Compared to some of the other log splitters that I have used in the past, this one is pretty compact. It’s very sturdy when standing on a flat surface, yet it’s fitted with two wheels and a handle so that you can easily move it around. The Forest Master manual log splitter is easy to set up using an Allen key, and has a nice safety feature in the shape of a safety valve. This works to stop overloading and damaging the machine.

But most of all, when compared to the manual and petrols, they are light and can blitz massive logs, even with a 5 tonne rating like the Sealey and the Forest Master Fast Lightweight 5 Ton:

The Handy log chopper comes with a 1.8-meter power lead, which gives you the reasonable distance from the electrical outlet, that also without any extension cord. At 59 kg, it’s no lightweight. However, you can easily transport the machine using a pair of inbuilt wheels and handle. Firstly the kindling hatchet style with a large weight attached to a straight pipe. This is thrust into the timber and splits nicely. A bit vague to follow so worth taking a look at my in depth review. They call it the SMART SPLITTER. If buying a model without a stand I would be looking to safely bench mount it. No chance I’m leaning over all that time. This guy demos how to do it with a little 5 ton log splitter on the bench. I can’t show you that as mine is on a stand. So here’s a look at what he’s done and it looks plenty safe enough to me. It also makes the engage switch easier to access:

Pressure force: Another important factor to consider is the force a log cutting machine can generate. You can choose any of the models within 4 to 10 tones to prepare seasonal firewood. If you have some fireplaces in your house, then such variants can serve the purpose. Mains powered variants do not consume much of your time for maintenance, but such a machine is restricted due to a connecting power cable. Then comes the mechanical variants, which you can take anywhere. However, such a model needs manual power to go through wooden logs, which is time taking.Word of warning, given the way this is setup. You’ll find an 8-9 inch log minimum is best If you go shorter, the log may not push through the splitter deep enough to split the log as the stammer stops short. This is no problem at all if you have 8 inch and up logs. Just worth a mention if they are really short, in which case they probably don’t need much splitting anyway! Once you’re done wood splitting, you can then cover the blade over with the metal safety cap that Forest Master has provided. This allows you to leave the tool screwed onto your base log even while it’s not in use, since you won’t need to worry about anyone accidentally falling on it and injuring themselves. Splitting wood with an axe is very time consuming and most of us lead very busy lives these days and just don’t have those hours to spare but for small time use you could get away with one and some log spitting wedges. Types of Log Splitters The log splitter itself is a single-piece item that’s ready to be used straight out of the box. However, if you’re in the EU, the law requires you to assemble the safety cage, which takes a lot of time and patience. Have a look at some images online to work out how it’s done, since the instructions aren’t very helpful.

If you are a beginner and wants to cut small to medium-sized logs for residential usage, then FM8 might be a solid investment. The wood cutting machine is easy to use because it has two electric levers and buttons that you can operate safely by using both the hands. It comes with a workbench and safety guard, which also allows you to contain the logs. The guard keeps all the debris contained and hence, keeps you safe from any injury or scratches. Best electric log splitter: Forest Master Fast Lightweight 5 Ton 2200 Watt Electric Hydraulic Log Splitter [personally known and used this log splitter for years – bullet proof] When used in single blade mode, this model splits logs up to 52cm long with a maximum diameter of 300cm. When you use the log splitter in twin-blade mode, the maximum spitting length is reduced to 43cm, but the maximum diameter increases to a very impressive 60cm, which is a seriously large log.

The dropping ‘hammer and wedge’ splitting action is a great idea and is much safer than using an axe.

The Portek Charger Quiksplit 8.5 Ton Log Splitter provides both power and speed. Using an impressive 8.5 tons of pressure, this model has a splitting cycle of under one second. This is due to the flywheel technology it uses instead of the more standard hydraulic system. This model is more expensive than other log splitters but time is money, and you do save a lot of time with this model. Best vertical electric log splitter: The Handy THPLS8TE Vertical Electric Log Splitter Why choose an electric log splitter over a manual or petrol and what to look for when buying The Portek Charger Quiksplit 8.5 Ton Log Splitter is a heavy machine at 73kg but the designers have done what they can to alleviate any difficulties caused by this. Wheels on either side of the stable front structure let you move the unit around your workspace. The handles are padded so that you don’t grow blisters as you pull or push the heavy machinery along. The only difficulty is in transporting this splitter up and down any steps. Bearing in mind all that it offers, this hydraulic electric log splitter comes in at a great price. Not only are you paying for high-quality parts and solid manufacturing, but you also get a machine that’s quite fun to use!Adjusting the height for the log splitter is as simple as lifting it onto the log – image credit: Forest Master If you just like to sit around a campfire or fire pit and have a beer or two with some friends, then it might not be worth investing in a log splitter. Perhaps a super cool log splitting drill bit that is a relatively new addition to the log splitting arsenal. To determine the best log splitters, I conducted a comprehensive evaluation, assessing each model on its assembly, design, performance, ease of use, safety, and value for money. These categories were chosen to provide you with a well-rounded understanding of each log splitter’s capabilities. Here’s how I tested each element: you’ll note I mention the half metre log chop space, that’s no sales scam, this thing will take on decent half meter length logs – the 3kW motor helping that. The smaller 5 ton only have 2.2kW so this is a good 30% more powerful.