I'm sort of set on getting a log splitter either this year or next. I'm thinking it's not only a great survival tool (despite needing gasoline and periodic engine/hydraulic oil changes) but it would obviously see service in "normal" times.
I've split about a single cord of wood from storm damage from Sandy and it took me several hours over two days. I figure those same several hours could net more than just a single cord of split cord wood and I could probably do several cords in a day. I'd like to get several seasons ahead - My estimates suggest I'll burn between 4 and 4.5 cords per heating season - so I'd like to be able to dedicate a two or three weekends and get 15 or 16 cords cut initially and then just replace what I burn so continually have 3 years worth of wood.
I've narrowed my choices to a Honda-powered unit that's capable of horizontal and vertical operation and between 20 to 30 tons of force. Any thoughts/experiences?
Some of my "candidates":
1. Troy Bilt (27 ton): http://www.lowes.com/pd_116418-270-24BF572B711_?productId=1005417
2. Northstar (30 ton): http://www.amazon.com/NorthStar-Hor...1356999803&sr=1-4&keywords=northstar+splitter
3. Cub Cadet (25 ton): http://www.cubcadet.com/equipment/c...-cleanup/log-splitters-and-chainsaws/ls-25-cc
Keep in mind I have no experience with hydraulic/gas-powered splitters. Source wood will be felled timber on my property and purchased grapple loads.
I've split about a single cord of wood from storm damage from Sandy and it took me several hours over two days. I figure those same several hours could net more than just a single cord of split cord wood and I could probably do several cords in a day. I'd like to get several seasons ahead - My estimates suggest I'll burn between 4 and 4.5 cords per heating season - so I'd like to be able to dedicate a two or three weekends and get 15 or 16 cords cut initially and then just replace what I burn so continually have 3 years worth of wood.
I've narrowed my choices to a Honda-powered unit that's capable of horizontal and vertical operation and between 20 to 30 tons of force. Any thoughts/experiences?
Some of my "candidates":
1. Troy Bilt (27 ton): http://www.lowes.com/pd_116418-270-24BF572B711_?productId=1005417
2. Northstar (30 ton): http://www.amazon.com/NorthStar-Hor...1356999803&sr=1-4&keywords=northstar+splitter
3. Cub Cadet (25 ton): http://www.cubcadet.com/equipment/c...-cleanup/log-splitters-and-chainsaws/ls-25-cc
Keep in mind I have no experience with hydraulic/gas-powered splitters. Source wood will be felled timber on my property and purchased grapple loads.