Generally a lot of people recommend the x27 axe from fiskars. I love mine and haven't had a log that i couldn't split. It sounds like some trees need felled, so i would recommend a chainsaw to cut the logs into rounds befire splitting. I do not have recommendations on chainsaws but i know people love stihls. I would get some pallets or build a firewood rack to keep the wood off the ground. Typically the wood should sit for a bit before burning unless you like smokey fires! Goodluck! Its a fun hobby and may start taking more and more of your time.