Splitter Basics & Tips

Let hear it guys, what does everyone need to know about using a splitter? Video segment will be part of my May video, but I need your input.

 

#1 - Handle the rounds from the sides, never the ends to keep from hitting hands on the wedge or getting pinched.

 

that is some real good advice...if my episode had happened wo health insurance, it would have taken a lot of firewood to pay for the repair job

 

you and me both. I got really lucky (other than the obvious) and split the end of the finger right between the two nerves. Doc thought I would never regain feeling. All things considered, it healed pretty well and other than a slightly numb sensation most of the feeling came back too. I've probably split 50 cord since then and rest assured I am super aware of where my hands are at all times

 

Always split horizontally. Never use a milk crate.

 

Stand behind the split, not to the side of it. Every once in a great while a piece will crack suddenly with some force sending the splits flying to the sides. You don't want to get hit by it.

 

The putting a piece of pipe under a very big round trick is another good one to show.

 

It's good to have a hatchet around for the stringy pieces that don't quite separate all the way.

 

Care to elaborate?

 

Scroll down a bit. http://firewoodhoardersclub.com/forums/index.php?threads/the-lineup.1428/#post-28830

 

Wow, why didn't you tell me that one on Monday!

 

I have a dedicated horizontal splitter with a narrow wedge & stand on the side all the time. Anything that flies off from a sudden split has been pushed past me by the time it happens so in my case it is not a problem.

 

Some like to fight gravity.

Using the words "always & never"
Dead give away that you should do just the opposite LOL

Splitting vertical is logical, IMO
no lifting, can sit & split, splits don't fall on the splitter or toes, faster, easy on the back.

200 lb round, rolled to the splitter

 

Faster? I don't think so. But I'm not going to get off topic.

Have the splitter at a height, normally around waist height, to where you can split without having to be bent over.

 

That's why I haven't been able to get into vertical splitting, makes my back hurt and there doesn't seem to be a way for me to sit and make it comfortable-- not at my height.

 

I only vertically split the rounds that I can't physically pick up onto the beam. I'm 6'3" and bending over, even when sitting down, that far kills my back.

 

Exactly, 6'4 and I do it the same way.