Choosing the right log splitter depends on the size, hardness, and moisture content of the wood you plan to split. Bilt Hard offers a range of log splitters from a 6.5-ton electric model to a heavy-duty 40-ton gas-powered splitter. But how do you determine which tonnage is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Factors That Affect Splitting Force
1. Type of Wood: Hard vs. Softwood
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Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Cedar, Spruce) – Easier to split, requiring lower tonnage.
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Hardwoods (Oak, Hickory, Maple, Ash) – Denser and tougher to split, requiring higher tonnage.
2. Log Diameter
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Small logs (under 6-8 inches) – Lower tonnage is sufficient.
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Medium logs (8-12 inches) – Mid-range tonnage is recommended.
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Large logs (12+ inches) – Heavy-duty splitters are needed.
3. Log Length
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Most residential log splitters handle logs up to 24 inches long.
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For longer logs, ensure the splitter can accommodate the size.
4. Wood Moisture Content
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Green (freshly cut) wood is harder to split and requires more force.
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Seasoned wood (dried for 6+ months) is easier to split.
Choosing the Right Tonnage
| Log Splitter Tonnage | Best For |
| 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter | Small softwood logs (under 10 inches) |
| 20-Ton Gas Log Splitter | Medium-sized logs (up to 12 inches), some hardwoods |
| 25-Ton Horizontal/Vertical Gas Log Splitter | Larger logs (12-18 inches), hardwoods |
| 30-Ton Horizontal/Vertical Gas Log Splitter | Large, tough logs (18+ inches) |
| 35-Ton Horizontal/Vertical Gas Log Splitter | Extra-large logs, green hardwoods |
| 40-Ton Horizontal/Vertical Gas Log Splitter | The most demanding jobs, knotty and oversized logs |
Horizontal vs. Vertical Splitting
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Horizontal Mode: Best for smaller logs that can be lifted onto the splitter.
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Vertical Mode: Ideal for large, heavy logs that are difficult to lift.
- Horizontal & Vertical Combined: Offers the flexibility to switch between modes, making it perfect for handling logs of all sizes with ease.
Electric vs. Gas Log Splitters
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Electric Splitters (6.5-ton) – Ideal for residential use, quiet, no fumes, suitable for smaller logs.
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Gas Splitters (20-40 ton) – More power, portable, better for large logs and remote locations.
Final Thoughts
If you are splitting small, softwood logs for occasional use, a 6.5-ton electric splitter will suffice. If you frequently split large logs, especially hardwoods, a 25-ton or higher gas-powered model is recommended. For the toughest jobs, the 40-ton splitter is your best bet.
Ready to find the perfect log splitter? Check out Bilt Hard’s full lineup and get the power you need to tackle any log!
