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Do you have to cut the pieces of wood more often? Are you doing such work on a commercial scale? Well, in both cases, you must have gotten tired of investing too much of your time and effort into this work. If regular ways, like using an axe have made you exhausted, then there is no need to worry, as we are here with the most appropriate solution for you.
If you are cutting the logs for a living, or just because you need some pieces of wood for your chimney, a log splitter will benefit you in both these cases. A log splitter is an innovative device or equipment used for the pre-cutting of soft or hardwood logs into smaller pieces, which are then used for purposes of firewood. Below-mention is a compiled list of all the top-rated log splitters available in the sector.
Best Log Splitter Brands Reviewed
We’ve compiled the the best log splitters on the markets reviewed to pick the perfect brand that fits your commercial business or home needs for the money.
1.Champion
Champion Power Equipment is a famous and leading manufacturer of the most efficient and functional equipment for outdoor use. Champion works with confidence as the company has years of experience supplying North American and global customers with efficient, robust power devices developed and built in the US. Champion Power Equipment has acquired a reputation since 2003 for developing and creating the highest quality power equipment on the market. With the help of its professional knowledge and expertise, the brand has been successful in earning the best reputation by making the most functional gear. So, let us get into the offering of Champion log splitter.
Whereas, despite the above-mentioned flaws, this particular unit is quite famous as it also arrives with many impressive features. The splitting capacity if this machine is quite high. It can split up to 25 tons of wood. With such high capacity, it becomes ideal for commercial use as well. The powerful engine of this device is yet another thing that will undoubtedly attract you. With the 224 ccs single-cylinder OHV engine, the Champion performs like a true champ. Other than this, the quality of this unit is also commendable and makes it possible for the machine to offer you services for a longer period. Another plus point about the Champion is that it offers you versatility as well. This means that you can easily convert it from vertical to horizontal style.
Moreover, the fact that this machine is quite fast will also make it worth your investment. The cycle time of this machine is only twelve seconds. Furthermore, the auto-return valve of this splitter makes it work even more efficiently, and, as a result, it becomes capable of completes three hundred cycles every hour. The air-cooled design of this machine helps in preventing it from getting overheated. This feature is especially important when you have such high power machines. The skewed wedge featured in this splitter ensures easy cutting of the hardest wood. Additionally, the log catchers at the side prevent the logs from falling or sliding away. The portable nature of this machine is yet another advantage. The 16-inched tires make it easy for it to move, and you can also tow it. The product also comes with two years of warranty.
The bottom line about the Champion log splitting machine is that it will offer you the most efficient services with the help of various impeccable specs. The versatile nature that it possesses will make you deal with every sort of work. The immensely powerful engine, in combination with the air-cooled design, will make the machine able to offer you high performance without getting heated up. With high portability, you will have ease in accessing different sites. The backing warranty makes you feel relieved, as well. However, the fuel consumption of this machine is quite high, and it is difficult to assemble as well.
Pros |
---|
25 tons of splitting capacity |
Powerful engine |
Versatile |
Fast |
Air Cooled design |
Skewed wedge |
Log catchers |
Portable and towable |
Made in USA |
Two years of the limited warranty |
Cons |
---|
Poor fuel economy |
Hard to assemble |
High consumption of fuel |
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2.Yardmax YU2566
Yardmax is yet another popular company in the sector. It is famous for its ongoing portfolio full of functional equipment that it has been producing over the years. The brand has manufactured and launched one of the best line-ups in terms of outdoor equipment. The company is growing day by day in terms of both fan-base and production as well. The log splitters manufactured by Yardmax will never fail to impress you. Want to know why? Well, then carry on reading, as we have put light upon one of the most famous models by this brand, known as the Yardmax YU2566.
However, the upside of the YU2566 log splitter model by Yardmax is quite impressive, as it features numerous points that help in overcoming the downside. First of all, you will be pleased to know that this unit is available with different capacities. You will have options ranging from 25 tons to 35 tons. Each option has a differently powered engine with power ranging from 6.5 to 10.5hp. The power that this machine holds is immense and capable of delivering you promising results. The Briggs & Stratton Engine will never fail to impress you. Moreover, as this device is versatile, you can convert it from horizontal to a vertical system and deal with every situation. The construction of this product is commendable as well. It is built to last.
Apart from the powerful nature and versatile operation, you will also get additional facilities like dual large log cradles. This feature has particular importance as it holds the logs and reduces manual work. Furthermore, the 4-way wedge will work quickly and efficiently to cut all sorts of hard and softwood. The U-beam structure of this unit is stronger and more efficient than many other options that you will come across in the market. Additionally, there is a log spinner foot plate installed in this system as well. This feature helps in holding and rotating the log so that the stress on the beam can be reduced. Moreover, this will also help in preventing the log from slipping away. The portability that this splitter offers is yet another plus point as you can easily tow it and use the sturdy wheels to access different sites.
All in all, the Yardmax YU2566 machine for splitting the logs is a powerful and promising model that you will get. The construction quality of this unit is quite high and will offer you great value. The engine, with its immense power, will definitely attract you. Moreover, the 4-way wedge is there to help the machine operate effectively. As it is portable, you can easily take it wherever you want. However, at the downside, you may not be pleased by the fact that the unit is difficult to oil. Moreover, it also gets overheated. The brand needs to work at both these points and make them better for their customers.
Pros |
---|
Available with different capacities |
Powerful |
Briggs & Stratton Engine |
Versatile |
Dual log cradles |
4-way wedge |
U-beam structural design |
Log spinner footplate |
Portable |
Cons |
---|
Gets overheated |
Difficult to oil |
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3.RuggedMade
The RuggedMade’s portfolio consists of impeccable outdoor control equipment. Developed in 2007 in the Boston region, they ship from their Massachusetts, Oregon, and Tennessee warehouses to customers across the whole world. RuggedMade equipment will aid you in tackling the toughest things. They have been developing creative goods for over a decade now. The brand is working closely with a selected group of top manufacturers to guarantee that its products offer extraordinary toughness and performance at unmatched prices. They are standing behind everything that they are selling and stocking replacement parts to keep your machine working endlessly in the field. RuggedSplit wood splitters are among the industry’s highest-rated splitters and most preferred.
While on the other hand, the extended list of exceptional features that this unit holds will undoubtedly succeed in winning your heart. With a splitting capacity of 22 tons, this unit looks impressive enough to offer you promising results and efficient operation. Moreover, the electric start engine of this machine is faster and better than many others available in the market. The power of this engine is 6.5 HP, and 212CC is truly commendable. Other than this, another positive point is about the blade featured in this splitter. The powerful engine, in combination with the 4-way blade, is exceptional in cutting wood no matter how hard it is. Furthermore, as the manufacturers have built this unit quite sturdily, you do not have to worry about the longevity that it offers.
Apart from this, the RuggedMade splitter also holds a unique and facilitating feature. The log lift that comes installed in this product will help in reducing your workload if you do not want to lift up those heavy logs. Moreover, it also comes with a log tray included. These features hold your logs for you so that you can get more ease in using the machine. In addition to this, the two-stage thirteen GPM pump also contributes to making your machine operate more effectively. As the cycle time of this product is only 11 seconds, you will get to work faster with it. Other than this, the unit is portable as well. You can easily tow it to move it around. The manufacturers also offer a year of warranty on all the parts.
In a nutshell, the RuggedMade log splitter is a powerhouse with multiple other qualities. The fact that this machine holds a 4-way blade will deliver quality splitting no matter how hard the wood is. The high splitting capacity of this unit will make sure that you get a performance that you are expecting. Moreover, the fast functionality that you are going to get with this system in combination with the towing facility will make you hooked to it. However, on the other end, you will have to hire someone for its assembly as it is quite hard due to many parts for anyone to assemble.
Pros |
---|
22 Tons of capacity |
6.5 HP 212CC Electric Start Engine |
4-Way Blade |
Log Lift |
Catcher Tray |
2 Stage 13 GPM Pump |
Fast |
Portable |
One Year warranty on parts |
Cons |
---|
Professional help needed for assembly |
4.North Star
Northern Tool + Equipment is one of the best family-owned businesses in the sector. The brand has immense pride in itself due to its ability to empower you with the necessary tools to handle difficult challenges. They strive to build enduring environments that promote a new and interesting experience in the Northern region. The company is operating more than 100 shops, and it is continuing to grow more as well. The owner’s commitment is to deliver the most exceptional customer experience in retail outlets. More than 60,000 items available to order directly from NorthernTool.com as well. For more than 35 years, this company known as Northern Tool has been serving its customers.
Despite all these flaws, a massive portion of the user-end seems quite happy with this unit. Their satisfaction is due to the presence of various appealing features that you will get with this system. The massive capacity of 37 tons makes this unit highly efficient and ideal for work on a massive scale. Other than this, another impressive fact is that this unit is portable as it comes with sturdy wheels on it. Furthermore, it is also towable so that you can attach it to your vehicle and take it where needed easily. The versatile nature of this product is yet another plus point. You can use it as a vertical as well as a horizontal system as per your work’s requirement.
Apart from this, the immensely powerful high output Honda engine featured in this unit will perform to fulfill all your expectations. As this unit is quite fuel-efficient, you will have no problem regarding this aspect. Additionally, unlike many other gas-powered options, this one is relatively quiet in its operation. Hence, you will not have to face much disturbance. As it features a 4-way wedge system, it is potentially capable of splitting even the hardest of the logs. The log tables are there as well. These tables help in preventing your logs from rolling off. In addition to all these positives, you will also get a premium filtration system for the oil in this device. In this way, the particles will get separated, and you will be able to enjoy a long period of exceptional services.
The North Star is one of the main competitors in the market. This system has been doing great in the industry with all the brilliant features that it arrives with. From engine to splitting capacity, every aspect of this machine will leave you hooked to it. The construction quality of the parts that come along does not remain behind and helps the unit to offer a longer-lasting lifespan. However, the decals are not that durable. They are likely to peel off quite early. With the help of the versatile nature, you will find every service from this machine. But, the engine also gets heated, so be careful there.
Pros |
---|
37 tons of capacity |
Portable and towable |
Versatile |
High Output Honda Engine |
Fuel-Efficient |
Relatively lower sound |
4-way wedge system |
Log tables |
Premium filtration system |
Cons |
---|
Professional assembly required |
Non-durable decals |
Engine heats up |
Leakage might take place |
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5.Southland Outdoor
Southland Outdoor Power Equipment is one of the best-known brands in this field. The company has been working quite hard to establish a trustworthy image amongst the competitive market. The highly-efficient products that the manufacturers have launches enabled the brand to stand at a notable position in the sector. Today, the brand has a popular profile and is continuing to enhance its work so that it can be the best throughout the globe. The team at Southland Outdoor Power Equipment is hard-working and immensely talented as well. Here is a log splitter by this company and our take on it.
Whereas, the brighter end of this product brings much to your table as well. With all the priceless features, you will get high-end functionality. Let us talk about the engine first. The 280cc Southland OHV gas engine is featured in this unit so that you can get the highest output with this machine. Moreover, the large capacity of 25 tons that this unit holds will suit all your working needs effortlessly. With this capacity, you can use the system for heavy and small scale use as well. The versatile nature of this product will offer you ease in dealing with heavy logs, as you can convert this splitter from horizontal to a vertical system and vice versa quite easily. The sharpness of the blade featured in it will efficiently cut all sorts of logs.
Apart from this, you will also get a pretty fast functionality through this unit. As the cycle time of this machine is only 17 seconds, and it also features automatic returns, you will have a fast operation with this product. Furthermore, the internal oil delivers a system that this unit holds will also contribute in enhancing its performance. With this system, it gets the perfect lubrication as needed. In this way, the engine will not get overheated, and the performance will remain robust for the long-term. Moreover, the sturdy pneumatic wheels on this product make it highly portable. The hitch present on this makes it towable as well. Plus, the manufacturers offer three years of warranty on frame, two years of warranty on the engine, and one year of warranty on hydraulics with this splitter as well.
Southland Outdoor is one of the top-most products that are available in the sector. With the highly functional engine and 25 tons of capacity, this unit is capable of delivering you all that you want from your device. With the fast operation and portable design, a complete package of perfection, a high-value product is waiting for you under the banner of Southland Outdoor. Moreover, the warranty is there for you to enjoy a risk-free experience as well. There is a downside to it as well. But it is not too serious about impacting your decision. You might face some difficulty in the assembly. Plus, the engine might take some time to warm-up, but the outcome is worth everything as well.
Pros |
---|
208cc Southland OHV gas engine |
25 tons of capacity |
Internal oil delivering system |
Fast |
Automatic returns |
Versatile |
Pneumatic wheels |
Towable |
Three years of warranty on frame |
Two years of warranty on the engine |
One year of warranty on hydraulics |
Cons |
---|
Difficult to assemble |
Needs time to warm up |
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6.Boss Industrial ES7T20
BOSS Industrial is one of the leading suppliers to industry throughout Australia for industrial hardware equipment and safety products. The brand’s extensive range of products and tremendous stock holding, along with the best professional service and turnaround times, empowered BOSS Industrial to become the main provider to the manufacturing, engineering, and construction markets. BOSS Industrial has the finest products and rates to sell. Its professional team is focused on trade and industry, providing the highest level of present information and service. Out of all the exceptionally launched products by this brand, our take on the Boss industrial ES7T20 is given below.
However, the upside of this log splitter holds several impressive features as well. All these pros contribute to saving the image of this equipment. So, let us have an insight into all the benefitting features. First of all, the convenience that you will get while starting it may attract you. For starting this machine, you will only need to push an electric button. Other than this, as it is a relatively smaller unit, it requires a one-handed operation only. This factor will also grant you ease in working with it. In addition to convenience, you will also get the required power with this machine. The two HP electric motor installed in this machine is sufficient to offer you the needed power for domestic or small-scale use.
Other than the powerful motor, you will also get fast operation. The automatic ram return system is there to offer you quick functionality. As the machine also features tube log holders, the wooden logs will not roll off from the system. Plus, there is a separate oil tube installed as well. This tube helps in filtering the inlet for better functionality. Seven tons of splitting force will be enough for your personal use as well. As there are wheels on this system, you can easily take it anywhere you want. Hence, you will also get high portability with this model. A major plus point that it holds is that there is no need to assemble this unit as it comes pre-assembled. The warranty tag of two years on this product will make you feel relaxed as well.
All in all, the Boss Industrial ES7T20 will offer you some of the most appealing and convenient features in combination with some serious disadvantages as well. You will love the fact that this unit is easy to start and operate as far as the positive side is concerned. Moreover, you will be pleased with the fact that it is powerful enough to offer you great functionality in domestic use. The inlet filter will enhance the life of the unit as well. But, on the downside, the lacking quality and less-lasting nature of this product will leave you unpleased as well. If quality is above everything for you, then this option is not appropriate for your use. Moreover, it is also important to remember that it will not work efficiently for large-scale or commercial-scale projects.
Pros |
---|
Easy starting system |
One-Handed operation |
2 HP electric motor |
7 tons of splitting force |
Automatic ram return |
Tube log holders |
Inlet filter |
Portable no assembly required |
Two years of residential warranty |
Cons |
---|
Cannot handle larger logs |
Poor quality |
Not too durable |
Can get uncomfortable to operate given the fact that you operate it while sitting down/td> |
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7.Powerhouse XM-580
Powerhouse Log Splitters are the core of what a functional log splitter must deliver in the latest times. Powerhouse Log Splitters has made a phenomenal impact on customers around the globe with the help of its innovative, functional, and efficient product line-up. Despite its fresh evolution on the world stage, Powerhouse has continued to work harder so that they can make themselves even better. The newly launched log splitters by this brand have set a new standard in the world of power tools for convenience, innovation, quality, and aesthetics. Powerhouse log splitters are a marvel in wood splitting technologies, and the happiness of user-end proves it right.
Whereas, the brighter end of the Powerhouse XM-580 log splitter has numerous plus points that can easily attract you. You will love the fact that this unit comes with four horsepower and 2900 watts of electric motor. So, there is no need to worry about the expense that you will have to do due to the fuel consumption of your machine. Moreover, the nine tons of splitting force that this unit holds is enough for you to use it for domestic purposes. Furthermore, as this unit comes with a patented hydraulic system, it will work more efficiently. The torque increases by 45% with the help of this efficient system. As it is a system with an electric motor, you will get a quiet operating environment as well.
Other than the impressive system, you will also get a much friendly environment with this unit. As it does not operate on gas, you will not have to deal with the emission of any harmless fumes. These characteristics help in making the unit friendly for use outdoors and indoors as well. Other than this, it is highly functional in cutting softwood and log that are smaller in size. Apart from this, you will also get high portability with this machine. It comes with wheels installed in it. You can easily take it anywhere with you. Furthermore, you will also be able to use it with much ease. You can easily use your foot to operate it while it is on the ground. Plus, you will not have to spend much on this unit as well.
All in all, this log splitting model, named Powerhouse XM-580, is yet another unit that gives you enough engine efficiency and power to effectively carry out all the tasks that are based on a smaller scale. The ease of use that you will get with this system is unmatchable as well. Moreover, the environment that you will get while using this machine will be free of fumes and noise. The high portability that it grants you will also help you in taking it anywhere you want. However, on the downside, you may have to deal with leakage issues and not so impressive quality as well.
Pros |
---|
4HP and 2900 Watts of motor |
9 tons of splitting force |
Patented hydraulic system |
Quiet operation |
No fumes |
Can be used indoor and outdoor |
Portable |
Convenient to use |
Affordable |
Cons |
---|
May arrive with missing parts |
Quality is not impressive |
Not ideal for large logs |
Leakage issue |
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8.WEN Lumberjack 56207
Originally established by Nick Anton earlier in 1951, WEN made its impression by helping to put together equipment and electricity, so that the customers can get innovative and facility, all in one. For decades they have been creating and supplying power tools with the best possible quality at the most affordable price range. Their team that has been working on the research and designing played a significant role in assisting improve a range of common everyday tools. At present, the offices of WEN are based in Elgin, Illinois. Their goal is to help carpenters and woodworkers around the globe conduct their wildest fantasies.
However, being unfair to this product is not what we want. So, now, let us throw some light on the upside of the Lumberjack 56207 log splitter as well. The features that it possesses at the brighter end are truly undeniable. The powerful 15A electronic motor featured in this unit is where all the magic takes place. This efficient motor drives the whole system to offer you promising splitting. The pressure that this unit holds for cracking is up to 13,000 pounds. Hence, it is not an under power unit at all. Other than this, you will get yet another facility with this unit. It comes with a sturdy stand with 34 inches of height. With this stand, you will get more versatility, as it can be removed or placed back as per you feel convenient.
Apart from power and pressure, you will also be able to take this unit wherever you want. The machine comes with sturdy wheels beneath it so that the user can take it where it is needed. Furthermore, there is a carrying handle present as well, so that you can easily hold this device. The auto-return push plated featured in this unit makes the overall image of this device even more appealing. As it features a 5-inch wedge, it is easy for it to split through all sorts of wood or logs. The spacious design of this system makes it able to handle larger logs as well. So you can easily split logs having width up to 10 inches and a length of 20.5 inches with this splitter. The low cost of this unit makes it even more attractive for the customers.
In a nutshell, the Lumberjack 56207 by WEN is yet another product that is available on the market with some primary issues that may disappoint you and some extraordinary benefits that will undoubtedly attract you. The portable nature of this system will make your job easier for you. As it comes with a stand of 34 inches, you will get more convenience in using it. The powerful motor and a capacity of 6.5 tons will be perfect for medium-scaled splitting. But, the downside cannot be ignored as well, as there are quality control and durability issues there. If you require a top-quality and durable machine, then this one is certainly not what you are looking for.
Pros |
---|
Powerful 15A motor |
13,000 pounds of cracking pressure |
34-inch removable stand |
Portable |
Low in cost |
Auto-Return push plate |
5-Inch Wedge |
Carrying handle |
Spacious |
Cons |
---|
Non-durable functionality |
May arrive damage |
Difficult to assemble |
Poor quality |
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9.PowerSmart PS90
PowerSmart USA has produced a wide range of fully functional outdoor power equipment, from snow blowers, lawnmowers, yard cleanup tools, and more. The team at PowerSmart has dedicated their careers to providing the best quality products and reliable customer service at the lowest possible price, with a trained, efficient, and highly intelligent staff. PowerSmart USA is managed by Amerisun Inc., and it has its headquarters in Itasca, Illinois. The brand has been into the production of functional log splitters for many years. With numerous successful models on the market, this company has proven its expertise in this field. Here, we have discussed all the aspects of PowerSmart PS90.
Whereas, a protracted list of beneficial aspects at the upside of the PowerSmart PS90 log splitter is awaiting your attention. The power that you will get with this unit might not be appropriate for commercial use, but it is sufficient for small jobs. The PowerSmart PS90 features a powerful 1.75 HP and 15 Amp electric motor in it. This motor drives the whole system to work efficiently. Moreover, you will get a maximum force of 6 tons with this unit as well. With such high force, this machine is ideal for domestic use too. Other than this, the device is able to wrap up your work quite quickly as it has a cycle time of only 20 seconds.
Apart from the fast functionality and sufficient power, the main highlight is that this unit is capable of handling large logs as well. You can use this splitter to cut logs that are 21 inches in their length and 10 inches in their diameter as well. The highly portable nature that you will get with this unit will also impress you. As it featured sturdy wheels, you can easily move it to reach distant working areas as well. As it is an electronic system, you do not need to worry about the maintenance, unlike the gas-powered systems. Moreover, this machine operates silently as well and does not produce fumes. Hence, it will be quite easy for you to deal with it no matter if you are working indoors or outdoors. Plus, as this device is not much pricey, your pocket will not get burdened at all.
In a nutshell, the PowerSmart PS90 arrives with numerous pros and some disappointing cons as well. At the positive end, you will definitely love the powerful and efficient work that it offers you. As it is a fast system, it will also save you much time of yours. The fact that it can handle larger logs makes it even more likable. Other than this, the company also backs this unit with a warranty tag of two years. However, at the downside, the cheap quality bolts and damaging delivery services might put you off as well.
Pros |
---|
Powerful 1.75 HP and 15 Amp motor |
6 Tons of max force |
20-second cycle time |
Handles large logs easily |
Portable |
No fumes |
No fumes |
Not expensive |
Two years of warranty |
Cons |
---|
May arrive damaged or with missing parts |
Too low |
Cheap quality bolts |
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10.Sun Joe LJ10M
Snow Joe is also known by the name, Sun Joe is the famous company that specializes in creating and designing premium quality, revolutionary, and inexpensive outdoor devices to keep its customers hooked to the stunning facilities that they offer all year long, whether it is the for the snow to fall or the sun to shine. The Snow Joe Company was founded in 2004 and has launched many successful products to expand its brilliant line-up of advanced units. The company knows its consumers’ desires and works towards producing accordingly. Let us present our detailed take on the Sun Joe LJ10M splitter model.
However, at the brighter end of the Sun Joe LJ10M, you will be able to come across many exceptional and quality features as well. So, let us get a sneak peek to the upside of this model. This hydraulic system is quite powerful and capable of function well as per one’s expectations. The unit works with a driving force of 10 tons. For such a unit, this is immense power, and as a result, you will be able to easily and efficiently complete your task. The large capacity that this model offers is one of the best things about it. You can insert logs with 18 inches of length and 8 inches of width into this system.
Furthermore, the RAM return string that is featured in this machine helps in making it ready for the next coming log as quickly as possible. The steel frame construction of this machine makes it stand against all the odds and work for you in the toughest conditions as well. Apart from this, there are wheels installed on this device, as well. So, you do not have to worry regarding portability, as you can take this unit anywhere you need. In addition to this, it is designed in such a way that you will get the highest level of convenience in using it. The log cradle is there as well. It will prevent the logs from rolling away from the system. As this unit is affordable, you will not have to put a burden on your pocket. The manufacturers back this log splitter with a warranty of two years as well.
The Sun Joe LJ10M log splitter is one of the most compact yet powerful options available out there. However, this unit does hold some primary issues as well. At the upside, you will love how well the manufacturers have made it. They have loaded it with multiple facilitating features so that you can get the best possible functionality in combination with the utmost level of convenience. But, on the other hand, you will not be impressed by its slow processing speed and poor wheels as well.
Pros |
---|
Powerful |
10 Tons of driving force |
Large capacity |
RAM return spring |
Steel frame construction |
Wheels for easy portability |
Easy to use |
Log cradle |
Affordable |
Two years of warranty |
Cons |
---|
Slow |
Poor wheels |
Breaks down easily |
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Log Splitters – The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
Log splitters have many detailed aspects to them. Every dimension is essential in determining the operation that you will be able to get and the outcome that you will have. Here is a compiled list of all the vital points that demand special attention for the customer end. This list will make you go through every important detail, and as a result, you will be able to find the best for yourself. So, without delaying it further, let us begin to go through the ultimate buying guide for log splitters.
Type of splitter:
Log splitters are divided into two main types:
- Gas-powered log splitter
- Electronic log splitter
The first question that arises into one’s mind when buying a log splitter is about choosing a log splitter that uses electricity to be powered or a gas splitter. We will have to dig closely at both of these styles and their services to make the right choice.
Gas-powered log splitter:
Gas-based log splitters are appropriate for larger, more enormous logs, as they can effectively split the strong pieces of wood. These come in a range of models: regular hydraulic models, two-way separation models, super-fast kinetic models as well as horizontal-vertical models.
Gas log splitters are comparatively stronger and work with more power. These splitters can be used up to 34 tons, whilst the number of tons can be even higher for commercial usage. They have increased log potentials. For logs having a diameter that is larger than 12 inches and length with more than 20 inches, you will undoubtedly need a gas-powered log splitter. Plus, you don’t need to worry about being near a power socket.
While on the downside, such units are quite pricey and heavier so it might be harder to ship them as well. They demand a continuous maintenance routine and are not suitable for indoor work because of the fumes they generate and the loud noise they make.
Pros:
- Gas log splitters are relatively more powerful. Gas log splitters are usable up to 34 tons from about 8 tons, while for commercial units, the number of tons can be even higher.
- Greater log capacities.
- You’ll definitely need a gas-powered log splitter for logs greater than 12 inches in diameter and 20 inches in length.
- You do not need to be close to a socket for power.
Cons:
- More costly. Gas-powered log splitters are significantly more expensive because they are usually stronger and more powerful than electric ones.
- Gas splitters require regular maintenance. As with any system that possesses a combustion engine, gas log splitters may regularly need oil changes, air filter improvements, spark plug repairs, and gasoline additions
- Not ideal for indoor use or with animals.
- Louder as compared to the electric splitters.
- Heavier to ship. They are not as portable as the electric models.
Electric log splitter:
Electric log splitters operate exactly the way a splitter powered with gas does. The primary distinguishing characteristic they possess, as the name suggests, is indeed the source of power. Such splitters utilize electricity to drive the whole machine instead of utilizing a combustion engine that requires gas as the main energy source. Such devices will work by getting connected to every standard functioning socket.
The main benefits that these machines offer include the fact that these can function anywhere if there’s a standard socket available. The operation can be carried out indoor as well as outdoor. Another positive point is that these will not disturb you at all, as they operate silently. Hence, there is no need to worry about your pets being scared or inconvenient for your neighbors. Moreover, these are relatively cheaper as well. You will get these versions in relatively lightweight and compact designs, and they won’t require service of the motors, addition of fuel, and adjustment of the gasoline as well.
While on the other hand, there are some disadvantages as well. If you compare these to gas log splitters, you will find out that the power of these machines is less. The level of gas-powered ones can reach up to 34 tons or above, while an electric log splitter with a level of only over about 10 tons will be rare. Usually, they have poorer logging capabilities.
Pros:
- It can be used wherever a regular socket is available, indoors, outdoors, in your garage, and anywhere around.
Another plus point is that it operates silently; your pets won’t get afraid as with the noisy machines, and the neighbors won’t get - upset with you as well.
- Cheaper than the gas-powered versions.
- Lighter, portable, and more compact.
There is no need to adjust the gasoline, add more fuel or service the motor.
Cons:
- The power that these machines possess is less as compared to gas log splitters.
- On one side, gas log splitters are accessible at the stage of 34 tons and above, while on the other hand, an electric log splitter above about 10 tons would be uncommon to see.
- Typically have a lower capacity for logging.
- Gas-powered splitters can handle logs with a diameter of 18′′ and a length of 25′′, whereas electric log splitters can usually handle stumps with a diameter of 12′′ and a length of 20′′.
Power:
A log splitter needs to be powerful enough without straining to move through heavy, wet timber. For this purpose, you can only go for a log splitter with ample strength to move through the toughest work. Consider the cumulative force of splitting, amps, and overall horsepower, and pick one that is appropriate for your needs.
Size and portability:
Log splitters are typically very broad in scale, and this factor can make them take up a lot of room in your shed or workspace. If you want a simple log splitter to chop firewood for your home chimney, this factor is highly important to consider. Hence, it is compulsory for you to check the log splitter’s size and shape factor before purchasing one.
Moreover, the size of this machine will also determine the ease that you will get in moving around with the device. Some of these models also come with the facility of wheels beneath them. This factor will aid you in moving the machine around. Hence, you will get higher portability.
Force Rating:
If you’re purchasing an electronic or hydraulic splitter, it’s incredibly necessary to test the force level. It means ensuring that you will not run into any performance problems while trying to cut pieces logs that are large or heavy. Typically a log splitter’s force rating is given either as six tons or seven tons. Some of the options for log splitter out in the market are even with a force rating of 10 tons. A higher force level of 10 tons is the best choice as it helps you to break all sorts of wood parts quickly and effectively. While using your log splitter’s controls, you can change this force rating as per your need.
Quality:
While one is in between the process of purchasing anything, one of his major or maybe the foremost concerns is about the quality of the product. This point is particularly important as it will determine the impact of many other features and aspects of the unit. Only a product that has premium quality will be able to stand up to your expectations. This factor also ensures the durability of your machine. So, do pay special attention to the construction and materials of the device. No matter how fantastic the specs are, a low-quality machine will not gain success in impressing you at all.
Durability:
Many of you who are acquainted with the cutting procedure of logs and wood need to note that such will bring a lot of wear and tear to the operating tool. This is particularly the case if you use the log splitters to cut large and hard pieces of log. Therefore the longevity of a given log splitter must be taken into consideration before you buy it. You can confirm this factor easily by taking a look at the duration of the guarantee it offers. While most powered ones come with two years of warranty, due to their simple and straight forward design, some manual log splitters come with a 5 years of long warranty duration as well.
Capacity:
If you want to use a log splitter to cut large pieces of log, then you should also check its capacity. A log splitter’s capability basically informs you about the maximum assisted size of the wooden logs you will fit within it. This capacity rating is stated in inches, and it is common for one to find them as 16 inches or 18 inches in length. Likewise, the supported log width you can blend within a log splitter is given as six inches or eight inches. Whereas a greater ability helps you to split bigger logs, the total form factor of a specified log splitter would also be impacted.
Budget:
This can’t simply be overlooked when purchasing a wood splitter. These splitters are absolutely budget-friendly, so they won’t dig a hole in your pocket. However, it is important to always check for the price of any of these items before adding it to your cart. Some are slightly more expensive than others, so it’s best to go for what suits your budget. If you are running a wood commercial business and looking to boost your sales there is no better option than invest in a high quality portable sawmills that you can take with you to the forest for wood splitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful of a log splitter do I need?
The more massive a log is, the higher the volume of wood on each side of the grain to break apart. Logs more enormous in diameter need more division force. So a 4-ton log splitter fits well for 6-inch nodes, but a 24-inch tree trunk requires at least 20-ton of splitter force.
How does a manual hydraulic log splitter work?
When it comes to a manual hydraulic log splitter, it makes use of hydraulics to cut the log. Such splitting machines are manually operated, pumping handles back and forth, similar to pumping a jack-up. The hydraulic piston pushes the timber, separating the wood by a slice.
Are log splitters worth the money?
Many different companies have put their efforts in the making of efficient log splitters. All of them out in the market differ in specifications and offer unique benefits. If you choose the right machine with the help of thorough research, it will provide you with great value. Look for a combination of quality, functionality, and durability, and your decision will prove worth it in the long run.
The Conclusion
Buying such large scale products is never an easy job. For choosing the correct option, you will have to be quite skeptical. Focusing on even the most trivial aspects can be of great help to you. So, in order to get the best option, you will have to pay special attention to every dimension, including capacity, power, type, etc. We are quite optimistic that our detailed buying guide will help you much in making the right decision and get the best outcome.
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