How Many Tons of Force Do You Need in a Log Splitter?

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

  • Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Cedar, Spruce) – Easier to split, requiring lower tonnage.

  • Hardwoods (Oak, Hickory, Maple, Ash) – Denser and tougher to split, requiring higher tonnage.

2. Log Diameter

  • Small logs (under 6-8 inches) – Lower tonnage is sufficient.

  • Medium logs (8-12 inches) – Mid-range tonnage is recommended.

  • Large logs (12+ inches) – Heavy-duty splitters are needed.

3. Log Length

  • Most residential log splitters handle logs up to 24 inches long.

  • For longer logs, ensure the splitter can accommodate the size.

4. Wood Moisture Content

  • Green (freshly cut) wood is harder to split and requires more force.

  • 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

  • Horizontal Mode: Best for smaller logs that can be lifted onto the splitter.

  • Vertical Mode: Ideal for large, heavy logs that are difficult to lift.

Electric vs. Gas Log Splitters

  • Electric Splitters (6.5-ton) – Ideal for residential use, quiet, no fumes, suitable for smaller logs.

  • 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!