Hydraulic Log Splitter

A hydraulic log splitter is capable of splitting large amounts of firewood with ease.

These machines can be used to split both hardwood and softwood, along with pieces containing knots which are often difficult to split manually.

Hydraulic splitters are typically powered by a four stroke gasoline engine.

You can also purchase a model that hooks up to a tractors hydraulic system, allowing it to be powered by the tractor.

Hydraulic oil contained within the machine is pumped though a valve that is controlled by the operator.

This pressurized oil operates a hydraulic cylinder that splits the log.

Models containing a two stage pump allow the hydraulic cylinder to operate at two speeds.

This decreases the time required for the hydraulic cylinder to cycle allowing you to split more wood in less time.

Most models have large pneumatic tires and a trailer hitch that allows them to be to be towed on the roadway.

The splitter will tow easily down the roadway, but they seem to bounce around quite a bit due to how light the unit is, and the narrow wheel base.

I typically try to avoid towing my splitter over long distances.

If I have a long way to go I load the splitter in a utility trailer which tows much better.

Horizontal or Vertical - Do You Need The Option?

Look for a model that spits both horizontally and vertically.

Most of the time you will use the splitter in the horizontal position because in my opinion it's quicker and easier.

For larger logs which may be too big to pick up, switch the splitter to the vertical position.

This prevents you from lifting the large logs onto the splitter, potentially injuring yourself.

Without the vertical option, you will only be able to split logs that can be lifted on to the splitter.

Hydraulic Log Splitter - How Big Of A Machine Do You Need?

I own a Huskee 22 ton log splitter with a 6.5 horse 190 cc Briggs and Stratton engine.

The 22 ton is one of the smallest hydraulic splitters you can buy.

I have owned this machine for several years and I have used it to split A LOT of firewood.

So far I have not found a single piece of wood this splitter could not handle.

Do I like it?

Yes, I love it!

Although they make larger machines, I really don't see why the average person who heats with firewood would need anything larger than a 22 ton machine.

The only thing I wish the splitter had was a log cradle on the side of the machine to rest the partially split logs on while I'm splitting.

The cradle would prevent me from having to bend over and pick up the partially piece of split wood.

Hydraulic Log Splitter - Overall

Most people will agree that once you own one you couldn't live without it.

They make processing a full years supply of firewood much easier than trying to split it by hand.

However, they are an expensive investment.

They are also loud machines that require the purchase of additional gasoline, and using ear protection.

If you're not sure if you want to spend the money, you can always rent one from a local rental company for about $50 a day.

Renting one could give you a better idea whether or not you would want to purchase one.

Overall, if you burn firewood, owning a hydraulic log splitter is a great investment.

About the Author

Nick Greenway

Obsessed with firewood, Nick is behind over 350+ of Firewood For Life's articles, as well as countless reviews, guides and YouTube videos to help readers like you reduce heating costs and create the perfect fire.