Hi,

After wrestling with a 12-inch diameter pine stump yesterday that I thought was rotten, I came to two conclusions:

-The stump, though it appeares to be rotten, is as hard as a rock once you get past the bark.
-I really need a good axe for this job, not a sledgehammer.

So, should I get as large an axe as I can safely handle, or is there an advantage to something smaller? I have similar stumps to remove on this backyard landscaping project, as well as smaller stumps and some downed trees that need limbing. The area is not really accessible by a stump grinder, nor do I want to pay the $120 daily rental fee.

Also, what methods do you all use to get rid of stumps; dynamite, saltpeter, an axe and digging bar? help me look like a pro today instead of the foolish amateur I looked like yesterday! Thanks.