Updated on August 10, 2020
Today, we’re going to feature on ten best log splitters that you could own which is a rather interesting thought to think upon because “winter is coming.”
As October has already kicked in and during the evenings you can now feel that long awaited chill in the wind that flows through you when you’re coming back from work or even having your evening cup of coffee at the balcony.
It is going to be fully fledged winter sooner than you think, and what comes first to mind in a season like winter, is a fireplace with warm log fires, in front of which you can and sit and relax with a cup of hot coffee.
But, in order for your home to have a full stock of wood throughout the season, you will need the best log splitter for home use because thanks to technology, we no longer need to go through the trouble with the axe and all those back pain.
In A Hurry? Here Is Our Top 3 Recommended Log Splitter
Comparison Chart
Editor Choice
Champion 25-Ton Horizontal Gas Log Splitter
Great Log Splitter for the Money. Easy to use and can handle 24 inch logs easily
- Handles logs up to 19 inches long, weighing up to 50 pounds
- 2-year warranty with FREE lifetime technical support
- 10 in. Never Flat Wheels
Top Choice
Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter
Durable, lightweight and powerful tool. I was splitting 20″ pine logs with ease.
- Compact and durable, lightweight enough to be moved around by one person
- One-handed operation
- 2-year warranty
- Split logs up to 20.5 inches
Best Value
WEN 56207 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter
I’m on 5 years now with the WEN, and this splitter works just as good as the big ones.
- Log Cutting Capacity: up to 20 inches in Length and 12-inch in Diameter
- Small and lightweight
- Two-Hand Safety Control
Top 10 Best Log Splitters Reviews
Comparison Chart
PowerSmart Log Splitter, PS90 6-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter, Standard Size power log splitter, Color Red and Black, PS90
Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Electric
- Size: 40 x 13.5 x 20.5 inches
- Weight: 106 pounds
- Users can split woods both from outside and inside as well
- Patented hydraulic system technology
- Designed in a way it can be used hassle-free
- There will be a manual to guide you through
- Comes with a two-year warranty that is residential.
Boss is one of the most trusted brand names when it comes to electronic gears. So needless to say that log splitters produced by this company will also sustain the reputation. This machine by Boss is super powerful and are run by two horsepower electric motor.
It has a total splitting power of seven tons which very praise worthy. One of it’s most convenient features is, that it comes with a one handed operation. You will not be needing both hands to cut woods when you’re using this machine.
Another one of its very unique features is that the ram is automatically retuned. This is a feature that most of the other brands do not offer.
FAQ:
What’s the largest logs in diameter will this cut?
Up to 20 inch
How small can you split?
As small as you want. Just make sure to keep your fingers out of the way
Will this split dry live oak and mesquite?
Yes, absolutely. This is a great splitter
Can you leave this machine outside?
No, Absolutely not
What We Liked
- Automated ram return system
- Suitable to tackle lager fire woods
- Fast and time efficient
- There are side rails that are built in the machine
What We Did Not Like
- No wheels
Sun Joe LJ10M Logger Joe 10 Ton – Best Manual Log Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Manual
- Size: 41.1 x 8.1 x 11.8 inches
- Weight: 87 pounds
- For logs up to 18″ long x 8″ wide
- It has a full two years warranty
- Dependable performance and force system
- Compact size features.
- wheels for easy portability
- Log cradle prevents split wood from falling
Sun Joe’s hydraulic log splitters are very convenient for easy use and flexibility. This is one of the best manual wood splitters which can split logs that are a maximum of eighteen inches long and eight inches in width. This machine has a capacitor of ten tons which is very powerful when you’re getting down to business.
The powerful force will help to cut the logs in a smoother manner. The machine also has a cradle that helps the woods to stay still and makes sure it does not fall off.
The machine is pure steel made which guarantees quality because the plastic ones do not last for a longer period of time. It also has wheels that ensure safe and easy transporting advantages. There will be no need for gas nor cords or even oil.
FAQ:
Do you have to be strong to operate it?
I think it’s not hard to operate at all. The tool itself is heavy, but once it’s set where you want it, bring on the logs!
Will this split oak?
Yes, as long as the log is the right diameter and length for the splitter
How large of a log diameter can this split?
18 in. long x 8 in. wide
Is the hydraulic filled at purchase?
Yes, the unit will have a little it of oil to get started. But if you are going to use it for a long period please fill the unit with more oil.
What We Liked
- Generates up to ten tons of force at one go
- Logging on and off system when splitting
- Fast and durable, promises longer service and is efficient when it comes to time
What We Did Not Like
- The wheels are not rotatable
- No extra features for the comfort of your hands when holding them
Champion 25-Ton Horizontal/Vertical Full Beam-Best Gas Powered Log Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Gas
- Size: 71.3 x 28.3 x 19.1 inches
- Weight: 430 pounds
- For logs up to 22″ long
- It has a full two years warranty
- 25 tons of splitting capacity
- Converts from horizontal to vertical in seconds
- 12-second cycle time
- The auto-return valve is capable of 300 cycles per hour
If you need a heavy duty wood splitter to do the job, you may want to add the Champion 25T Full Beam Splitter in your shortlist! This machine is built to do the tough work in the shortest amount of time. With its height and ability to split in both horizontal and vertical position makes it easier for you because you do not have to continuously bend down and reach for the logs. Plus, imagine being able to cut 24-inch logs in just 12 seconds!
Apart from that, this machine also has an auto return valve which makes splitting wood much faster. When it comes to large logs, they can get heavy to lift and lay on the beam. With Champion, you do not have to worry about that at all. The machine is designed to allow vertical splitting which is a great plus for those need to cut down the large logs.
Need to bring this workhorse around? You do not have to worry about that too! This machine can be towed at the back of your vehicle and can run for up to 45mph! This might just be your all-purpose log splitter you can use outdoors and even in your home.
FAQ:
Is there a lot of assembly to it?
Simple to do. It only took my son and I 30 minutes to put together
How much horsepower ?
7.5
Does this unit have an hydraulic oil filter?
No
How many gallons of hydraulic fluid does it take?
5 gallons
What We Liked
- 25 Ton Ram Force
- 224cc Engine
- Vertical or Horizontal Use
- Up to 24” Split Length
- Auto Return Valve
- 300 cycles per hour
What We Did Not Like
- Noisy
- Produces smoke
YARDMAX YS0552 5 Ton Electric Log Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Electric
- Size: 38.5 x 28.2 x 39.2 inches
- Weight: 98 pounds
- Auto-Return 4-by-4-Inch Push Plate
- Side-Mounted Support Wings
- Powerful 15-amp Motor
- 13,000 pounds of Cracking Pressure
- 34-inch Mounting Stand
The Yardmax YS0552 is one of the unique looking and compact wood splitters out there. This is one of the best log splitter for home use or when you are out camping and you need firewood. It is easy to carry around due to its compact size and it even has wheels attached. Plus, the stand is foldable too! You can choose to use it with the stand or just by itself, whichever is more comfortable for you! That is great versatility and setting them up would take less than 30 minutes which is not that big of a deal for some.
Despite its portability and small build, this machine does the job as efficiently as any other splitters. The Yardmax YS0552 can split up logs in 16 seconds which is not bad at all compared to others similar to its class.
Have you ever experienced splitting logs and making a mess out of all the split logs? Sometimes they even fall on your foot too!
While those situations are common, they can be unpleasant. The thing is, you do not have to go through that again with the YS0552! The product comes with a tray table so you can do the job safer and cleaner.
FAQ:
Can it be stored vertically?
Yes
How does this do with Green wood?
Just fine, depending on the width of course
Does it come with hydraulic fluid or do i need to buy it?
Yes, it come with hydraulic fluid
What is max log size for this splitter?
Max is 10 inches in diameter and 20.5 inches long.
What We Liked
- 5 Ton Ram Force
- Up to 25” Split Length
- Has Stroke Limiter
- Includes Log Catcher
- Two-Handed Operation
- Motor does not make much noise
What We Did Not Like
- The stand is a bit short
Powerhouse PS90 6 Ton
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Electric
- Weight: 118 pounds
- It comes with a patented technology of being a 9 ton machine
- Both hands will be needed for operation, eliminating any injuries that should take place
- Lesser effort will be made in an even lesser time,
- Auto return valve
- It consists of a hydraulic ram and strong electric power.
If you have been using gas-powered log splitters since day 1, you know how their power is unmatched by their electric counterpart. Well, get ready to be proven wrong. The Powerhouse XM-580 boasts a 9-ton ram force which makes log splitting as fast as 15 seconds! What makes this even more special is the fact that it is foot-powered, which gives you more leverage and you do not have to always bend down to operate it and pick up the logs.
With a patented hydraulic system, the torque is impressively 45% higher compared to other of its type. Not to mention, the XM-580 also has an auto return valve which doubles up the speed and makes it more convenient for you. Plus, the XM-580 would not require you to use air compressors too!
Since you are most probably using this in your own homes as well, the Powerhouse has designed the XM-580 to work indoors as well. This produces no fumes at all. Plus, this has a noiseless operation so you can continue with your task without disturbing anyone. More importantly, you do not need to worry about gas too. This tool just needs to be plugged and you are ready to go!
FAQ:
What is the voltage?
It runs on 110v
What is the maximum log length that can be split?
20 inch
What kind of warranty this splitter has?
The total warranty is 1 year, six months covers repairs that are needed after that up to a year isparts only.
Does this have a two speed operation?
No, one speed fits all.
What We Liked
- Time-efficient will cut up to a hundred logs within an hour
- Would not make too much noise
- Would not cause headache or backache
- Safety measures are there.
- 4 HP, 6 Ton Ram Force
- Patented Hydraulic System
- Up to 21” Split Length
What We Did Not Like
- Hydraulic fluid may leak
Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Electric
- Size: 37.7 x 11.8 x 18.5 inches
- Weight: 105 pounds
- Heavy duty 1.75 HP
- Effortlessly split big logs with a 18-second cycle time
- Adjust to a shorter stroke for smaller logs
- 7″ wheels and configuration to vertical position
- The heavy duty 5″ steel wedge splits logs quickly & easily
The SELS60 is one of the most compact yet efficient available in the market. With a 1.75HP engine, it can split logs in as fast as 18 seconds which is not bad compared to other splitters of its type. If you do not mind the speed, this can make a good one for home use.
Another thing worth noting with this product is that it comes with a stroke limiter which means you can cut through smaller logs faster. It does not come with an auto return valve though which is a trade off. However, this does not need gas to operate which makes it safe for residential use. You do not even have to worry about operating this inside your workshop because it does not release fumes.
One of our major concerns with this machine is storage and transport. Most splitters need a dedicated space and are quite too heavy to move around with. However, with the SELS60, you can keep it inside the cabinet because it can be easily switched to a vertical position. Plus, it comes with 7” never-flat wheels which makes it easier for you to move it around your workplace.
FAQ:
What is the voltage?
It runs on 120v
Does this splitter have an auto-retract feature?
Yes
What length log does it split?
20 inches
Does this have a two speed operation?
No, one speed fits all.
What We Liked
- 6 Ton Ram Force
- 15 amp induction motor
- Up to 25” Split Length
- Adjustable Integrated Stroke Limiter
- Vertical Storage Position
What We Did Not Like
- Ram can get difficult to retract
WEN 56207 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Electric
- Size: 38.5 x 28.2 x 39.2 inches
- Weight: 98 pounds
- Auto-Return 4-by-4-Inch Push Plate
- Side-Mounted Support Wings
- Powerful 15-amp Motor
- 13,000 pounds of Cracking Pressure
- 34-inch Mounting Stand
The WEN 56207 is not the fastest and most powerful machine of its kind but it does a good job for residential use. Despite its small build, this machine gets the job done as much as the others do. This product can be disassembled for easy storage and portability. Plus, it comes with wheels and handle for easier maneuverability.
The WEN 56207 takes about 20 seconds to split each log. Although it is not the fastest in this list, the amount of time is still good compared to when you had to manually cut down wood. It is not really too slow but if you have used other log splitters, you might notice the difference. On the brighter side, it does come with an auto return cylinder which makes your work a little bit faster and would require less manual labor.
While this machine can be considerably slower, it is not bad for residential use. In fact, it is designed for that as it operates with as little noise as possible. You do not need to worry about disturbing anyone when you just want to split wood for the fireplace. If you are concerned about its speed, if you have shorter logs, that would be better. You can just adjust the ram-limiting ring so you can split those shorter logs in a shorter cycle time.
FAQ:
Can it be stored vertically?
Yes
How does this do with Green wood?
Just fine, depending on the width of course
Does it come with hydraulic fluid or do i need to buy it?
Yes, it come with hydraulic fluid
What is max log size for this splitter?
Max is 10 inches in diameter and 20.5 inches long.
What We Liked
- 6.5 Ton Ram Force
- Auto Return Cylinder
- Up to 20.5” Split Length
- 15 amp motor
- Noiseless Operation
What We Did Not Like
- Slower compared to similar class
- Does not include log catcher
Champion 7-Ton Compact Horizontal Gas Log Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Gas
- Size: 53.1 x 23.6 x 18.1 inches
- Weight: 143.3 pounds
- Faster and time efficient
- Cycle Time – 20 seconds
- Recoil jump start system
- Low key design but very spacious and safe
- Comes with two year warranty and a lifetime of technical support advantage system.
This particular machine by Champion is another very productive log splitter. It comes with many unique features, starting with the fact that it is chemical resistant. It can be used with normal water, water from waste, salt water and also with mild acids and bases as well.
It generates one hundred and fifty four gallons of power in one minute and has an OHV operating engine.The machine is made of steel and includes a transparent water fitting system.
Basically, it is a feasible wood splitter if you’re looking for one that is in moderate budget and has moderate functions. Within all these requirements, this product is a one of the best log splitter on the market.
FAQ:
What max diameter of log on this model supported?
I have done 22 inch logs and it did great
Can you stand in on end to store it?
Not recommended
How much time does it take to assembly?
Took me approximately 2 hours. Best gas log splitter.
Does it work both horizontally and vertically ?
No, it only works horizontally
What We Liked
- It has a total of four strokes
- Consists of one cylinder only
- Well ventilated and operable in less oil
- Max Log Size – 19.3 in
- Max Pressure – 3000 psi
What We Did Not Like
- The wheels are not rotatable
- Comparatively heavier
Wel-Bilt Horizontal Manual Hydraulic Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Manual Hydraulic
- Size: 37.0″x12.2″x18.1″(LXWXH)
- Weight: 94 Pounds
- Durable and good quality
- Safe and very light.
- Quickly split logs 13 1/2in. to 18in.L with 6 1/2 dia.
- 2-speed pump builds up to 10 tons of log-splitting pressure
- 2 wheels for easy maneuverability
If you prefer cutting logs manually, the usual challenge lies in finding a decent manual log splitter that is capable of cutting larger pieces of wood. Fortunately, the Wel-Bilt Horizontal Manual Hydraulic Splitter is here to solve all your log-splitting woes.
This manual log splitter is capable of exerting a maximum splitting force of up to 10 tons. This is powerful enough to split large dry wood or smaller wet wood.
Despite its petite size, it can fit pieces of wood that are about 18 inches long. It also has a log cradle that securely holds the log in place, so you don’t have to worry about it falling out of its place during the splitting process. We also love that the Wel-Bilt Horizontal Manual Hydraulic Splitter can cut logs with diameters of up to 13.5 inches. This allows it to cut a variety of logs, ranging from small to medium-sized pieces.
Perhaps the only downside we can think of for this log splitter is that it would require a lot of effort from you in order to split dense and larger logs. But considering its affordable price, coupled with its convenient design and durable materials, it’s not really much of a downside.
FAQ:
Can this be stored in a garage that freezes during the winter?
Yes. it can
How small can you split with this unit?
Works great for logs up to about 3-4 inches.
What We Liked
- Ram capacity of 200mm
- It is able to cut logs up to eighteen inches
- Quick speed pump feature
What We Did Not Like
- It is a horizontal built machine
- Home friendly, not for professional use.
- No warranty
WEN 56222 Lumberjack Gas-Powered Log Splitter
Features & Tech Specs
- Type: Gas
- Size: 37.5 x 11.5 x 18 inches
- Weight: 100 pounds
- The product has been approved by CSA
- There is a two-year warranty
- The wheels will not get flat
- The motor is a total of 212cc Engine
- Portable with two comfort grip handles and 16″ tires.
- Hydraulic pressure: 3000 PSI
Wen’s electric log splitter comes with a very dependable 2 horsepower system. It does not have any complications regarding lack of gas and is comparatively sound friendly, meaning will not make much noise. It does not cost a fancy amount as well, you just need to set the plug and you are ready to go. It comes with great safety features such as it has a separate function to assist your hands so that it doesn’t get in the way when the machine is under action.
There is a built in space to assist or hold logs from ten inches to twenty inches in length, which is pretty great. It is also movable with comfortable grips so that your hands do not hurt and also it has wheels as well.
FAQ:
Can be stored vertically?
Yes, I store mine like that, but make sure the valve is closed.
Does this unit handle hardwoods?
Yes, No problem
What is the voltage required?
Standard 110v
What We Liked
- Copper coated machine
- Does not make too much noise, environment friendly
- Odor less and portable
- Safety measures are there
What We Did Not Like
- The wheels are not rotatable
- No customer support, only manual is there to help.
Read Also: How To Properly Maintain a Log Splitter
Things To Consider Before Buying a Log Splitter
Before buying one, it is important to know what are the things that should be taken into account before buying a log splitter:
Horsepower
It is very important to check on the horsepower and the tonnage of log splitter machines. Because they are found in several ranges of horsepower, you need to consider the force or the power necessary to cut the desired wood. So, it will depend on the woods that you’ll be working with.
Generally, it is wise to select an accurate wood splitter. If you have oak or woods like poplar to work on, then you will need some extra force in your machine to cut them properly.
If you’re not sure exactly how to pick the right power range, checking online is your best solution. There are many websites that have charts of materials and the required horsepower, so based on your needs, you can easily decide which one would be suitable for you.
As the power increases, so does the price of the product. But more often than not, a splitting machine with plenty of power is not needed, considering the fact you will only use them to make log fires and cut comparatively smaller woods. So, be wise to choose the best log splitter to buy so that you can save a few bucks from going to waste.
Size and weight
Make sure that the size and weight of the splitter are accurate to your demand. There isn’t such thing as right size and weight: your demands will depend on the materials you’ll be working with. But do check if the size and the weight are okay for you and are manageable should any hassles occur.
Power source
It is wise to buy electrical splitters as they are more powerful and are able to cut any sort of wood, be it huge or moderate in size. Thanks to this, electric splitters are considered to be one of the best wood splitters.
There are many other kinds of wood splitters like hydraulic or gas. There are also ones that are run manually. But manual splitters are not always appropriate as they can’t cut as long wood pieces as electrics can.
Wheels
Wheels are mandatory. It is very important to have wheels that are preferably rotatable: log splitters can get very heavy, and it is not always possible for one to carry them around. It would be very handy if there were wheels so that you can drag the splitter to wherever you need. No muss no fuss. The best wood splitters should have wheels on them.
Build materials
Make sure to buy log splitters that are made of steel. Plastic made product will die on you sooner, whereas the steel ones will serve for a lifetime. So it is best that you do not throw your money to the wind by buying plastic made splitters. Always buy the steel ones that will serve their purpose for a much longer period of time and will be worth the money as well. Pretty much a win-win situation here.
Noise
Now, let’s discuss the most obvious thing about a log splitter, that is, its noise. So, here’s the truth. There is almost no machine there that won’t produce a loud noise: almost all of them are pretty much the same. Which is obviously a problem because their noise is plain unpleasant and may even cause a headache.
However, there are machines that make less noise than the others. You are just going to have to find the right machine by making a market visit and finding out yourself which machine is making lesser noise.
Safety lock
A safety lock is a feature that just has to have. It is imperative because it is a matter of your own safety. Dangerous accidents may occur if the splitter doesn’t have one. The safety lock basically makes sure that the wood stays in place firmly and doesn’t move around.
Brand
Make sure that you are buying the best rated log splitter because brand value does matter. You can find a lot of products in the market from different brands.
Cheap splitters will serve their purpose for a noticeably shorter period of time. But if you buy a trusted brand, not only will it give you a good service, but it will also be very much sustainable as well. You would thereby want to check log splitter reviews before deciding to buy one.
Replacement parts
While you are at it, please do make sure that the parts are common on the market. If there aren’t humanproof13-20nt parts out there, then you’ll be in trouble if something breaks in your machine. That’s why you should make sure that the product parts are always accessible so that you can change them in the future if needed so.
Warranty
It is very important that your log splitter has a warranty card. That way, you could save some extra money in case any sort of inconvenience occurs. Usually, the branded products come with pretty long warranties. So, whenever buying one, make sure that you are getting a warranty as well.
Types of Log Splitters:
1. Electric:
It is very handy if you want your machine to weigh lighter or you are not comfortable with heavy machines. They are super efficient too. The price is reasonable, they do not produce toxic or irritating fumes or gas, makes very little noise and can be used in both outdoor and indoor. Very sound investment.
2. Gas:
These machines are super movable and do not even require electrical suppliers more often. Although they are bigger in size but are of heavy duty, meaning can cut bigger logs, and are ideal for camping or travelling. Also, you can use them whenever you want to. So, very easy going, these machines are.
3. Manual or Hydraulic:
These machines are for cutting rather small woods and logs, more user and budget friendly. Suitable for small residence as they won’t take much space and will not be as strong as the previously mentioned machines. Basically an ideal to serve the purpose but remember the fact that it will need manpower to be active.
4. Vertical & Horizontal:
It is mostly about positions of the machines. Horizontal splitters are best suited for homely use and not as powerful. And vertical wood splitters are more powerful to cut bigger and more rough woods. It is advised to use a chair or any supporting tool when operating these machines. So, vertical machines are for lighter work and horizontal machines are for the opposite. Although, some machines offer both.
Best Log Splitter Brands
The featured brands in this article are more or less the best log splitter brands that you could blindly choose from. The brands mentioned here are diversified so that customers can meet their requirements, budget, accessibility, and power range.
All things considered, these brands bring variety to the examined products, and customers can select one according to their needs.
When you choose a brand that you trust and have a positive experience with, you’ll have a much better time working with it. If you see a familiar brand that you’ve had a great experience with, then you most likely will be choosing it.
But what do you do if you are new to the market and know no brands?In that case, knowing a couple of big names would come in handy. Every brand featured on the reviews is worth your consideration, but we’d like to pinpoint 5 of them.
Wen
WEN is a pretty big brand, and the scope of their production goes well beyond log splitters. Power tools, chainsaws, generators, compressors – thanks to all this kind of stuff, WEN is a worthy competitor and sometimes even the better brand than such big names as Makita or Porter-Cable. These guys are really to be trusted.
WEN doesn’t have many models to look for, but they still have something for a wide range of applications, starting with the more affordable and low-volume 56206 we reviewed and ending with the 30-ton monster that is 56230. WEN really have a couple of splitters to boast.
Powerhouse
To be fair, Powerhouse has caused a little confusion in us. So there are several tool manufacturers named Powerhouse that are engaged in various fields like engine maintenance and whatnot, but the Powerhouse brand we want is specifically focused on log splitters.
A small company, Powerhouse-producer of splitters should be easier to resolve issues with. Too bad that they don’t offer warranties: at least, that was the case with the XM-380 we reviewed.For low-to med-volume projects, Powerhouse would be great. They are safe, have good performance, and are relatively inexpensive, so woodworkers on a budget would certainly appreciate their produce.
Champion
Champion is also a rather big player, but unlike WEN, it is focused on larger tools and equipment like generators, cultivators, snow blowers, etc. And besides, their assortment of logs splitters is quite large.
So we’ve just reviewed 2 Champion products, but did you know that they actually have 10 models? We examined their 7- and 22-ton models, but they also have larger 25-, 27-, and even 37-ton splitters.
They clearly have a focus on larger high-volume units, so you may want to opt for them if you have plenty of projects to do.And aside from that, Champion sells accessories for them like racks and covers, so you could get pretty much anything necessary from them.
Boss Industrial
Boss Industrial, just like Powerhouse, is also focused on log splitting machines. However, Boss Industrial’s catalog is much bigger, even bigger than that of Champion.
Not that much bigger though as Boss Industrial offers 12 models. They’ve got low- to mid-tonnage electric splitters, high-tonnage gas splitters, and even 3-points.
Aside from that, Boss Industrial – like Champion – offers accessories like wedges for cutting logs into 4 pieces, wheeled racks, trailer jacks, and protective covers.
Southland
Southland also focuses on heavier equipment and agricultural machines. When it comes to log splitters, they’ve got just two models – a 25-ton splitter that we reviewed and a smaller 6-ton. This isn’t much, but these two should suffice if they correspond to your needs.
FAQ- Log Splitter Common Questions
Log splitters are handy tools that we can use to chop up wood without exerting a lot of force. It can be used either for residential or commercial purposes, so you know that getting one is worth the investment.
However, not everyone is familiar with the concept of log splitters. In this article, I will answer the most common questions about wood splitters.
What is a log splitter?
A log splitter is a machine that chops up wood by pushing it against a sharpened wedge. It can either be powered manually, with electricity, or with a gas-powered engine.
Why you should own one?
We’ve seen enough reviews and about how to find the rightproduct. Now let’s get down to business and talk about WHY you should own one. Here are “three reasons why” you should buy one:
1. Your back and shoulders are important!
Like it or not, we are only growing old with time and as time passes by our body parts get weaker than it used to be. When you’re processing your fire woods by swinging the axe back and forth, it gives you a tremendous amount of pressure on your back, shoulders and even on your hands. So, why not save all that trouble and pain, and buy a log splitter instead?
2. You are running out of time!
Just think of all that time it would take to get those logs into shape by your hands. By the time you finish cutting the logs with your hands, a wood splitter machine would have had it finished with the cutting, the placing and you’d be enjoying your hot chocolate beside the fireplace. If not that, we hardly have time to take care of the basic necessities in life due to shortage of time. Cutting logs does not even seem like an option when you can have it done within minutes using a machine.
3. The logs and branches need to be an accurate size!
When you are surrounded with fire woods and you like your fireplace, you wouldn’t be able to help it, you would find yourself naturally gathering all those timber and trying to get something out of it. But unfortunately, it is not that easy. These timbers need to be at certain shapes and sizes to make the perfect logs for a fireplace which is not possible to get done by hands. And that’s when you need a log splitting machine to help you out with that situation.
What size log splitter do I need?
The size is measured in tonnage, which usually ranges from 4 tons to 27 tons or higher. And to determine the tonnage needed, we have to look into three factors: the wood’s diameter, its density, and the time it is left to dry.
The diameter can be simply determined by running a tape measure across the face of the log. Usually, logs with around 6-inch diameters or smaller only need 4-ton – and the tonnage increases as the diameter increases.
On the other hand, the wood’s density depends on the number of spaces it has between its fibers. The more compact the fibers, the harder the wood is – as a result, you would require higher tonnage for that. You can also refer to the Janka Hardness Test to determine the hardness of specific types of wood.
Finally, the time with which the log is left to dry after it was cut also determines the tonnage needed. Freshly-cut wood contains high moisture levels and cutting through it requires higher tonnage. Conversely, seasoned or dry wood requires less tonnage because it doesn’t contain as much moisture. Freshly cut wood usually has a greenish or yellowish hue, while seasoned wood appears brown.
Take all these factors into consideration to determine the appropriate size that you need.
What size hydraulic pump should I choose for log splitter?
The hydraulic pump you will use will determine the speed by which it functions. However, it would also depend on the volume of the hydraulic cylinder that you used.
To determine the hydraulic cylinder volume, the formula is: Pi multiplied by the radius squared multiplied by its stroke. After determining the volume, you can now look for the appropriate hydraulic pump for your cylinder.
The smaller the volume, the lesser flow you will need – where the flow is measured in gallons per minute or GPM. Smaller cylinders usually need 11 GPM, and this increases as the volume of the cylinder also increase.
How to change the hydraulic fluid in a log splitter?
The hydraulic fluid would require regular changing to make sure that it remains in tip-top shape.
To change the hydraulic fluid, you simply drain the old fluid from the tank and replace it with new fluid.
Make sure that you have an oil collection container under your tank as you drain the old fluid. Before allowing the oil to drain, you should disconnect the suction hose from the tank, remove the filter screen, and clean it with penetrating oil.
As to the type of hydraulic fluid, it is best to consult with your product manufacturer to make sure that you’re using the appropriate fluid for the unit.
How to split large logs with a log splitter?
Normally, logs are split by placing the log onto the log splitter’s container. However, larger logs tend to be impossible to carry and lodge onto the container. In this case, you should use a vertical log splitter that splits the wood at ground level.
As an alternative, you can also try to use kinetic log splitters. These splitters use bottled-up energy collected from flying spin wheels and then shoots it towards the log. As a result, splits larger logs faster than hydraulic splitters.
How do you adjust a log splitter valve?
The valve works to route the fluid from the pump to the hydraulic cylinder. Adjusting the valve either causes to increase or decrease the pressure exerted by the splitter.
To adjust the valve, twist clockwise if you want to increase the pressure. Conversely, twisting the valve counterclockwise decreases the pressure. However, this may still vary depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. You may adjust the valve with a screwdriver or wrench – depending on the type of valve used by the manufacturer.
How much pressure does it take to split a log?
The pressure needed to split a log depends on the density of the wood. Hardwood trees usually need around 20 tons of pressure to be chopped. Smaller softwood trees only require about 12 tons or less.
You may also consider the age of the wood to determine the pressure you need. Green wood, or freshly cut wood, contains higher levels of moisture which requires higher tonnage. On the other hand, seasoned wood which has been left to dry for about six months is easier to cut through. Therefore, seasoned wood requires less pressure to cut through.
What type of hydraulic fluid for log splitter?
The hydraulic fluid is the main energy transfer medium in the hydraulic system. Thus, it is important to determine the appropriate hydraulic fluid which works best with your pump.
There is no hard and fast rule to determine the hydraulic fluid that you need. However, it is best to consult with your manufacturer to make sure that you will use the best type of hydraulic fluid. Take note, however, that hydraulic oil is different from the hydraulic fluid.
How does a log splitter work?
The different types of log splitters work in different ways. Hydraulic splitters use a hydraulic cylinder which exerts pressure onto the wood to push it into a blade or any sharp split wedge. It can be powered with the use of a gas engine, or by plaguing it onto an electric power supply or by manual means.
On the other hand, kinetic work differently. As its name implies, these machines use spinning flywheels to gather energy. The collected energy is then blasted onto the log to cut it as swiftly as possible. Kinetic splitters tend to cut bigger pieces of wood in as little time as possible.
How can I speed up my wood splitter?
The speed by which a wood splitter functions depend upon the capacity of the hydraulic pump. If you wish to speed up your splitter, you can replace the pump with a higher flow compared to the original hydraulic pump.
Adjusting the pressure on your pump can also speed up your wood splitter. You can simply do so by turning the screw located on the hydraulic jack to increase the pressure. Generally, the screw is turned clockwise to increase the pressure, but may still depend on how it was built by your manufacturer.
Final Verdict
When shopping for the best log splitter, remember about safety first and foremost. Don’t scrimp on a good log splitter – opting for a cheap splitter that is inadequate for your log splitting tasks not only won’t allow you to work efficiently but also may bring forth safety hazards simply because the machine may catastrophically fail right when you need it.
Next, consider the volume of your wood splitting tasks. It’s difficult for us to say how large your log splitter should be, so base your decision on how many logs you’ve been splitting before or how many you are intending to split.
You don’t want to buy a log splitter that’s too much for your tasks – you would be just wasting money. With that, try to determine how much wood you will be going through in a day and pick accordingly.
But generally, for heavy-duty tasks, you would want to go for a hydraulic machine with an auto ram return feature (like the 7-ton Champion gas splitter, our top pick). As for light to medium household needs, even a completely manual splitter may suffice, though do make sure to match your purchase with your needs.