If you need to split some wood for the winter season, a log splitter can make the job much easier. The Yard Machine Log Splitter is an affordable option that can handle most types of wood. In this guide, we will give you an overview of how to operate this machine, including its features and some helpful tips for using it.
About the Powerhorse 22 Ton – 212CC Engine Log Splitter
Before we dive in, If you’re in the market for a decent log splitter, you may want to check out the following log splitter from Powerhouse:
This log splitter is designed to be powerful, efficient, and easy to use. It features a premium hydraulic system with wire-reinforced hoses, an 11 GPM cast iron pump, and a Zinga-made Powerhorse filter.
The reliable Powerhorse engine has industrial-strength components, high-quality ball bearings, and a steel fuel tank.
The splitter has a heavy-duty pivot for horizontal and vertical splitting, and a tapered wedge that can split all types of wood with ease. It also has an auto-return wedge that resets to the proper starting position, built-in log cradles, and is rated for fully-loaded, continuous use to eliminate downtime. While some assembly is required, this log splitter is a popular choice for both professionals and do-it-yourself.
How to Operate a Log Splitter
Before starting the machine, ensure that it is on a flat surface and that the logs you are splitting are stable and secure. Here are the steps to follow:
Set the machine to the desired position: The machine can be used vertically or horizontally. If you’re splitting bigger logs, you can set it vertically. If not, keep it horizontal.
Add hydraulic fluid: Open the fill-up lid and add hydraulic fluid. Ensure that you use the recommended hydraulic fluid for the machine.
How to start wood splitter: Turn on the machine by pressing the on button. Then, push the choke on and start the machine. You may need to pull the lever to get the machine started.
Load the logs: Load the logs into the splitter. Ensure that the logs are stable and secure before starting the machine.
Split the logs: Pull the lever to split the logs. The wedge will come out and crush the wood that’s in between it and the plate. Once you’ve split the logs, push the lever back, and the RAM will pop out on its own.
How to use a Manual Wood Splitter
Choose a suitable location: Find a flat surface that is stable and secure. You may want to place a large piece of wood underneath the log you’re splitting to prevent it from rolling around.
Position the log: Place the log on the splitting surface with one end facing up. Make sure the log is stable and won’t roll or move while you’re splitting it.
Mark the log: Look for any knots or twists in the log, and mark where you want to split it. This will help you aim the wedge more accurately.
Start splitting: Hold the handle of the splitter with both hands and lift the wedge above your head. Then, bring the wedge down onto the log, aiming for the mark you made earlier. Use force to drive the wedge into the log.
Repeat the process: Once the wedge is in the log, use your hands to open up the crack further. Then, lift the splitter and wedge, reposition it along the crack, and strike it again with force. Repeat this process until the log is split into the desired size.
Split any remaining pieces: If the log has been split into several pieces, you can use the splitter to split any remaining pieces until they are the desired size.
Clean up: Remove any debris or wood chips from the splitting surface and dispose of them properly.
Note that using a manual wood splitter requires a certain amount of physical strength and endurance, as it can be tiring and challenging work. Always use proper safety equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, and take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
The Mighty Hand: A great Manual wood splitter option:
The Mighty Hand is a manual wood splitter that claims to be a safer and faster alternative to using an axe or maul. Weighing just 13 lbs, it is portable and can be used in various locations without the need for mounting. The cast-iron unibody and wide base provide stability while cracking wood, and it can also be anchored to a flat surface using the four half-inch bolt holes.
The safety ring and convex grind blade are designed to prevent injuries while efficiently splitting wood. The product comes with a 1-year limited warranty, and customer support is available via email or phone.
Helpful Log Splitter Tips
Know your wood: Splitting wood has a lot to do with knowing how the grain goes through the wood. If you know your wood, you won’t have any problem with a 20-ton press.
Change the filter regularly: To keep the machine in good condition, change the filter every once in a while.
Keep the machine lubricated: Lubricate the machine regularly to keep it in good working condition.
Final notes on Safety
Here are three final safety tips for using a log splitter safely:
Always wear appropriate safety gear: When operating a log splitter, it’s essential to wear the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, eye protection, and steel-toed boots.
Keep your hands and body clear: Keep your hands and body clear of the log splitter while it is in operation. Never try to reach in or near the machine while it’s running.
Always turn off the machine before making any adjustments: Before making any adjustments or clearing any jams, always turn off the machine and allow it to come to a complete stop. This will prevent any accidents from occurring.
Without properly maintaining a log splitter, it will not work very well. Its efficiency will keep on reducing. That is why maintenance is a necessity rather than optional.
The question is, how to maintain a log splitter?
We will share a step-by-step guide below, which will help you know more about the maintenance steps.
1. Inspect the user manual:
Most manuals of the log splitters come along with the troubleshooting as well as a maintenance procedure. When you want to conduct maintenance, the first thing you need to do is to check the manual. Once you do so, it becomes really easy for you to know the steps you need to undertake.
If you do not have the user manual handy on do not want to go through it, you can follow the steps below.
2. Check the hoses:
The first thing you must do is check the hoses.
These usually connect the ram cylinder with the reservoir. If there is any problem with the hydraulic fluid or hydraulic reservoir leaking, the problem is most likely to be the hose. That is why you have to first look at the hose.
If you find the leakage or a cut in the hose, it is better to replace the hose altogether.
That way, you can preserve the hydraulic fluid and prevent any leaks.
3. Refill the hydraulic fluid:
During the maintenance, it is also necessary to check the hydraulic fluid reservoir. You have to replace the hydraulic fluid at least once a year.
However, rather than using any hydraulic fluid stored earlier, it is good to use fresh hydraulic fluid. That will undoubtedly increase the log splitter’s efficiency and ensure that the wear and tear is reduced significantly.
4. Lubricate the moving parts:
Lubrication is an essential aspect of the log splitter. If the moving parts are not lubricated, it will become difficult for you to use the splitter.
That is why, when it comes to parts like ram, you have to ensure that they are fully lubricated. During the maintenance, you have to grease every inch of the ram to ensure that it operates smoothly.
If you notice any rust on the ram, you have to eliminate that rust with a proper cleaning procedure.
5. Inspect the engine:
Engine maintenance is equally important when looking after your log splitter. Firstly, you have to check the engine oil. The engine oil levels should be full. If they are low, you might have to add some engine oil to them.
Additionally, you have to look at the carburetor as well. There shouldn’t be any residue from the carburetor. Apart from that, look at things like the spark plug and the electrodes. If you notice any residue on the same, you have to clean the same.
If you aren’t sure how to eliminate the residue, the manual can undoubtedly come to your rescue.
6. Check the pull cord:
Pull cord often suffers from a lot of wear and tear over time. It can fray out if you have been using the log splitter for years now. If it breaks down, you will not be able to turn on the log splitter.
To avoid this problem, you must observe the pull cord during maintenance. If you notice any wear and tear, you will have to replace the pull cord.
There is no use in repairing it. Replacing is a much better option.
7. Check the pump:
In the last, check the pump itself. If any parts of the pump, like the central spindle, are loose, you have to work on fixing that. Loose parts can decrease the pump’s efficiency and might break down the log splitter as well.
When checking the central spindle and other parts of the pump, make sure that you look at the bearings as well. The bearings should not be loose, and if they are worn out, they should be replaced. If the condition of bearings is proper, you have to lubricate them.
In these seven simple steps, you can maintain a log splitter and increase its efficiency and lifespan. Rather than spending a lot of money by hiring a professional, simply follow this handy guide, and you shouldn’t have any problems with your log splitter.
Gas-powered kinetic log splitters are incredibly energy efficient when compared to their hydraulic counterparts which are more common. A hydraulic splitter uses hydraulic pumps to move the cutting wedge deep into the log. Whereas, a kinetic log splitter uses energy from flywheels to convert it into a burst of force and therefore split the log.
So why would you decide to opt for a kinetic log splitter – or more specifically a Detail K2 Log Splitter?
Features of the Detail K2 Log Splitter – OPS240 40 Ton Kinetic
The K2-OPS240 features a high turnover rate ( Splits and returns the log in 1 second)
Uses flywheel technology
Quality
Fewer parts to worry about – that means less breakages and downtime
No hydraulic oil – means there is less maintenance required and ZERO oil leakages.
Detail K2 OPS240 40 Ton Kinetic Log Splitter Size
The machine needs to work in an open environment. The size in comparison to its hydraulic competitors is relatively small but still the machine needs to be operated in an open environment.
Price
As with all kinetic log splitters, the price is relatively higher than the hydraulic splitter alternative. But they do come with a pretty solid list of Pros to weigh up when comparing to their hydraulic counterpart.
Pros & Cons
Pros
High speed technology.Able to split logs on average in 2.3 seconds or under.
There are no chance of leakages as no hydraulic oil is used.
The part replacement is also low as the machine is pretty straightforward and generally simple in its design.
Easier to handle easier to handle and maneuver to your log pile for processing.
Cons
Relatively expensive as compared to other alternatives in the market.
Extremely dense logs are a challenge for these machines. So if you have some serious hardwood to split you may want to consider a hydraulic splitter.
Can only operate in horizontal position. This may become difficult when loading large pieces of wood onto the machine.
All in all, the kinetic splitter is a great machine for people who wish to save time and reduce cost in the long run. As the K2 OPS240 delivers on speed (lower turnover rate) and cost (lower utility cost overtime).
High Speed Kinetic Log Splitter
It has been said that these machines are the future of the log splitting industry. This is because technology revolves around a “Flywheel” system. This system uses the force that is generated from the flywheel to move the shaft and ram in order to split the log.
The incredible thing about this type of log splitter is that the entire process often takes less than one second to complete. This means that there is very little waiting for the ram to split the wood, retract and return itself to its initial position.
Who is this Product for?
If you’re someone who is frustrated by the slow and painstaking process of splitting wood using a hydraulic log splitter, the Detail K2 OPS240 may be just what you’re after.
Literally any of the kinetic log-splitters with their auto-retract technology is a life saver for people who know the real value of time.
Another reason that this log splitter might be a good option for you is if you like your machinery to be neat and tidy all the time. With no leaky valve or spillage of oil, The Detail K2 log splitter makes sure that your tidy garage/shed is maintained.
Another reason this may be for you is that the Detail K2 is great for people who can’t afford breakdown times or machinery shutdown times. The kinetic log splitter only requires minor routine tuning.
What’s Included in the K2 Detail OPS240 kit?
The kinetic log splitter comes with all the necessary equipment to make the machine operational. Here are some of the critical components that are included with the splitter:
Flywheel
Gasoline engine
Work Table
Upper hood
There are a total of 55 tools or parts that come along with this 40 Ton beast of a kinetic wood splitter. A complete tool list will be found in the user manual that comes along with the machine.
Overview of Features
Full Cycle time of 1 Second
The average time of an hydraulic splitter is between 15 – 30 seconds. Whereas, the kinetic log splitter provided has a complete cycle time of 1 second. This is because of the technology used in the machine
Easier to maintain
The hydraulic log splitter has a long list of items that need to be checked every know and than in order to make sure that the machine is in proper working condition. Whereas the kinetic log splitter has no such issue or intricacies. Plus there are no leakages so the machine stays in a healthy condition at all times. Only engine tuning is needed every once in a while
Energy Efficient
A very pivotal advantage of kinetic splitters is that they often receive tons of accolades for its low energy consumption. This is because of the nature of technology, flywheel, that is employed at the heart of the machine.
Transportation
A hydraulic splitter requires skilled and experienced staff to move it from one location to another. Whereas, the kinetic log splitter is a relatively easier to handle machine. That can be easily rolled into a truck and then rolled out of the truck in the desired location.
Tutorial/ How To Use It
A complete guide as to how to install the kinetic log splitter is shared. Please click here.
Although you may get the complete installation guide I would like to share some important guidelines as to make the functioning of the log splitter smooth.
Make sure the oil levels are kept at the required level.
Gas is kept at the minimum level at all times.
Tuning is done based on the instructions provided by the supplier.
Make sure that the warning on the labels is always followed as to ensure a safe working environment.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, the kinetic log splitter is a one-stop-shop for all your log splitting needs. It could be used split the hardest wood in a matter of seconds. A machine that ensures that a clean workspace is maintained at all times. Moreover, its fuel efficiency ensures that business involved in cutting logs saves heaps and loads of money. Its low maintenance is a plus point for users from all walks of life.
If you’re anything like me, when you cut up wood for your firepace you too, end up with logs of all lengths.
Thats a problem!
It’s messy, and annoying to carry, and looks ugly when when you have one longer section of wood poking out of your firebox.
Thankfully, there is a solution to cutting firewood into equal cut lengths without using a measuring tape. All you need is a can of spray paint, and your new Mingo Firewood Marker to get precisely cut firewood quickly and accurately.
Enter – The Mingo Firewood Marker.
The Mingo Firewood marker allows you to mark your log before you being cutting so you end up with precisely cut firewood in exactly equal cut lengths every time.
It does this by ignoringconventional methods often used to make similar length cuts (such as a tape measure and sidewalk chalk) – and making use of a marking wheel that sprays a dot of paint to indicate the cut points along the length of the log.
Watch the video below to see it in action:
#95 How To Cut Your Firewood All The Same Lengths
How to use the Mingo Firewood Marker
To use this handy little device, all you need to do is use the following instructions:
Decide how long you want each length of cut wood to be, and choose the corresponding bright color wheel to the device (The marker comes with a 16″ wheel – others are available to purchase separately)
Insert the spray paint can into the canister receiver at the top of the machine
Simply position the device at the start of the log and roll it along the top surface of the log. This will place consistent marks all the way along the wood making it obvious exactly where you need to cut.
Cut your precisely marked wood with your favorite chain saw!
Features and Benefits of the Mingo Firewood Marker
This is what I think is the best feature:
The manufacturer of this clever little device has seemingly thought of everything. In particular, although sounding a bit silly, its bright color is actually a huge feature when you’re out cutting wood and there is sawdust everywhere. The bright color means that misplacing this guy is actually pretty tricky.
The full list of features (and their benefits to you):
Bright color – as mentioned above it is virtually impossible to lose
Comes with a 16-inch marking wheel but has the ability to work other marking wheel accessories that are available for separate purchase.
Makes use of the very popular ‘inverted surveyor’s paint’ spray cans
Easy to use and comfortable handle. All you need to do is grip the handle of the Mingo and roll it along the surface to get your length of wood ready to cut!
This thing is FAST – literally about 20 times faster than getting out a tape measure and chalk.
Because of the precise way this thing measures the lengths of wood, you will find that you will save yourself sever cuts per load.
Stacking your wood pile is safer to do as al the logs are the same length.
There is no need to shuffle wood around in the firebox because the equal lengths means your wood will burn cleaner and longer.
Marking wood with fallen snow on it is no issue at all for the Mingo.
Resistant to impact and temperature – Because of it’s composition of specially blended plastics.
Perfect for homeowners with woodburning fireplaces, stoves, or other woodburning appliances
The Mingo turns a long day of marking and cutting firewood into an enjoyable family outing
Available separately purchased wheel accessories make cutting almost any standard log easy as a spiced pumpkin pie!
A Kinetic Log splitter is one of the fastest ways to make short work of your log pile.
However…
You found this page, so you probably know this already.
But why is a Kinetic Log Splitter is the fastest option?
I will come back to that further down the page after I tell you about which are the best options available…
This short article I will introduce you to three of the most common models purchased, and make some recommendations on which one I think is the best kinetic log splitter available on the market.
But, before we dive in, here is my top recommendation:
THIRD BEST – Detail K2 OPS240 40 Ton Kinetic Ultimate Speed Log Splitter
FROM AMAZON. 40 Ton Kinetic Ulimate speed 1 sec Commercial Grade Log Splitter. KOHLER Command PRO 4000 RPM CH240 3YR warranty engine. Oversized reinforced steel work table, safety lockout, Clam shell quick access body. Extended stability axle with ATV tires. 2 IN ball hitch, 22 inch long logs. This machine gets it done, quality manufactured for top performance. Auto retraction bearing guided ram. This powerfull spitter performs during 40ton force cycles.
Wondering where and how to start with so many log piles waiting to be split in your backyard? Is your back aching just looking at it? Why go through the trouble of manually chopping logs when you have automatic log splitters to do it for you? Yes, all you need to do is press a switch, pull a lever, and voila! your log is split! The dangerous and tiresome chore of log chopping is safely and quickly taken care of with a log splitter at home, without straining your back. It’s a worthy investment for someone who regularly burns wood at home and in restaurants and hotels. Unlike manual chopping with axes and chainsaws, log splitters split wood to your desired size. And as most log splitters split wood into two pieces, you can split much more wood using it than with an axe or maul. Read on to find out which are the best log splitters on the market.
Types of log splitters
There are various types to choose from, but which are the best log splitters? They come in the following categories:
manual
electric
gas
horizontal
vertical splitters
Each option has its own set of individual pros and cons. You have to choose one of the best log splitters for yourself based on the amount of log you have to split. Some efficiently split large diameter logs, some work better with smaller logs, and while some cut through hundreds of logs per session (see the article about fast log splitters), others can split only a handful.
As different log splitters have different sources of energy, you also have to choose based on your preferred source of power. If you are on a budget and need a splitter to cut small to medium size logs, manual log splitters offering up to 10 tons of manual splitting capacity should be enough for you.
If you are looking for something to use indoors, then electric log splitters are a better choice with 4-7 tons of splitting capacity. Another option is to look at some log splitter plans and see if a DIY option would suit.
The gas-powered ones are better because you have heavy-duty very hard log splitting capacity to the tune of 38 tons. As you can’t get all the features in a single model, you have to make your choice after a considerable amount of research and thought.
Manual log splitters
Manual log splitters are simple hand or foot-powered devices. They are lightweight and easy to carry around, don’t’ need any electricity or gas, and are perfect for splitting small volumes of logs. Though they do require some manpower to operate, it’s less than swinging axes and mauls and ideal for occasional and domestic wood burners. However, it’s not suggested if you have lots of wood to split as it’s time-consuming and needs lots of effort.
Manual log splitters are budget-friendly when compared to other splitters. They offer up to 10 tons of splitting capacity and its 2-speed pump controls the lever speeds to provide the required amount of force. While low speed splits the grain, high speed follows through and completes the task.
Electric log splitters
These are the most popular type of splitters with an electric motor powering the hydraulics better than gas engines. They are portable in size, lightweight and can be operated on ground level, on a bench or on a stand. These splitters offer the advantage of using both indoors in the basement garage, and outdoors including outdoor buildings, as it does not emit any harmful fumes when in use.
All that the electric log splitters require is a standard grounded electrical 120V outlet where there’s no risk of the circuit bursting due to an overload. This type of log/wood splitter is popularly used in restaurants and hotels for making bonfires and fireplaces. It also requires less maintenance when compared to gas splitters as there’s no changing of fluids involved. It’s also affordably priced when compared to gas splitters.
Its main disadvantage is that it’s rather noisy, especially if you plan to use it indoors. And of course, as it needs an electric outlet to work, you may not be able to use it if your work site doesn’t have one.
Gas log splitters
These are the largest and most powerful commercial splitters with a maximum splitting capacity of 38 tons. They are fit for splitting knotty and larger diameter logs and as they don’t require any power outlet, they are more versatile in use. Most models come with trailer hitches for transporting from one place to another. These splitters are best used for splitting close grain woods like cherry and basswood.
Gas splitters are, however, the most expensive and require regular maintenance like oil and air filter changes, spark plug replacements and fuel additions for optimal performance. They also have to be used with proper ventilation to avoid containment of the harsh fumes it produces, which is why they are not preferable for domestic and indoor use.
Horizontal log splitters
These manual or electric splitters are generally smaller, cheaper and a better option for domestic use where the logs are horizontally loaded onto it. Horizontal log splitters are compact in size and better for homeowners who have to split light, small logs that are easily placed on the machine. They are used both indoors and outdoors, on the floor or at waist height with a stand that may come with the model or have to be bought separately.
You will have to lift logs and place them on the machine if used on a stand. But of course, the stand can always be adjusted to your preferences and comfort. They are generally not as powerful as gas log splitters which makes them a better option for splitting low volumes of firewood to use for fireplaces, burners and stoves. They work best with small logs spanning 14” in diameter and 21” in length and ideal for splitting hundreds of logs a year.
Vertical log splitters
Vertical log splitters are best for splitting larger logs or larger volumes of logs, especially for commercial use. As it’s difficult lifting large logs or wood from large woodpiles into the machine, these splitters are designed to cut through logs while on the ground.
This type of splitter is, therefore, better for larger logs that are difficult to lift off the ground or if lifting the logs onto the machine can lead to serious injuries. They are rather large in size and take up more storage space.
They do, however, have sufficient power to cut through most wood types ranging from hardwood to freshly cut wood and most models offer the option of switching between vertical and horizontal splitting.
But Which are the Best Log Splitters?
Looking at all these types of log splitters, you naturally wonder what type and size log splitter do I need? And which are the best log splitters within each category?
Well, it depends on various factors such as:
How much split wood you require
The wood/log size
How old, dry, seasoned or unseasoned the wood is.
The smaller, electrical horizontal log splitters are better for chopping small to medium volumes and small to medium-sized logs. They can be used at floor level or on a bench or may come with a stand for waist-high operation. The petrol-powered machines are the most powerful, ideal for people who regularly chop wood and need help easily handling all wood types. Some also offer added speed and efficiency, which may be a better option to save time.
There are a few main features to help you choose carefully from the best log splitters listed below:
Stands – Useful for raising the log splitter from the floor and eliminate the need for bending to use it.
Two-hand safety operation – Both hands are used for its safe operation.
Wheels – Ranges from small, simple wheels to large all-terrain tires to store transport and split wood on the move.
Transport handle – Helps wheel the log splitter from one working spot to another.
Rubber or sponge ergonomic handles – Comes with some models which reduce vibrations while working for long periods for a more pleasant wood splitting experience.
Height-adjustable log plate – A feature of vertical log splitters to deal with varied log sizes using two or three adjustable positions.
Protected control levers – Provides extra safety to operate levers.
Clamps – Holds logs securely in place while splitting and can be adjusted to fit different sized logs.
Spring-loaded auto-return – A rare but helpful feature that quickly returns the wedge to the starting position if you have lots of logs to split.
Shaped log cradles – Popular with horizontal splitters in preventing logs from falling off while splitting wood.
Warranty – A warranty of at least a year means the machine is a high quality one, where the manufacturers standby its performance.
Brand -It’s better to buy quality brand products from brands like Powerhouse and Boss.
Here are the 5 Best Log splitters on the Market
Besides checking all these features, it’s always better to read a few log splitter reviews to find out what other customers have to say about the machines, and how they rate it. Highly rated units with positive customer reviews generally mean that the product is a high-quality one and a better purchase.
There are so many log splitter brands available on the market here is a quick list of them, feel free to click through and read more information about each:
The Boss Industrial ES7T20 7-ton electric log splitter comes from the Naperville, Illinois based Boss Industrial Company famous for producing well-designed and dependable wood splitters. It’s the perfect wood splitter to make the jump from manual log splitters to an electric one.
This is one of their best log splitters because of its functionality, superior hydraulics and well-thought features. It’s also on the CSA list, a famous and trusted testing agency ensuring its overall safety guarantee.
It’s easy to use! Like most electric log splitters, the Boss ES7T20 is easy to use with one hand. Its 2 HP motor starts in a matter of seconds with the push of a button. It splits wood quickly,thanks to its cradle hydraulic system which has no complicated levers or buttons. This saves lots of time on big wood splitting jobs.
It’s Compact in size! Despite its working prowess, the splitter is compact in size, to easily fit into your backyard or store in a cabin. Besides, the unit also has an automatic ram return feature. So there’s no need of resetting the unit for the next log. Perfect for domestic use It can apply up to 7 tons of pressure, which is good for an electric unit but less than gas models. With this force, it’s possible to handle lots of wood types found around your home or yard. And as its electric motor is rather quiet, it’s just right for domestic use.
Pros
Can be used with one hand
Easy to start powerful but quiet 2 HP electric motor
Offers 7 tons of splitting force • Comes with a 2-year residential warranty
Fast log splitter thanks to its automatic ram return feature
Easy to assemble • Easily splits 15” diameter wood logs and knotty wood
The Champion Compact Horizontal 7-ton Gas Log Splitter is designed for large wood cutting jobs. It’s powered by Champion’s reliable 80cc single-cylinder engine with a 0.4-gallon fuel tank and 0.4qt. oil capacity. Though small in size, the machine’s big in power. Quick 20-second full-time cycle The wood splitter is designed for portable, reliable and quick log splitting with its quick 20-second full-time cycle and auto-return valve. This is why the Champion wood splitter can perform a maximum of 180 cycles per hour. Low profile The unit easily handles logs up to 19.3 inches in length and 50 lbs. in weight, which its integrated log cradle safely keeps in position.
With its low profile, you no longer have to struggle to lift large and heavy logs onto the splitter. Besides, its skewed wedge provides for improved splitting efficiency. Automatic low oil sensor With its automatic low oil shut-off sensor, it automatically switches off when there’s no oil.
It is easily moved from one site to another with its convenient handle and all-terrain tires. It’s small and compact enough to fit into any truck-bed and to store anywhere. Its 2-stage gear pump adjusts flow and pressure for high flow/low pressure where there’s no resistance, and low flow/high pressure for increased productivity while cutting through logs.
This is all backed by a 2-year limited warranty and an experienced network of technicians offering free lifetime technical support.
If you prefer splitting wood the old fashioned way with your muscle power and a strong axe, then the Fiskars 36” X27 Super Splitting Axe may be what you are looking for! It’s sharp blade make splitting even medium and extra-large logs so easy.
Practically unbreakable design The long handle makes the axe a good choice for taller users or anyone who prefers working with long axes. This is because the handle’s increased length creates maximum leverage, power and speed.
The axe also boasts of a virtually unbreakable design with its stronger than steel FiberComp handles, and it’s indivisible insert-moulded PermaHead design.
It’s perfect weight distribution and advanced blade geometry provides for maximum efficiency and a higher chance of one-strike splits with each swing made. In fact, each strike of the axe is as powerful as an aluminium baseball bat’s action where increased spring speed multiplies its power. Optimal blade design Fiskars is famous for its sharp-edged blades that are crafted using proprietary grinding techniques for better contact and cuts.
The hardened forged steel blades remain sharp for a longer period of time. Its low-friction coating prevents the blade from getting stuck while splitting wood.
Pros
At 36” length, it’s ideal for tall users to split medium to large logs
Well-designed for more one-strike splits with minimal time, effort and hand strain
Increased swing speed due to perfect balance and power-to-weight ratio
Low-friction coating and convex blade easily removes blade from wood
Comes with a lifetime warranty from the leading Finland based Fiskars Group
No worry of axe-head dislodging from handle due to its Permahead design
Lightweight and virtually unbreakable
Chamber absorbs vibrations to prevent hand-shaking strikes
t’s ultra-sharp edge can be sharpened using optional Fiskars blade sharpener
Carry and hang sheath gives added protection while in storage
Looking for wood splitting help? If yes, the Power Smart 6 ton PS90 Electric Log Splitter is a machine worth checking out.
This is a wood splitter that helps quickly turn a pile of useless wood into useful firewood. It’s definitely much better and safer to use to split small to medium sized wood than a splitting axe. Its 6 ton RAM force makes splitting logs as long as 21 inches with a diameter of 10 inches so much easier.
The framing supports logs properly because the machine has a tubing framing running along its sides providing the necessary support to prevent them from falling off while splitting. The tubing also reaches and wraps around the machine front to form a thickly padded handle offering a cool and comfortable grip.
Though the PS90 weighs 101 lbs, it has much wider wheels than most machines of the same weight, this makes it very easy to transport! The wheels excellent treading also make it easy to transport around, even over bumps and uneven terrain.
The splitter offers the added advantage of storing in a vertical position if necessary. Quickly splits wood The PowerSmart PS90 does have a rather long cycle time of 22 seconds, which cannot be set for a shorter time like some other units. However, it does ensure the splitter quickly resets in time to split another log. While the PS90 operates with a simple push button, electronic start, you do need two hands for its safe operation.
It’s easy to use, stands solidly on the ground and is safe to use indoors like in a garage or barn.
Pros
Easy to start and use
Perfect for medium and small wood cutting jobs
Offers a 22-second cycle time and a 6 to6-ton splitting force
Can split wood as long as 21” with a maximum 10” diameter
Safe to use indoors • Has a cradle that keeps logs in position
Safe usage with 2 hands
Can split hardwood like white, pink or burr oak that’s not over dried
Cons
A bit low to the ground which can be rectified by buying a stand
Kindling helps start a fire; and if you want to create kindling for your stove, campfire, pizza oven or fireplace without risking injuries, then the Kindling Cracker wood splitter is what you need.
Built in Australia, this is a unique splitter because of its award-winning, patented design. Started as a science fair project It was created by a student for a science fair project, who wanted to make something to split firewood into kindling without any injuries, and has now gained international recognition. We believe that this is one of the best log splitters on the market, if not the best.
Made in an Australian foundry, this is a single piece of high-quality iron which can last for generations if cared for and used properly. All it requires is an occasional brushing and a coat of paint to look new for years. No swinging of axes needed The Kindling Cracker consists of a cast-iron splitting head inside a 12” cast iron frame where the firewood to be cut is placed. A blunt instrument like a hammer, mallet or even another piece of wood or log is then used to strike and split the wood by driving it into the splitting wedge. So there’s no need for any electricity, gas or even swinging of any sharp axes to cut wood. As the Kindling Cracker makes splitting wood so easy, it’s a welcome addition to your woodworking arsenal. It helps make perfect kindling from your firewood to use for starting fires wherever required like for your pizza oven, smoker, barbecue, fire pit, fireplace or sauna.
Pros
The absence of moving blades or sharp objects offers a safe option for making kindling
Requires less force than a standard axe for splitting firewood
The inner diameter of its top ring is 6.5” wide
Made in Australia using high-quality cast iron
Needs practically no maintenance even the blade needs no sharpening
Makes 4-6 small pieces from a stick of green or dry wood
Easy and light enough to carry around
Can split wood with a maximum diameter of 6.5” and length of 10-12”
Cons
Not useful for cutting wood that’s 18-22” long
Conclusion
Now that you know quite a lot about log splitters, choosing one should not be that big a problem. You basically have to choose based on the amount of wood to be split, your budget, if you are doing it indoors or outdoors and it’s portability.
After taking a look at the top 5 best log splitters on Amazon.com, the Kindling Cracker Wood Splitter seems to be one of the best log splitters, if not the best of the lot. It uses no electricity, fuel and very minimal effort on your part. It can be safely used indoors as it does not produce fumes to split regular sized 1ft long wood and lasts generations with minimal maintenance.
Besides, it’s light enough to carry and use wherever you want, even to camping trips. What more would you need in one of the best log splitters on the market?