No problem splitting it. I have several mauls and plenty of wedges. Have split cords and cords of wood in my life, but how do you smooth the surface after splitting to prevent splinters you know where? Hubby has adzes but doubt if I could get them smooth enough with those. Guess I’ll have to try the sawmill route.
Has he got a fancy sander?
The sawmill will serve you better, there will be less to sand.
Or smooth it as well as you can and pour that liquid resin over it and it will have a hard surface.