Choosing the Right Firewood Equipment for Your Needs: A Practical Guide
As temperatures drop and wood stoves start crackling to life, many homeowners and firewood professionals turn their attention to the essential equipment that makes splitting, processing, and handling firewood faster and safer. Whether you're heating your home off-grid or running a commercial firewood operation, having the right firewood equipment is key to productivity and efficiency.
In this post, we’ll break down the core types of firewood equipment, what to consider before buying, and how to make your setup work smarter—not harder.
1. Log Splitters: Hydraulic Muscle for Serious Work
If you’re still swinging an axe for all your splitting, you’re working too hard. Log splitters—especially gas-powered or electric hydraulic models—can save countless hours of backbreaking labor. They come in several configurations:
- Horizontal splitters are compact and great for small batches.
- Vertical/horizontal combo splitters offer flexibility for large, heavy rounds.
- Kinetic splitters use flywheel systems for incredibly fast cycle times.
Pro tip: For regular use, look for a splitter with at least 20–30 tons of splitting force. Larger hardwoods or knotty rounds will require more power.
Timberwolf manufactures a variety of horizontal firewood splitters, including a mixture of tried-and-true designs and newly released innovations in the biomass processing industry. From the TW-2 and TW-LS small, compact firewood splitters, to the TW-HD heavy-duty log splitters, and the AutoSplit and Alpha 6 commercial box wedge log splitters, Timberwolf splitters are overbuilt to last for years of reliable splitting. 
2. Chainsaws: The Workhorse of the Woodlot
A quality chainsaw is non-negotiable. Whether you're felling, bucking, or trimming, your saw needs to match the workload.
- Homeowners cutting 1–2 cords/year can usually get by with a 16–18” bar, mid-range saw.
- Serious processors should invest in a professional-grade saw with a 20–28” bar for faster, cleaner cuts and longer life.
Don’t forget routine maintenance—sharpening, cleaning, and safe storage keep your chainsaw cutting efficiently and safely.
3. Firewood Processors: When Volume Matters
For those processing 10+ cords annually—or running a firewood business—a firewood processor is a game-changer. These machines can cut and split logs in one continuous motion, reducing labor and increasing throughput.
Key features to look for:
- Log capacity (length and diameter)
- Cycle time (faster = more productivity)
- Portability (trailer-mounted models can be towed to job sites)
- Hydraulic log lift or conveyor options
Bonus: Many processors now come with integrated log decks, which save your back and your crew’s time. All Timberwolf log processors come standard with a live deck (the Pro-LP's live deck doubles as a log lift). For operators who need more output, the Pro-MP XL and Pro-MP Diesel Timberwolf processors are a great step up from an industrial log splitter or the smaller and mobile Pro-LP. Our top-of-the-line wood processor, the Pro-HD XL, will produce up to 5 cords of premium firewood per hour.
4. Log Conveyors & Elevators: Speed Up Your Stacking
No one enjoys moving split wood by hand. That’s where firewood conveyors shine. These belt-driven systems move split pieces from the splitter directly into trailers, bins, or woodpiles.
Benefits:
- Reduces manual labor and risk of injury
- Speeds up the processing line
- Keeps your worksite clean and efficient
Pair a conveyor with your splitter or processor for a one-person setup that gets the job done.
Current Timberwolf customers frequently recommend adding a biomass conveyor to their operation prior to upgrading their log splitter, as they have an incredible ability to boost production (and profit!). Available models include: TWC-12, TWC-16, TWC-24, and TWC-32.
In addition to wood conveyors, Timberwolf also offers a line of firewood accessories to complement any firewood business. Accessories include the AutoFine, a disc screener, the TW-10, an extra large log splitter for handling the toughest jobs, and a log grapple and firewood bundler.
5. Safety Gear: Because It Only Takes One Mistake
Every piece of firewood equipment comes with risk. That’s why quality safety gear is essential:
- Chainsaw chaps and gloves
- Steel-toe boots
- Protective eyewear and hearing protection
- Helmets (especially for felling)
No cord of wood is worth a trip to the ER. Invest in gear, and use it every time.
Final Thoughts: Start with Your Goals
Before buying any new equipment, ask yourself:
- How many cords per year do I process?
- What types of wood am I working with?
- How much time and help do I have?
- What’s my budget?
From compact home setups to industrial firewood operations, there’s equipment built to fit every scale. Taking the time to match the right tools to your workflow can save years of stress—and make wood season something you actually look forward to.
For detailed information on all our machines, view Timberwolf Equipment brochures here.
Want to see the latest in firewood equipment tech? Follow Timberwolf Equipment on social media to see the newest innovative additions to our product line.