Firewood Processor vs. Log Splitter and Conveyor

Which setup is more productive, a stand-alone firewood processor or a log splitter and conveyor?

Timberwolf’s Customers

Oftentimes, Timberwolf’s returning customers opt to add a conveyor in addition to their log splitter instead of purchasing a wood processor. This is not always the case, but many prefer to see how much they can increase their productivity without breaking the bank on a processor.

On the other hand, certain customers will choose to invest in a wood processor. Most often these customers are firewood sellers that deal with larger logs and require maximum productivity.

So, which setup is right for you?

Pricing

Timberwolf currently manufactures the following processors:

Pro-MP starting at $39,995.95
Pro-HD starting at $79,995.95
Pro-HD X starting at $89,995.95
Pro-HD XL starting at $99,995.95

Now, let’s compare these prices to a few log splitter and conveyor combinations.

A TW-2 log splitter and TWC-12 conveyor can be purchased for $7,500, but with the TW-2 only outputting 1 cord per hour, this setup will reduce labor but won’t noticeably increase productivity.
A TW-5 HD firewood splitter and TWC-16 conveyor will set you back $17,050, but you will be able to output 1.5-2 cords per hour in a comfortable position thanks to the TW-5 HD’s ergonomic design.
An Alpha 6 commercial wood splitter and TWC-32 conveyor (Timberwolf’s largest conveyor) can be bought for $25,050 and with the ability to output 2.5 cords per hour, will rival any entry-level processor on the market.

The pricing of these setups can be altered by choosing different machines, but for the most part, those looking for large cord outputs will require a larger conveyor.

Operation, Transportation, and Storage

While Timberwolf’s line of processors can output anywhere from 2 to 4 cords per hour, it is important to note that this is dependent on the experience of the operator.

A newbie may only split 1.5 cords with the Pro-HD XL while a veteran may be able to output 4.5 cords in an hour. Output is also dependent on the kind of logs you are working with.

The learning curve with a log splitter is much less significant, especially with smaller models like the TW-2 and TW-3.

As for transportation, only Timbewolf’s processors are approved for public roads. If you wanted to transport your log splitter and/or conveyor on a public road, they would need to be on a trailer.

Off-road transportation and indoor storage may be difficult with a processor because of its size.

Why Are You Splitting Firewood?

If you are unsure whether you should add a conveyor to your setup or purchase a new processor, consider why you are splitting firewood.

If you are a firewood hobbyist who splits from time to time for friends and family, you probably don’t need a firewood processor.

If you are trying to break into the local industry as a firewood seller, you may opt for one of Timberwolf’s commercial log splitters in combination with a conveyor or an entry-level wood processor like the Pro-MP.

To be clear, no Timberwolf machine will output cords as fast as the Pro-HD XL, but not everyone has $100,000 lying around. But if you are a firewood professional with your own business, look no further than the Pro-HD XL.