Here’s what you need to know about log splitters

True or false: log splitters cut wood. FALSE. Although it seems like the obvious answer would be true, like the name suggests, a log splitter splits wood. Log splitters are equipped with a wedge that is driven into the middle of a piece of wood until it finally splits. Because of this, it is important to focus on a log splitters strength and not necessarily the speed, when deciding what log splitter to buy. This strength, or force, is measured in tons. The greater the tonnage the log splitter can put out, the harder and wider the logs it can split.

Not all wood is going to require the same amount of tonnage to split the wood. Here is a breakdown of approximately the wood’s diameter and how many tons it would take to split:

In addition to the log splitters tonnage capacity for splitting wood, the power source of the splitter is something else to consider when looking for the perfect log splitter for your needs. A log splitters power can come from 5 different sources. They are:

• Manual log splitter which relies on you and your strength to power the machine. This is a great option if you are ready to retire your ax for a more controlled and safe way to splitting wood.  

• Electric powered hydraulic log splitters uses a hydraulic pump to drive a blade or wedge into the log. You will need an outlet and extension cord to get this splitter moving. Because you aren’t using fuel, this is the greener option for those thinking of the environment. Additionally, they require less maintenance and are typically cheaper.

• Gas powered hydraulic splitters, similarly to electric powered hydraulic splitter, uses a hydraulic pump to drive a blade or wedge into the log. Gas powered provides its users with mobility, more power and faster splitting.

• Machine mounted hydraulic splitters are attached to a tractor and uses it as the power source and is generally very powerful.

• Kinetic log splitters do not use hydraulics but rather a flywheel that is attached to a motor (this can come in both electric and gas powered). This type of splitter is great for big jobs because the energy builds making splitting very fast.

It’s important to get the right log splitter for your needs so that your job is much easier and your back is saved from the anguish of splitting wood with an axe. Make sure to do your homework on all the different models when making your selection.
If you have any questions or need help in narrowing your search, give the professionals at Snappy’s Outdoor Equipment a call at (419) 879-1196 or swing by our showroom to see the different selections we offer!