If you are in the market for a new log splitter, you are either sick of splitting wood with an axe, or your current log splitter is not performing how you need it to.
With several commercial log splitter manufacturers and infinite box store units on the market, it can be difficult to narrow down your search, much less find a log splitter perfect for your needs.
Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a log splitter.
There Are Several Different Types of Log Splitters
All log splitters do the same thing, so they are all pretty similar, right?
Wrong.
Log splitters vary widely in design, power source, splitting force, and ease of operation.
For example, Timberwolf offers two log splitters with the same splitting force - the TW-2 and TW-3 - with two different power sources. The TW-2 is gas-powered while the TW-3 is PTO-driven.
On paper, these two machines may seem indistinguishable, but a choice can easily be made between the two of them, considering what the prospective buyer already has on hand.
If they have a tractor, the TW-3 would be the best choice because it is powered by a tractor and can be moved around via a tractor.
Someone living in a suburban area may prefer the TW-2 because of its economical engine and the fact that it is gas-powered.
Vertical vs. Horizontal Log Splitters
All current Timberwolf log splitters models are horizontal wood splitters, but there are many vertical splitters on the market - some log splitters can operate in both positions.
Vertical log splitter owners note that they don’t have to bend over as much, lift logs, and are able to split logs with more force, but all of these advantages can be achieved with commercial horizontal log splitters, like Timberwolf’s Alpha 6.
To keep it simple, ask yourself these questions when determining the type of log splitter you are going to buy:
- Where and when will I operate the machine?
- Do I have access to any other heavy-duty equipment?
- Will I be moving the machine around or operating it in one location?
Timberwolf Log Splitters for Different Operations
Timberwolf currently manufactures three different series of log splitters: The TW Series, HD Series, and Alpha Series.
The TW Series consists of the previously mentioned TW-2 and TW-3. These machines are constructed with heavy-duty I-beam frames and basic optional add-ons, like a table grate, 4-Way Wedge, or log lift.
With no optional add-ons, these wood splitters are meant to be reliable home log splitters. These firewood machines are perfect for the weekend warrior looking to split more firewood without all of the effort.
The HD Series consists of the TW-2 HD, TW-3 HD (PTO-driven), and TW-5 HD. These wood splitters are ergonomically designed with the spool valves located 36” off the ground, and made to operate for long periods of time because of the oversized hydraulic tanks that ensure cool and filtered fluid.
These models are appealing to those looking to sell firewood without spending too much on their initial investment. Similarly to the TW Series, a TW-3 HD would be perfect for someone that already has a tractor on hand.
Those splitting firewood for personal use may find HD Series log splitters unnecessary since they only split wood for an hour or two each week.
Alpha Series log splitters are Timberwolf’s top-of-the-line commercial log splitter with innovative hydraulic functions and a unique design that allows the machines to output 2 cords per hour from a single-man operation.
Starting at $12,545.95, Alpha Series log splitters are not cheap, and this is partly because they are used predominantly by firewood sellers. So, from their perspective, an Alpha Series log splitter is just an investment - a good investment, too.
Optional Features Can Make Big Differences
It can be difficult to look past a log splitter’s splitting force and engine power when considering a purchase, but other smaller features can make all the difference - especially when buying a home log splitter.
If you know that you will be working with smaller logs, splitting force shouldn’t be a huge concern. Instead, you should look for log splitters that are simple, easy to operate, and labor-reducing.
For example, the TW-2 is operated by a single spool valve (unless a hydraulic block lift is equipped) and can be additionally equipped with a manual or hydraulic log lift and/or a table grate.
The single spool valve eliminates any confusion, the block lift makes loading logs very easy, and the table grate can work as a waist-high sorting tray.
With this in mind, explore Timberwolf’s log splitters and find the one right for you!