to-side blade movement, making the splitting process more controllable and safer than using an axe or chainsaw. Elegant curves and compact design affords the operator with a myriad of choices for placement in or around the home, yard or barn. Softwoods (pine, spruce) are ideal since they split easily and ignite well. When not in use, an included safety ring slips over the end of the arm to secure it closed. To minimize risk, place device out of reach of small children. Most operators can make unlimited quantities of softwood kindling, without the dangers normally associated with hatchets, chainsaws, axes or mechanized splitters. No need to forage around collecting twigs when you can safety split your own kindling without the need for large muscles, power or hearing or back protection. The black passivated electrolytic zinc finish is durable enough for year-round use. The Stikkan has a 10 year manufacturer's warranty and has been designed for a lifetime. Not recommended for hardwoods. Our US design patent is active and has been in place for over a decade. Patent # US D702,097 S - there are literally dozens of fraudulent, counterfeit knock-offs of our technology, many of questionable quality. The vast majority are coming from China. If the price is too good to be true, it is probably a copy. Buyer Beware! This text was approved by Amazon leadership.