Besides rear wheels, this log splitter is equipped with two leading front wheels, making it easy to move it where the device is needed. To do so, you only need to pull it by a stand.
The splitter is quite bulky.
Despite seemingly compact dimensions, the Forest Master FM16TW log splitter boasts some great power. When fitted with a Duocut blade, it's capable of splitting logs up to 600 mm in dia, allowing you to handle big loads of work in a shorter space of time. Comes with a long 3-year manufacturer warranty.
Horizontal
Hydraulic
2.3 kW
8 tons
600 mm
450 mm
522 х 278 х 1060 mm
78 kg
3 years
The self-lubricating hydraulic ram keeps all parts working smoothly and minimises the need for maintenance. This nullifies the risk of the device breaking due to a lack of care.
Some users have noted that this model is just a bit too noisy.
The Logmaster 7 Tonne isn't the most powerful model but it cuts wood cleanly and efficiently. While it is a bit noisy, the self-lubrication and easy cutting make it a great option for a busy man with a need for firewood or many logs to get rid of.
Horizontal
Hydraulic
2.2 kW
7 tons
250 mm
520 mm
465 x 250 x 940 mm
50.1 kg
1 year
Due to the lightweight design and overall compact dimensions, the Forest Master FM8 can be placed in a trailer or a crossover boot and transported over long distances if a need be.
Not suitable for wood logs longer than 370 mm.
Great for small wood. Best suited for those who'd rather use a log splitter than fumble with an axe. A must-have for any households that use logs for heating homes or often cook on a charcoal grill.
Horizontal
Hydraulic
2.2 kW
5 tons
250 mm
370 mm
510 x 270 x 780 mm
37 kg
1 year
Effective at splitting green wood and dry wood, softwood and hardwood. Provides an adequate power, boasts a very lightweight construction, and is very easy to run.
The return stroke limiting plate allows for only two positions.
Should you need an affordable yet powerful enough splitter with a stand, the Titan-Pro TPLS7T is your perfect choice. Being several times cheaper than its rivals, this log splitter provides the same amount of power and an adequate force of pressure, making wood splitting a fast and effortless task.
Horizontal
Hydraulic
2.2 kW
7 tons
250 mm
520 mm
510 x 270 x 940 mm
47.5 kg
1 year
The well-thought-out construction of the fixator guarantees that the logs won't move while you're working on them and no accidents will happen. The non-skid legs will also keep the device itself standing firm.
The power cord is relatively short.
Though this is a smaller log splitter than most, it's still pretty powerful and, above all, budget-friendly. If you want an affordable machine that will eat through wood with ease, this Logmaster model is a great and well-rounded choice.
Horizontal
Hydraulic
2.2 kW
6 tons
250 mm
520 mm
460 x 260 x 940 mm
48 kg
1 year
For Tremendous Tasks
Those people who are looking for an affordable yet reliable and heavy-duty electric log splitter should definitely consider purchasing the FM16TW splitter produced by Forest Master. Equipped with a 2300-watt motor, this tool delivers 8-ton splitting force which allows it to split average and big-sized logs in mere seconds. For greater performance, the manufacturer fitted it with a large 40-mm ram.
The FM16TW is designed to handle logs which are 450 mm in length or smaller. Obviously, this capacity might not be enough for industrial use, but if you are looking for a home-use option, it will surely suffice. Furthermore, by fitting the Duocut Blade (that comes in the kit), this capacity can be increased several more millimetres for handling slightly longer logs. Many consumers who've purchased this log splitter find it truly amazing saying they've never had such a great experience before. The tool has ample power to cope with literally all woods both seasoned and green in almost no time. And running it doesn't put any extra strain on hands as it comes with a stand that allows adjusting the tool to a comfortable waist level.
Two-Speed Log Splitter
The advantage of the FM16TW log splitter over some similar models is that it features two operating speeds. Running at the first speed (fast), it will take you only five seconds to split a thick log in one quick forward stroke. The second speed will allow you to handle logs of bigger size, although it might require a couple of goes. With an ergonomic lever, you can reduce the ram travel time when necessary. All these features make the FM16TW easy and straightforward in use.
A Reliable Machine
Those who highly appreciate quality and reliable products will be more than satisfied with performance and assembly build of the FM16TW log splitter. You can safely put your trust in the Forest Master company knowing that you're going to get a brilliant kit. The 3-year warranty from the manufacturer only proves that point giving you confidence in the product quality you buy. Though the FM16TW log splitter isn't lightweight, it nevertheless is quite easy to run and manoeuvre in tight locations as it comes with four caster wheels that allow for its easy moving. Yet, when it comes to splitting, it offers unbeaten performance, enabling you to do the job fast and efficiently and split longs in less than 11 seconds!
The delivery package of the FM16TW includes a strong duo blade and a substantial stand. The stand has a Ram Stop which enables you to shorten the ram travel distance (when working with smaller logs) and save your time and money on electricity bills.
Totally Worth It
If you've come to the market in need of a powerful and efficient log splitter that can handle easily logs of any size and type (green and dry, hard and soft), the Forest Master FM16TW hydraulic splitting machine may be your perfect option. It generates more than sufficient amount of power and force to split logs of birch and pine in less than 9-10 seconds and can save you the hard work and effort of doing it by hands. It isn't the cheapest of all log splitters on our review, that's true, but the splitting power and overall performance of the tool are well worth the money.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | £664.95 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B00GNDS320 |
No Maintenance Required
Although a wood splitter can be indispensable when it comes to dealing with logs, few people will say that keeping the large device clean is as fun as sawing logs in half with the sharp mechanical cutter. So if you want a machine that could saw a whole forest into timber yet won’t break down if you, let’s say, forget to clean it once or twice (or thrice), take a good look at the Logmaster 7 Tonne Hydraulic Splitter.
This model has a self-lubricating horizontal ram that not only decimates logs and provides you with firewood but also keeps the whole thing running smoothly. This self-lubrication means you won’t have to spend half an hour cleaning up the machine and digging for sawdust in all the nooks and crannies. Admittedly, it’s not the most powerful ram around with just 7 tons of power but it’s enough to get the job done and we’d still call it a heavy duty option.
The Logmaster 7 can easily do a quick split of any log that’s up to 250 mm in diameter and 520 mm in length. In practice, this means you might have to chop some of the bigger wood pieces apart and render them into small chunks but the rest of the job will be done for you, which is all you really need after all. This is the best log splitter for those who don’t care for maintenance and work with small logs.
Eats Through Wood
We do want to point out that the motor here is pretty powerful at 2.2 kw, easily going through about 100 logs in a single hour. That’s pretty good for a 7-ton splitter and it’s the ultimate sign of its efficiency. You could split many trees using this model and not even break a sweat. Though it doesn’t really support a multi cut option to go through even more logs at once, it’s still a solid choice.
This might not, however, be the best log splitter to use in the evening or when someone is napping in the vicinity. It really is one of the louder models out there, so much so that we recommend wearing some earmuffs when working with it. Perhaps that kind of loudness is just a sign of a powerful tool but it’s nice to come prepared.
A Trusty Helper
So, in the end, we have to say that the Logmaster 7 Tonne might not be a mini sawmill but it’s powerful enough to fulfill one household’s needs for firewood as it goes through logs quickly and efficiently. Though the noise might sometimes get annoying, the smooth and easy cuts with no need for maintenance will keep you satisfied for a long time. It’s a durable product that you can really rely on.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B0763P5RHF |
For Home Use
The Forest Master FM5 is a nice entry-level log splitter that may become a perfect choice for customers who own wood-burning stoves. It's able to manage logs of up to 250 mm in diameter and 370 mm in length and its splitting power can be further enhanced with a Duocut blade, which makes it a brilliant alternative to manual wood chopping with an axe. Though the FM8 doesn't come with a stand, it can be purchased additionally. Both the Duocut blade and the stand are available on the official website of the manufacturer. Moreover, you can easily use it with any other table or equipment made of sturdy materials. Despite the fact that we described this log splitter as a home-option, it would surely cope with many other tasks. With a powerful motor and amazing splitting force, the FM8 is one of the most attractive deals that can make your life easier without hitting your wallet.
Energy-Saving Electric Log Splitter
What stands this log splitter out from the competition is its light weight. With only 37 kg of mass, the woodcutter is equipped with a motor of a 2200-Watt capacity. This motor type is able to produce the pressure force of up to 5 tons which makes it suitable for chopping pretty much all wood types, including green.
More to this, in comparison with 2 level electric splitters, this hydraulic log splitter by Forest Master is up to 50% more electricity saving. It is a great advantage if you are looking for a tool that will be light on your family budget.
Unique Patended DUOCUT blade
The Forest Master Ltd is a leading manufacturer and designer of log holders, saw horses, stump grinders, wood chippers, and log splitters. All of their log splitters are equipped with a unique patented Duocut blade which provides twice the splitting power of any other wood splitting tool offered on the market. Also, their log splitters are compliant with the safety regulations, they have a simultaneous button and lever operation for two-handed operation.
You May Also Need
Those working on construction sites are likely to get interested in our selection of circular saws. With one at hand, slicing through various materials and making accurate cuts will be as easy as anything.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | £337.90 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B077G62LVN |
Compact and Powerful
The Titan-Pro TPLS7T log splitter will suit perfectly anyone no matter whether you plan to use it professionally or need a home-option tool. It's average-sized and lightweight at 47.5 kg and yet, the power it produces is more than sufficient to split easily both soft and hard wood. The 7-ton splitting force allows it to chop logs of up to 520 mm in length, making it easy for you to prepare small and average-sized logs without breaking in sweat. The combo of powerful performance specs and overall compact dimensions of the woodcutter makes it a fantastic choice for both professional and home use. No longer will you need to pick up an axe to chop wood, the Titan-Pro TPLS7T log splitter will eliminate this effort allowing you to do the work much faster.
Good Quality
The Titan-Pro is a leading company in the UK, manufacturing gardening machinery for over 10 years. All products produced by the Titan-Pro boast some great features and are surely worth special attention. The given log splitter isn't an exception. In addition to quality assembly build, the tool provides three horsepowers allowing you to chop all types of food in mere seconds, which is quite impressive, given the size of the tool. In terms of ergonomics and convenience features, the Titan-Pro TPLS7T features oversized rear caster wheels that allow for its easy transportation and comes with a ram stop attachment which makes it possible to adjust the travel time so that you could chop both small and big logs with greater convenience. Compared to other woodcutters produced by Titan-Pro, the Titan-Pro TPLS7T electric log splitter boasts the highest tonnage. With that, it doesn't seem to produce any noise, which contributes to the convenience of use of the tool.
Reliable Operation
Being made of strong and durable material, the Titan-Pro log splitter is doomed to serve you for a long time. To give you confidence, the manufacturer provides the tool with a full 1-year UK warranty and spares back up service, so you really have nothing to worry about. You can be 100% sure, with this log splitter wood chopping will be nothing but pleasure.
A Piece of Advice
For a home sauna or barbeque, you will certainly need already prepared split and well-dried logs. But how to store them properly? Here are a few tips that should help you do this right:
So, your firewood should be:
- sheltered from the elements;
- well-ventilated;
- kept away from open fire sources;
- put on a solid and stable base.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B009ACO2TE |
Safety Aplenty
Working with logs isn’t always safe but we wouldn’t say it’s the most dangerous task in the world. Especially if you have a trusty splitter backing you up with protection features. So if safety matters to you, and it absolutely should, check out the Logmaster D8797 Hydraulic.
This model has a special fixator that will keep the logs from moving or shaking while you’re sawing through them. Even if the load is particularly high, the Logmaster D8797 won’t be wobbling as you cut. Plus, though it has wheels for easy transportation, the device is also equipped with non-skid legs so it’s not going to slide out from under you or move until you explicitly want it to. That might be a doubly useful feature as the power cord here is quite short and it wouldn’t be good if the machine jerked suddenly and pulled the plug out of the socket. There’s sadly not much to protect it from this kind of sudden power discharge.
This model is pretty convenient in use thanks to its small size and the horizontal splitter. Although it can only tackle logs up to a certain size, it’s a solid choice for quick firewood creation. You can split a piece of wood that’s up to 250 mm in diameter and 520 mm in length in just a second or two. So if you want a model with fast operation, this might be the best log splitter for you.
Size Isn't Everything
We can certainly call the Logmaster D8797 an industrial-grade machine even though it only uses 6 tons of power instead of 7 and 8 tons that some of the bulkier and more expensive counterparts employ. It still uses 2.2 kW of power but it’s certainly no slouch in terms of dealing with logs.
You can’t however, compare it as an equal to some of the bigger machines considering that it weighs just 48 kg and its dimensions are just 460 x 260 x 940 mm. It’s not, technically speaking, a portable model but it’s certainly close to it. If you want the kind of log splitter that you can use and then quickly put away in a tool shed, this is certainly a good pick, especially if space is a factor for you. Besides, you wouldn’t be sacrificing that much power to get that concession in size.
What's Left
All things considered, the Logmaster D8797 Hydraulic might not be the most powerful log splitter out there, it’s a secure and fast-working one. It can tackle reasonably large logs, works at a good power level and doesn’t emit as much noise as some other industrial-grade models. If you want a budget-friendly machine that will help you chop up firewood fast, the Logmaster D8797 should certainly be a top choice for you.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B014WVKDTA |
What Is a Log Splitter?
In times of internet and automatic production, the maintenance of a homeowner’s vegetation became much easier thanks to the introduction of special machinery. For example, scythes, watering cans, hand saws, rakes – all of these house gardening implements have been gradually replaced with lawn mowers, smart sprinkles, chainsaws, leaf blowers, and other more powerful machinery. Log splitters can be founded on this list, too. And it doesn't matter whether you have got a fireplace or not, a log splitter will definitely become a useful addition to a country house inventory of any homeowner. Rather than fumbling with an axe trying to split wood, you can use a log splitter and cut down the time on wood logging. The operating principle of a log splitter is quite primitive, a log is split either with a screw cone that whirls at high speed or by pushing it against the wedge with a high-pressure force. At industrial sawmills, giant-sized log splitters are often a part of conveyor line. For residential use, however, manufacturers produce smaller and more portable tools which can be easily handled by anyone. For this review, we've chosen the 5 top-rated log splitters that can help you save a breathtaking effort of splitting logs by hands. Discover their features and choose the one that suits your tasks best.
What Features to Compare
You can find Vertically and Horizontally Oriented log splitters. The vertical ones usually take less space on the floor, they are a bit more powerful than horizontal-oriented log splitters and they can handle wood chunks of larger diameter. The only drawback to the vertical splitters is that they lack mobility and stability of horizontal-oriented type of splitters and that they require installation only on flat surfaces so that they couldn't tip over. You may also find two-way oriented splitters, but in general, we'd recommend all homeowners to opt for horizontal splitters which provide pretty much the same functionality but are considerably safer and easier to run.
As we've mentioned, the log can be split by being pushed with a hydraulic ram against the Wedge or the Screw Cone. The key feature of the cone is that the screw splits a log from any side, while the ram blade is more efficient when a log is placed with a cut-off side looking at the edge (along the branch growth vector). For home use, we'd recommend the ramming type, because it's more power-efficient and a cone screw occasionally requires changing.
Pressure Force is very important in log splitting. Industrial units may produce 20-40 tons of pressure force, but 5-10 tons are more than enough to chop the firewood for winter or a fireplace for common use. So, there's no need to overpay for a heavy force one, when you get all the same at a lower cost. Aim for 5-15-ton models.
Size matters. Check the Maximum Log Size that you can use the splitter with. And usually, it’s easier to move a splitter closer to wood storage, than the other way around. So choose the one that you can move by yourself. It’s worth mentioning that lately there are log splitters so compact that they fit a trunk of a usual car. And the models that won't fit in a pickup truck usually can be simply towed.
Speaking about portability, take a look at Power Supply. Some models can work with electricity from 110V socket. There are also gas-powered splitters, that you can take literally anywhere outdoors – even into the forest, but the real cons here are that they produce exhaust fumes and require more maintenance: cleaning gas tank from time to time, greasing the moving parts and so on. Finally, mechanical models can be taken anywhere and require only your hands to move the levers in order to split a wood, but usually, take a lot more time to split a log than other types.
Log splitters may come with other Features for safer and more comfortable operation. Let's find them out in our review of 5 great log splitters, and see for yourself what model is the best suitable for your needs.
FAQ:
Q: How to choose the right splitter for a household?
A: The main criterion here, of course, is the splitter force of pressure.
Q: What can the capacity of a log splitter be?
A: The log splitters can be divided into the following categories:
- Models with the force of pressure of up to 5 tons. They are intended, mainly, for domestic use. These log splitters allow you to easily prepare firewood for your house. They are relatively light in weight and compact in size.
- Splitters of 5-7 tons are most often used by community facilities, for example, to provide boiler-houses with firewood. These log splitters are able to work much more intensively than those for professional use, but at the same time, they have smaller dimensions and are lighter in weight.
- The log splitters which have pressure force of 7-25 tons are considered to be industrial machines. In addition to splitting logs, they usually combine several functions. For example, these models can also truncate decks.
Q: Which log splitter is better to choose - hydraulic or a screw cone model?
A: The general recommendation is simple: if you mainly chop wood that is bigger than 60 cm in length and 50 cm in diameter, you need to use a hydraulic splitter. For logging smaller wood, it'd be enough to use a screw-cone type of log splitter.
Q: What kind of an engine power source can a log splitter have?
A: You can find splitters of the following types:
- Electric splitters equipped with an electric motor and powered by a hydraulic ram;
- Wood splitters with a gasoline engine;
- Machines with tractor traction;
- Log splitters with a combined engine (used for industrial purposes).
A: The main parts of a hydraulic log splitter are: the main body, cylinders, jack stand, wedge, oil tank, pump, pressure distributor, motor, log cradle, and wheels (it depends).
Q: Are there only mobile log splitters or stationary as well?
A: Of course, you can find stationary log splitters as well. They are mainly intended for industrial use. Unlike log splitters for residential use, these ones are much heavier and bulkier. Even though they might have wheels, transporting them will be a difficult task, especially if you try to do this without assistance. Thus, if you do not look out particularly for a heavy-duty tool to use for commercial purposes, we'd recommend you to stick up with a mobile log splitter, which is usually much more lightweight and easier to run than any of the stationary log splitters on the market.
A: In order to get freshly chopped logs a real high-quality firewood, you need to fold and dry them. The simplest way to dry the wood is by allowing it to dry naturally providing it with good ventilation.
Sources:
1. Drew Hardy How to Choose a Log Splitter, MowTalk. December 14, 2012.
2. Oscar H. Will III Picking the Perfect Log Splitter, Grit. February 2013.
3. How to Pick the Perfect Log Splitter Style, Power Equipment Direct.
4. Grace Campbell 5 Essential Features to Look for in a Log Splitter, DR Power Equipment. July 31, 2014.
5. Marshall Brain How Log Splitters Work, HowStuffWorks.
6. Chris Baylor Top Woodworking Safety Rules, About. April 10, 2016.
7. Log Splitter Buying Guide, eBay. April 27, 2014.
8. Home Log Splitter Guide, DoItYourself.com.
9. J. Keeler Johnson The Beginning Farmer’s Guide to Log Splitters, Hobby Farms. June 15, 2016.