I think this video has a little bit more realistic viewpoint on batoning.
Batoning Wood with your knife

Batoning is a technique that I reserve for those circumstances when I don't have the correct tools. There are times when all I have is what is my pockets. There is a reason I carry an RSK MK 1 as my primary folder when I am in the field; I know what it is capable of, and light batoning is one of those abilities. There are some knives I wouldn't attempt batoning, so I never carry them in the field as a primary knife.

I have also made more than my fair share of wooden wedges, both skills my grandfather taught me ages ago. There is a time and place for both techniques; to say one is stupid is short-sighted.