I've hand split my wood for years and Father Time has finally caught up with me. I decided to research and purchase a basic wood splitter. After several hours of googling, reading, and comparing I determined to find out who builds them and where the companies were located. So pleased that I went to the Bilt Hard website and learned about them. Most of my research had been on large company websites but I like to buy 'American'. After I went to bilthardusa.com it was all over. The splitter was less expensive on their website. I ordered it. In 3 days it was delivered. It's great, I love it, and use it serveral days each week. I split mostly juniper for kindling (very easily) and have tried pinyon pine which doesn't split as easily but it's doable. I have a lot of honey locust which splits fine but is a much tougher wood than juniper or pinyon. I have tried some large knotty pieces of locust but am very careful not to overtax the splitter. As long as I stay with the smaller wood it's great. I do not split wood to sell to others only for personal use. For personal use I think it's a great piece of equipment and I'm very pleased.