Though I haven't split the "old way" in years, I did bust a 2' 100 yr old red oak (splits easy) in halves for transport to my 30 ton splitter a few weeks back. Get a small crack started with the axe and use a metal wedge or two (plus a large wooden one helps) and a sledge hammer or maul. Or rent a decent splitter...I wouldn't wast my time otherwise...just mho.
ps: My splitters got a date with a tough old 2' maple in the morning
