If you’re in the market to upgrade your manual log splitting process to something far easier and less time consuming, a hydraulic log splitter could be the best option for you. If you hate the work it takes to split logs, a log splitter will be a dream come true for you. Hydraulic splitters split logs fast with the assistance of applied pressure. They are reliable, efficient, and allow you to do the heavy duty work that used to take you hours in just a short period of time.
Investing in a log splitter could be one of the best decisions you ever make, but it also might cause you some frustration if you’re new to log splitters, especially as there are so many out there including gas log splitters, electric log splitters, and other wood splitters to name but a few. We’ve compiled a list of the best hydraulic log splitters available on the market today.
Wel-Bilt Hydraulic Log Splitter
Capable of splitting 18-inch long and 6.5-inch wide logs, it features 10 tons of RAM driving force and comes with a 1-year limited warranty. This log splitter is lighter than others similar to it at 94 pounds. It has two wheels on the pump, so it’s easy to handle. It also features a cradle to hold the wood steady. It is solid pump structure makes it sturdy and capable of handling tough and repetitive usage.
Horizontal Log Splitter Wood Cutter Manual Hydraulic 2 Speed Wheel
This hydraulic log splitter is capable of handling 18-inch long and 6.5 inch wide logs. It has a 10-ton RAM driving force and a 2-year warranty. It works by applying pressure through a hydraulic pump. It’s a smaller splitter but works well for its size. It has two speeds and splits logs easily using 10 tons of pressure. The machine comes on two wheels and it is light enough to roll just about anywhere you need it on your property. The log cradle prevents the wood from falling to the ground—so no bending and lifting—and it has an overall rigid body that’s capable of standing up to long-term use.
Sun Joe LJ10M Logger Joe Manual Log Splitter
The Logger Joe can handle 18-inch long and 8-inch wide logs. It has a 10-ton RAM driving force and comes with a generous 2-year warranty. This is one of the simplest designed log splitters on the market. It has a rigid body and weighs about 87 pounds. The hydraulic pump on this splitters gives a massive impact when in use. There are two speed variations that are capable of building up to 10 tons of pressure, which is enough to split pretty sizable logs. It also prevents choking. The splitter is easy to move and has a stainless steel body that can stand up to heavy-duty work.
International Forest King YTL23101 Manual Log Splitter
This log splitter features a 13.5- to 18-inch long and 6.5-inch wide log splitting capability. It has 10 tons of RAM driving force. This splitter features a cradle that prevents logs from falling to the ground once they’re split. The pump structure is solid and even though it’s small, we found it to be incredibly effective. It creates plenty of pressure, so it can split even the biggest, densest logs.
It features two wheels, which makes it easy to move from job to job without a great deal of effort. This is a great option for people who need something that can stand up to heavy-duty jobs. It does require some ongoing maintenance, but it’s worth it because this machine will last a long time and get the job done over and over again. It has a solid body construction and high-quality handles that will likely last a long time.
The Smart Splitter
This splitter is a simple machine that can handle 14-inch long and 14-inch wide logs. It has a RAM driving force of 14 tons and the company claims to offer a lifetime warranty. We love this splitter’s innovative design that makes it one of the safest option on the market. It’s perfect for use by people who aren’t necessarily handy or experienced when it comes to chopping or splitting wood.
It has a solid body that’s built to last, and the manufacturer even promises a lifetime warranty. The splitter offers 14 tons of pressure, which is a lot, especially for a hydraulic splitter in this price range. It’s low maintenance and capable of splitting wood ranging from green to seasoned.
You’ll get an all-weather cover with this splitter, so you can leave it outdoors and not worry about damage from the elements.
The one thing that’s important to know about The Smart Splitter is that there is some assembly required. You’ll need to install it on a wood log, about 14 inches and 14 to 15 inches in diameter. You’ll drill a hole so there is room for the logs and then install and tighten the gauge. It’s an easy assembly, but we don’t’ want people making their purchase without realizing there is some work involved before you can get started spitting.
Ultimately, which hydraulic log splitter is right for you comes down to a few factors. First, what’s your budget? Most of these options are affordable, but some are cheaper than others. There are also log splitting options out there that are much more expensive and come with more bells and whistles; so if you’re willing to spend more, shop around.
Next, you’ll want to consider the splitters durability. We chose ones that can stand up to a lot of use and handle the elements, so you can’t go wrong with any of the items on this list. Of course, a lifetime warranty is not just a cost-saving option, it also gives you peace of mind so if durability is your number one priority that lifetime warranty might be right for you.
Finally, consider the actual work the splitter will need to do. How often will you use it? Will it be handling big jobs or just cutting some firewood each year for your home heating? How large is your property and do you intend to do any cutting down of trees anytime soon? These factors will all play a role in the decision you ultimately make.
