The Year's Best best commercial log splitter from Kindling Cracker, MARVOWARE, BH Blue Home, Sun Joe, Powerhorse, Greener, SuperHandy, PowerSmart, GRILLMER, Lumber Jack We are anchored in: * Products: 13 * There were 122,374 reviews published in 2023. Get Shipping Quotes. However, in exchange for the bargain price, some capability is lost. As for splitting, we were so amazed at how it splits the oak logs like butter, explained one purchaser. Some common brands for log splitters for commercial use include makes like Dirty Hand Tools, Ruggedmade Splitters, Tractor Supply Co., and NorthStar (although none of the Dirty Hand Tools or Ruggedmade Splitter options made it to our list of the top machines this time around). This easy-to-operate log splitter might not be the biggest, but its no slouch in the field, either. Gas log splitters also cant be used inside a garage or workshop because they create hazardous fumes. This article is edited and updated by Michelle Ullman, the tool expert for The Spruce. Plus, it requires no maintenance, will last virtually forever, has no sharp blades or wedges that could cause injury, and needs no fuel beyond your own exertions. Many have the ability to work either horizontally or vertically. Once you get there, it's a simple, three-step maneuver to switch the log splitter between horizontal or vertical orientation, so you can spare your back when working on the heaviest logs. Most log splitters are close to the ground, requiring you to bend over or crouch down while working. For anyone on a budget who needs a compact and lightweight machine to split wood, this 121-pound machine is just the ticket. Founded in 2008, Wood Splitters Direct is a U.S. They may also give the maximum log diameter or the weight of the log. Champion's 25-ton log splitter sold in the USA only has an 11-second cycle time. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. A log splitters cycle time measures how long it takes the tool to split through a log. Saice also cautions that its important to go further with protection: Purchase the proper safety equipment, including ear protectionlog splitters, especially gas-powered models, can be loudsafety glasses that completely cover your eyes, and sturdy work gloves.". They typically feature lightweight construction, which makes positioning them for work or storage easier. Join PopSci+ to read sciences greatest stories. No matter the needs, one of the following log splitters should fit the bill. The info below provides a general idea of how much tonnage is needed from a log splitter in terms of log diameter and wood hardness. The cycle time for splitting each log is just 11 seconds. And the Fiskars Pro IsoCore Wood Splitting Maul is just the axe for the job. Popular Sciencestarted writing about technology more than 150 years ago. Each one of our highly trained and certified service professionals is driven by the belief that all homeowners deserve access to premium service and everlasting comfort. Bob Vila has been Americas Handyman since 1979. But youll be tethered to a power cord, so these tools arent the best choice for splitting wood on the go. Tow it behind your car or truck on its 8-inch wheels to wherever you need to work, whether that's near your home or out in a wooded field. For those willing to expend a little elbow grease, buying a log splitter doesnt have to break the bank. With 9 tons of splitting power and a cycle time of 14 to 23 seconds, you'll be able to split just about any type of log, whether hard or soft wood. The cycle time of this industrial wood splitter is a mere 10.5 seconds, and it comes with a log catcher to reduce bending. 2022 Boruite BRT50T610 Log Splitter 2-way, 4 way and 6-way wedges included, log lift, table grate. I really like the shelf to catch each split piece and eliminate bending over every time.. Split only oak and hackberry wood so far, but no problem for this machine.. He can be reached at abuchanan@lee-associates.com or 714.564.7104. One happy customer explained that they have been left impressed with this log splitters overall design, engineering, and functionality, and wrote, I have been splitting both Walnut and Maple, several pieces with large knots, and the splitter has not been stopped yet.. Most commercial-grade splitters are gas-powered and have more splitting force than other wood splitters. Each has its benefits and considerations. Wood splitting needs vary, and some may need a hefty gas log splitter to split enough wood to last all winter, while others may want a small manual log splitter that serves only to further split quartered logs into kindling. Even though most log splitters are designed to take the work out of splitting large logs, there is something unique about completing the task by hand. The full-beam design of this log splitter from Bosscan handle logs cut from softer woods. CountyLine 25-Ton Log Splitter at Tractor Supply Co. Swisher 22-Ton Electric Log Splitter Eco Split LS22E at Amazon, Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter at Amazon, WEN 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter at Amazon, Fiskars Pro IsoCore Wood Splitting Maul at Amazon, Kindling Cracker Firewood Splitter at Amazon, Sun Joe 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter LJ602E, Yardmax YS0952 9-Ton Electric Log Splitter, Swisher 22-Ton Electric Log Splitter Eco Split LS22E, Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter, The 8 Best Fireplace Tools and Accessories of 2023. Stay up to date on industry news and trends, product announcements and the latest innovations. But as a general rule, gas log splitters are faster than electric log splitters, with an average cycle time of anywhere from 10 to 20 seconds, although youll find some high-powered models with cycle times as short as three seconds. Our Top 7 Choices For Best Log Splitters Reviews of the 7 Best Log Splitters in 2023 #1 - Winner - Champion Power Equipment 25-Ton Beam Gas Log Splitter with Auto Return Quick Facts Powerful and sharp splitting wedge Incredible and efficient cycle time Feature an auto-return function Have about 5.5 hours total time. A 20-second automatic return cycle, low-profile frame with integrated log cradle, and durable offset wedge increase work efficiency. The 1.8 HP motor, providing 5 tons of force, operates on a standard household electrical outlet, produces no emissions, and its safe to use indoors. Welcome to the Thomas guide to the best commercial log splitter 2023. The best depends on several factors, including log size and weight, where and how often it is used, available storage space, and more. Thicker and denser logs, or logs that are still partly wet, require splitters with more power than is needed for small logs, dry logs, or softwoods such as cedar and pine. We evaluated log splitters based on power, size of log handled, ease of use, and reliability. Join PopSci+ to read sciences greatest stories. Some merely require you to pump levers that work up enough pressure to drive the splitter through the log, while others hold the log in place while you do all of the heavy work. Each side of the vertical blade features a slanted steel guide that directs the split wood at a diagonal angle to reduce the chance of logs getting stuck on the blade. Links to the Best Commercial Log Splitters we listed in this video:5. Its vital to choose a reputable brand and do some exploration into whether a splitter lives up to its advertised tonnage. Keep the following tonnage ranges in mind when selecting a splitter that suits the size of the logs that regularly need to be split. Horizontal log splitters are the most common type and are relatively easy to operate. A good, inexpensive one should offer at least 5 tons of pressure and should be easy to transport with a lightweight frame on sturdy wheels. The 2-horsepower motor offers 7 tons of splitting force to tackle logs up to 10 inches in diameter without the need for gasoline or a separate engine. A manual splitter requires no engine or fuel, just human power. Cub Cadet LS 25 CC H 25 US Ton Log Splitter Best Log Splitter for Tough Jobs Anywhere Read Customer Reviews . At only 7.43 pounds and requiring almost no storage space, this tool punches well above its weight. Theres no way around it: Cutting your own firewood is a big job for one person. Those who only do a few at a time may find it more convenient to use this simple hand tool rather than setting up a much larger electric or gas-powered machine. Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Thomas has been connecting North American industrial buyers and suppliers for more than 120 years. Most manufacturers provide a maximum log length, which for 25-ton log splitters is usually 24 to 26 inches. Instead, it comes with two long handles the user pumps back and forth to force hydraulic fluid into the cylinder to operate the ram. The log is then placed into the circular steel holder, and the user hits it firmly, driving the log downward onto the steel splitting wedge. Many let you switch between vertical and horizontal splitting, which can be a major issue when working with very large, heavy logs. Tuck the shirt into your pants to prevent dangling fabric at the waist, and fasten the cuffs. Horizontal splitters are generally adequate for splitting average and smaller logs up to 12 inches in diameter. This splitter is a beast, raved one enthusiastic buyer. The must-have machinery for any woodshed includes log splitters that cut wood clean and fast. This compact and powerful electric log splitter, with innovative two-way operation, weighs only 104 pounds and requires less than 15 cubic feet of storage space in the garage or tool shed. Eighteen-inch seasoned logs need at least 20 tons of driving force, while a green 18-inch log can require as much as 30 tons of force. It weighs a mere 469 pounds and comes with large wheels for easy portability, a two-inch hitch coupler, a recoil start, and it is CARB compliant. Thomas Regional are part of Thomasnet.com. It has horizontal positioning for medium to large wood and is also a vertical splitter for heavier pieces of wood. And at only 5 pounds, the wedge is light enough to carry around with you for splitting while camping or out at a cabin in the woods. That kind of rapid production makes a big difference to those who split logs for a living. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Best overall: Greenworks 48V 20" Brushless. This is a balanced axe, designed to increase swing speed and multiply striking power. First is the DOT-approved tires, so unlike many that can only be towed across fields, this one is road ready. Electric log splitters are generally powerful enough to tackle mid-size logs of light-to-moderate hardness. Best Commercial-Grade Log Splitters for Large LogsNorthStar Commercial Log Splitter Boasting a powerful Honda engine and many impressive features, this wood splitter from NorthStar can split logs that are two feet in diameter, making it potentially possible to split more than one log at a time. Log-splitting axesoften called "mauls"generally have a wedge-shaped cutting head to maximize the splitting force, but the Fiskars Pro IsoCore Wood Splitting Maul takes it a step further with both a splitting face and a driving face, which is perfect for driving wedges or for striking with a mallet to add force to your splitting efforts. This DK2 log splitter has the fastest cycle time of just about any other similar machine in just one second. In terms of your buying decision, as a rough guideline, half-beam splitters are less expensive than full-beam splitters, and are also lighter, which makes them easier to maneuver. Power Source: Gas | Driving Force: 27 tons | Cycle Time: 11 seconds | Vertical/Horizontal Options: Yes, Can struggle with very knotty or hard logs. A combo horizontal/vertical splitter offers the best of both worlds because it can be used to split logs of all sizes, from small ones to large, heavy ones. Among the most manual of all wood-splitting options, the Fiskars splitting axe weighs just 5.85 pounds and is 36 inches long, making it well suited for taller users. California Do Not Track Notice. Keep clear of the wedge while it does its work splitting the log. Log size and splitter tonnage rating are closely related. Six-inch logs need 4 to 5 tons of driving force. Power Source: Gas | Driving Force: 25 tons | Cycle Time: 11 seconds | Vertical/Horizontal Options: Yes. This horizontal electric log splitter includes a 34-inch stand for splitting logs at waist level, or it can be placed on the ground to make loading large logs into the cradle easier. Also available with 15HP Lifan En.See More Details. We know we dont know everything, but were excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers dont have to. The 5 Best Log Splitters 1. Sometimes, you may not even have the luxury of hauling a gas or electric splitter with you. Electric log splitters have many advantages: they are far more environmentally friendly than gas-powered models, they don't produce dangerous fumes, they are typically quieter than gas models, and you don't have to deal with toting gasoline to keep them fueled. Much will depend on the wood that is being split. The best log splitter will get you out of the woods fast, saving you time, money, and stress. Not only is the device handy, its fun. The direct drive splitter offers 34 Tons of splitting force. This gas-powered log splitter can handle logs all the way up to 36 inches in diameter and 26 inches in lengththats a big piece of wood. Log splitters are undeniably expensive, particularly the heavy-duty, gas-powered beasts that chew through the largest logs without blinking an eye. After you chop the wood, its time to cut the grass with the best lawn mower. This log splitter has two speeds: slow, for when you need more force to split harder woods, and fast, for when the wood is softer. Copyright 2023 Thomas Publishing Company. Using a steel ram, the splitter pushes the log into a sharpened steel blade at the other end, which splits the log lengthwise. Its tough to start a roaring fire without some kindling to get things going. If you have access to fallen trees or cut logs, you can create your own perfectly sized firewood with a log splitter, which makes quick work of splitting chopped logs down to manageably sized pieces of firewood by forcing a sharp wedge through the center of the log. But theres no need to buy kindling, or use your electric or gas-powered log splitter for this small task. It takes a lot of force to push a blade through a log, and so one of the most important factors when choosing a log splitter is its driving force, which is usually measured in tons. Our buying guide below can help point you in the right direction. If splitting wood in the backyard, neighbors will be thankful for a quiet electric log splitter. No need to lift larger rounds up onto the beam when you can easily switch into vertical mode. Not everyone needs as much brute force as the Champion Power Equipment 27-Ton Splitter provides, but if you needor just wantto be able to easily and quickly split logs all the way up to 24 inches in length and 100 pounds in weight, this is your tool. SHOP NOW FS500 Dual Action 42-Ton Commercial Log Splitter Starting at $18,995 That's where a log splitter comes into the picture. There is a misconception that half-beam splitters are less powerful than full-beam splitters. Frame welding has been faulty in the past, but this seems to have been resolved. Best on a Budget: Fiskars Iso Core 36 Inch Maul. And the 5.5-inch wheels make it easy to transport the log splitter right where you want it. That's not the case with the Swisher 22-Ton Electric Log Splitter Eco Split, though. Whats the difference between a full-beam and half-beam log splitter? It comes mounted on its wheelbase and comes with an ATV/UTV 2-inch ball hitch for pulling it into remote locations. 4 Titan Outdoors. As the sharpened ram splits the log, the pieces fall to the sides, and the large remaining bits can be repositioned on the steel base for further splitting. This is just a general guide. In the vertical position giant, heavy logs can be chopped with no lifting. Best of all, it comes at an affordable price point. Boasting a powerful Honda engine and many impressive features, this wood splitter from NorthStar can split logs that are two feet in diameter, making it potentially possible to split more than one log at a time. By Glenda Taylor and Bob Beacham Updated Mar 14, 2023 11:25 AM. Fire logs are an alternative, but spitting your logs is invariably more economical. This is a gas-powered splitter with a powerful 224-cubic-centimeter (cc) single-cylinder engine that complies with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations for low emissions. Iron & Oak 30 Ton Vertical Horizontal Log Splitter Torsion Axle - Gas Log Splitter. Most DIY log splitters feature two back wheels useful for moving the splitter from one spot to anotherjust lift the opposite end and push like a wheelbarrow. The process is tiring and time-consuming. They do require more maintenance than kinetic machines but are still the most common wood-cutting machines available. This manual splitter holds logs in place while the user hits them with a maul or malletno axe necessary. Who needs an ax to split falling logs when theres this commercial-grade splitter from XtremePowerUS? For example, straight-grained pine is a lot easier to split than gnarly old oak. Keep in mind when buying a log splitter the old saying, "buy cheap, buy twice." If there is a lot of wood to splitor if there is a need to split wood where theres no electrical outleta gas log splitter may be the best option. Manual splitters and splitting axes also take up less storage space than powered splitters. Weve written about other outdoor lawn equipment, like wood chippers, so we applied that knowledge here. While there are no exact figures, generally speaking, a 4-ton splitter would be expected to handle logs up to 6 inches in diameter, whereas a massive 24-inch tree trunk requires at least a 20-ton splitter, if not larger. A wedge-shaped splitting maul is still the simplest, most reliable, most portable tool for splitting firewood. Get the Champion log splitter at Amazon or Acme Tools. At Eastonmade Wood Splitters we build the highest quality and best performing commercial grade Wood Splitters, Firewood Processor, and Firewood accessories on the planet! Amazon.com : Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter, 7-Ton : Power Log Splitters : Patio, Lawn & Garden . We offer everything from a homeowner that wants a great piece of equipment, right up to the big guys producing thousands of cords of wood a year. EGO Power+ is a direct replacement for . The patented IsoCore handle greatly reduces shock and vibration to your arms and hands, and the dual-layer rubbery coating further reduces vibration. There are three basic types of log splitters: gas, electric, and manual. Hydraulic splitters use pressurized fluids to power wood-splitting machines. Besides those mentioned above, the only real difference between a half-beam and a full-beam log splitter is in the stability a full-beam splitter provides when towed. The user then hits the log with a hammer or mallet to drive it downward over the blade, splitting the log in two. Get the Kindling Cracker log splitter at Northern Tool + Equipment or Acme Tools. A mallet or maul is required for splitting the firewood. That's much larger than the typical electric log splitter. Either type may use hydraulics to apply splitting force, though some manual models rely on the user hitting the log onto the blade with a mallet or maul. Most log splitters feature 10- to 20-second cycle times. Plus, they can be used inside a barn or workshop if youd like to cut wood when the weather is cold or rainy. Below we cover some of the most common splitters and what they are most useful for. Often only a length is provided in the literature, although some manufacturers specify both length and diameter. Thomasnet Is A Registered Trademark Of Thomas Publishing One of the first things many notice when shopping for log splitters is a reference to tonnage in product names, such as 6-ton or 20-ton. Tonnage is the amount of power the splitter uses to force the ram. The full-beam design of this splitter runs on hydraulic fluid, and the air-cooled, four-stroke features extend the engine life of this model. It's is the 12-22 model. Whats more, this model comes with 16-inch pneumatic tires that make transporting this almost 600-pound machine easier. A few commonly used benchmarks are as follows: 4 tons will split a 6-inch log, 16 tons will split a 12-inch log, 30 tons will split a 24-inch log. Here are the best log splitters. Our recommendations offer an ideal choice for each user depending on the tonnage the user requires and the size of the logs they are looking to split. Each is assembled and welded by hand, ensuring the highest quality possible, and we offer a wide variety of models to suit ever need; from homesteading to commercial use. Swinging an axe to split logs is hard work and can quickly result in sore arms and shoulders. Get the Fiskars log splitter at Amazon or The Home Depot. Thomas Register and Hud-Son wood splitters are towable and built tough. This type of combo splitter varies slightly from a horizontal-only splitter in that the sharpened steel blade is positioned on the ram, just as it is on a vertical-only splitter. The benefit of adding a commercial log splitter to the equation is that it makes the work faster, more efficient, and more productive, and you can do it independently. On a vertical splitter, the sharpened blade is part of the ram itself. Due to its relatively smaller size, an electric model is an excellent choice if storage space is limited. Terms and Conditions, Most gas and electric log splitters are full-beam, which means the bed is long enough to support the entire log. This heavy-duty gas log splitter is built from the ground up with premium partscommercial GX200 Honda engine, NorthStar hydraulic cylinder with Hallite seals, and two-stage concentric pumpfor many years of hard work. Folding tongue standard. Champion Power Equipment 27-Ton Splitter at Amazon, Sun Joe 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter LJ602E at Amazon, Yardmax 9-Ton Electric Log Splitter at Amazon. Power Source: Electric | Driving Force: 5 tons | Cycle Time: 20 seconds | Vertical/Horizontal Options: No. For many people, a low to medium driving force will be sufficient. When you purchase products through our independent recommendations, we may earn an affiliate commission. Specialties: In 1982, Econo Air was established as the leading provider of home services in Southern California. Gas-powered log splitters are the most powerful type. Affordable. Manual log splitters come in various forms, but all rely at least partly on your own strength to get the job done. Power Source: Electric | Driving Force: 7 tons | Cycle Time: 15 seconds | Vertical/Horizontal Options: No, Struggles a bit with very hard or knotty wood. Today we pick pick up a demo model commercial grade log splitter from Eastonmade to test out on the property. This type of splitter can also be used safely in a garage since therell be no fumes to contend withor fuel to store. For this roundup, she considered dozens of log splitters, evaluating each for basic features, extras, and customer feedback. As such, our picks all feature suitable transportation options, from towable units to ones with wheels to others that are light enough to be carried around. 4. . Its sturdy steel construction will provide years of use, and the two back wheels make it easy to maneuver the device right where you need it. Thirty tons of force ensures this item will push through the toughest trees with the hardest, gnarliest grain with ease. Never owned one like this one, and I have been in the wood business my whole life.. Pump-style manual log splitters can generally tackle logs up to around 10 inches in diameter. Our 2020 Best Selling Log Splitters: Gas Log Splitters. Its an excellent investment for anyone needing to use it to stock up on firewood, but one customer who praised how it starts and runs explained that this splitter easily keeps up with their 20-ton splitter. To split logs in remote locations, on a homestead, or at home, the Fiskars Pro IsoCore Wood Splitting Maul is specifically designed to give you a clean and efficient split with every stroke. Use bricks or a block of wood to wedge the log splitters wheelsif it has themin place so the device cant roll or move unexpectedly. A good commercial log splitter isnt just a necessary tool for those who cut firewood for a living; these machines are also handy for farmers or homeowners who use a lot of wood every winter. Phone: (770) 727-7816. Curling up next to a crackling wood fire can be comforting, but the experience doesnt come cheap. Log Splitters Timberwolf's log splitters are made to be incredibly durable and built to last a lifetime. It did a great job, they wrote. This type of commercial splitter cradles logs in a horizontal splitting position which means that logs must be lifted onto the machine making this model less useful for larger logs unless it comes with a log lift, which, thankfully, most do.