Types of Log Splitters
There are two main types of log splitters. They can be categorized as follows:
Manual Log Splitters
These are operated using manual power. You would have to exert force by yourself to split the log. These models are suitable for light wood splitting. They are a safer alternative than an axe or splitting maul.
Powered Log Splitters
Powered log splitters use gasoline engines or electrical motors to develop the splitting force. These models are the most effective and have the highest power. They are suitable for regular wood-splitting operations.
What Are the Key Features of a Log Splitter
There are several aspects that can affect the productivity of the splitter. Here are some key features you must consider:
Design of the Log Splitter
- Horizontal Splitters: Horizontal log splitters are good for splitting small logs for firewood or processing logs for campfires. However, they are not efficient in splitting longer logs. You will also need to pick up the logs manually to load them.
- Vertical Splitters: Vertical log splitters are well suited for long logs but take up more room. When working with vertical log splitters, you can easily roll the logs into place instead of carrying them. They often come with support arms that help you firmly hold the log.
Splitting Power
Ram Speed: This refers to how quickly the splitting wedge advances and retracts. A faster ram speed can get work done faster, but may lack safety features such as a locking mechanism, automatic shut-off and more. If you are buying a log splitter with high ram speed, check whether it has these features. You should also look for a safety guard, emergency stop button and a stable base.
Log Handling Features
Log Table: A sturdy table helps secure the logs. It also improves the splitting position for efficient working. You can also install an extended piece of plywood on the table to catch the split wood. This will save you from bending over to pick each piece up.
Log splitter tray: You can also opt for a log splitter with a built-in tray to make your work easier. This will automatically collect the split logs for you.
Wedge Options: Different wedges are available for splitting logs. Use a standard wedge to split the logs into two halves. If you want to split it into four narrower halves, use a splitting cross.
Safety Features
- Two-Handed Operation: This mechanism requires you to operate the log splitter using two-handed log splitter controls. It keeps your hands away from the danger zone and prevents accidents.
- Log Wedge Safety Guards: These guards are placed near the splitting wedge. They protect you from flying splinters or other debris and further lower the risk of injuries.
- Emergency Stop Button: This is a good safety feature to emergency stop the machine in case of any issues.
Consider these features when selecting a splitter. They will ensure a safe workspace for you.
How to Choose a Log Splitter
When buying a log splitter, consider these key factors to ensure you get the right one for the job:
Power Source and Force
Log splitters are available in manual, electric and gas-powered varieties. Manual log splitters will require you to put in the effort by yourself. They are best suited for lighter jobs.
The electric models are cleaner and easier to maintain. However, they are less powerful. Gas-powered splitters are good for tougher jobs. However, they're louder and require gas and oil maintenance.
Log Size
Take into account the diameter and length of the logs you will have to split. If you deal mostly with softwoods, a lower-tonnage splitter might be the right pick. However, for larger, knotty hardwoods, a gas-powered model with higher tonnage is recommended.
Safety Features
Look for safety features that come along with log splitters. Features like safety shields and two-handed operation can make the job much safer. They allow the work to be done easily and also increase the efficiency of splitting logs.
Portability
Log splitters with wheels can be easily transported from one place to another. If you plan to move the splitter around, look for models with sturdy wheels. This will help you move them up and down easily.
Now you know the key points to consider while buying a log splitter. Keep all the above points in mind and buy a log splitter that best suits your needs.
Budget
Consider your budget before buying a log splitter. Though electric log splitters are affordable, they are less powerful. The gas-powered log splitters are costlier but have a high engine power.
Splitting tonnage
Log splitter models have a wide range of splitting tonnage. You must choose one with a splitting tonnage of more than 20 tons to split hardwood logs. For splitting softwood, you can go for log splitters with lesser splitting tonnage.
Operating position
If you have to work with longer logs, consider buying a horizontal log splitter. Vertica log splitters are good for smaller logs. Some log splitter models can support both splitting positions. Make sure to check the specifications of the log splitter before buying it.
Ease of operation
A gas-powered hydraulic log splitter can split logs without requiring much effort from you. You can also consider buying a log splitter with a log tray. It will help you handle the logs easily.
What Is the Best Log Splitter to Buy?
The best log splitter for you depends on your specific needs. Here’s what to consider before you buy.
Gas-powered hydraulic log splitter
The gas-powered hydraulic log splitters are more powerful as compared to the electric ones. Gas-powered log splitters are available with a splitting tonnage of 13 to 32 tons. Hence, they are best suited for heavy-duty tasks.
These log splitters are also easily portable. Log splitters with wheels can be easily transported from one place to another.
Consider the splitting position best suited for your task. You can also opt for hydraulic log splitters that can split logs in both vertical and horizontal positions.
Electric hydraulic log splitter
If you want to buy a log splitter for smaller tasks, consider buying an electric log splitter. They are generally available in splitting tonnage of 5 tons.
Electric hydraulic log splitters are fairly easy to use and do not require you to fill any fuel tank. Since they are electric, these log splitters do not give off any fumes.
You can also consider buying an electric hydraulic log splitter with a stand. The stand keeps the log splitter at a comfortable height. This provides you with added convenience to work with the machine.
Now you know all the key points to keep in mind while buying a log splitter. Select the one that is best suited for your needs.