How To Choose A Log Splitter

Do you cut wood often or in large quantities? If so, you are certainly well acquainted with the back-breaking labor that splitting wood can be. A log splitter can prove to be an excellent piece of equipment, well worth the investment. Convenient for everything from chopping firewood to preparing pieces for furniture craftsmanship, using a log splitter can shave hours off of the time it takes to complete a project.

Once you have made the decision to purchase a log splitter, it's time to take a look at the different types available. When you are aware of the options you will be better prepared to make an educated decision as to which log splitter will best serve your needs. There are quite a few varieties, sizes and types of log splitters on the market. Your choice of log splitter will rest mainly on the frequency of use and whether you use the equipment for weekend firewood or for professional, business purposes.

Log Splitter Variations:

Hydraulic or Electric:

Hydraulic log splitters come in horizontal or vertical models. Both versions are able to do an excellent job of splitting firewood. Horizontal log splitters are ideal for home use, but when the machine needs to be placed on uneven ground or in the forest, a vertical splitter is the best choice from a safety standpoint.

Some log splitters runs by an onboard gas powered motor, while others plug into an electrical outlet.

Which one should you choose? The big question here seems to be--How close are you to an electrical outlet when using your log splitter? The artisan who is splitting the wood for furniture will most likely be near an outlet at all times.

If you are felling trees and splitting them on location, bringing a generator with you will most likely end up becoming a nuisance. For this type of individual, a gas powered model is recommended.

What Cycle time and Horsepower will Fulfill Your Needs?

Generally, this decision is going to come down to price. A hydraulic log splitter, powered by a 5.5 horsepower engine will cost an average of $1500 to $2000. A log splitter of this caliber will be able to handle logs up to 25 inches and will have an average RAM of 20 tons and a 13 second splitting cycle.

If this is too pricey and more power than needed, you should be able to find a model under $1000 with a 3.5 horsepower engine that can deliver an average of 8 tons and an 18 second splitting cycle. This version is perfect for the occasional fireplace timber splitter.

Electric log splitters, primarily used at home can be purchased for $500 or less, and are equipped with a 2 horsepower motor delivering approximately 4 tons of RAM power. Many consumers like the ease of portability and the small size that can be hauled in most trunks.

Additional Considerations

Always choose the proven brand that adheres to the highest safety standards. One feature to keep an eye out for is a self-maintaining and self-lubricating log splitter. This feature will keep it in optimum condition without too much extra effort on your part.

Whichever model you choose, rest-assured that a log splitter is an excellent asset if you do any amount of wood cutting whatsoever. Make the investment. You'll be glad you did.