First Log Splitter Purchase

Hey Folks,

Newbie here, this winter was my first heating with wood. Looking to purchase my first log splitter and was hoping for some input. I had 6-7 cords of long-length firewood delivered (mostly oak as far as I can tell) that range anywhere from 12" - 24" in diameter and I plan on cutting it into 22"-24" lengths. I have my eye on the Yardmax 30 ton, half beam. This is obviously a long-term investment. Any other recommendations as far as tonnage, engine, etc?

 

I have a 22 ton Echo Bearcat. I find it's plenty powerful. A lot of people do very well with the basic big box/TSC models. If feel like you want to spend more money, I think it's better to get a model with a better engine (Honda, Subaru, etc. vs. China clone) rather than going up in tonnage. I'm certainly no professional, but that's my opinion.

 

Yes, don't fall for the big tonnage models, as they really are not necessary.

The old Didier splitter we have down here at the house is around 14 ton, and it splits EVERYTHING!
We also have a mtd 21 ton and it splits everything too.

 

I'll be watching this thread closely!

 

Ariens 22 ton has split anything I’ve tried to split.


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I'll second the Ariens 22 ton. Great machine with nice features and design.

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Welcome to club, soundboy !
You have found the right place!

I use the 22 ton Huskee. Haven't stalled it yet. It will either split it, cut it, or smash it.

Here's what I've being splitting with 22 tons...
Smells like BTU's
I just can't see spending twice the money for a 35 tonner


As far as the engine, I think most of the brands have a decent engine on them. I'd prefer a Kohler, Honda or Subaru, but the B&S are lasting pretty good. If my Briggs wears out before I do, I'll probably throw a Chonda engine on it from HF or just get another Briggs or similar with the same bolt pattern.

 

Really depends on your budget... I like the Honda engines, but they are not a necessity. Pay attention to the workspace. Some are much more open where you stand and split wood while others may have a fender directly in the way of where you stand and others may drop the wood splits on top the engine etc.... I bought mine slightly used with some freight damage.

Here's a variety...., not the cheapest though.


NorthStar | Log Splitters + Wood Splitters | Northern Tool + Equipment

 

This..

That is one of the reasons why the ariens 22ton is nice. The Subaru engine is a good one.

I believe that the ariens one is also sold as different brands as well.

 

It doesn't have to be.
I was looking at splitters every time we went to TSC.

Then one day a Huskee 22 tonner fell in my lap...
Good news

The are some great deals out there this time of year. Everyone has forgot about winter and they want to clean out the shed...

 

Another happy 22 ton huskee (now called country line) from tsc. Haven't found a log it can't split yet.

Just fyi, the higher the tonnage, the slower the cycle time.

Unless you plan on running a 4 way wedge constantly , 30some tons is way overkill.

 

I agree!
I added a hydro filter guard to mine

 

Speeco, Huskee and CountyLine (all from TSC) are all similar/same. Made by Speeco.

(Although the latest models look quite a bit different... Wonder if they changed manufacturers. Hope not!)

2 months ago TSC had the 25? tonner on sale for $850. Thats the lowest price I have seen since Black friday. Never saw the price that low before on just a regular sale. Thats why I was wondering if maybe they have a different manufacturer making their splitters.

 

Did the same on my Ariens

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Hmm... I'm surprised that the hydro filters don't come standard, especially on the more premium Ariens. I guess it must be a very competitive market to cut corners like that. Oh well, easy add-on.

 

The filters are standard, guards to protect them from falling split is not.

 

Ah, I see. Thanks.

 

I just bought a countyline 25Ton from TSC to replace a Northern Tool dual splitter.
It was fully assembled and full of fluids for 899+tax.
Cycle time is good and operator station is clear of the tire.

 

Thanks for all the feedback guys! Keep it coming! Seems like 22 ton range will do. I'm not much of a mechanic so a good engine that will last is important to me. How are the Kohler engines? I found a 2 year old 22 ton Dirty Hands on CL for $600 but the guy hasn't returned my call yet.

 

I would love a 4 way for mine.


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