How To Split Large Logs With A Log Splitter?

Perhaps you support manual work 50%, but the other 50% is reserved for innovative tools and equipment.

Woodcutters or lumberjacks fall in this category because their profession requires various machines. I am about to tell you the best way to utilize the splitter for those who have one and seek an affirmed direction to use it.

So, how to split firewood and logs with an axe, you say? It is easier done than said! So, put aside that maul for a minute and keep reading.

Why Use A Log Splitter?

Sometimes heavy lifting and superhuman bodily strength do not cut it. In addition, there are times when the person has minimal energy and stamina to carry out the basic log splitting procedure.

Does that mean you stop working on it altogether? No, all these hardwood rolls need is a log splitter that replaces the heavy work for you. Here are some reasons to rely on a log splitter:

• Delivers more splitting force than human energy is capable of 
• Ideal for hardwoods as they have denser and tougher within wood fibers
• You will not have to wait till the wood is well seasoned, which takes roughly about six months
• Accelerates log splitting process, whether felled freshly or after dried 
• Yields more split logs than a traditional ax can produce
• Essential for daily use (if your job entails wood splitting green or dry in bulk)
• Comes in different types to accommodate your situation (electric, gas)
• You will hardly feel beat at the end of the day 

Types of Log Splitters

Although many of us prefer characterizing the log splitters by size, it’s all about the motor type and its advantage. This is how you can learn the torque amount the machine can produce.

Still, to put things simpler for the newbies – go with medium/small for splitting small logs. And those whose livelihood depends on the work should definitely rely on the colossal, powerful log splitters.

On the other hand, sometimes it is all about the log quantity a day than the size. So the more logs you need to split, the more efficient and the bigger/more powerful equipment the machine ought to be.

Now, how do you determine the variety when checking out a sale?

1. Electric

A small list of advantages is below: 

• Highly powerful 
• Super-efficient 
• Requires low maintenance 
• Useful for more than 100 hours nonstop 
• Needs no guidance to use 
• Not noisy

It has a small disadvantage, though:

• Must have a suitable electrical outlet to plug-in 

2. Petrol

How does a petrol log splitter benefit you? Read it here:

• No hassle of plugging
• Greater quality output 
• Work where the logs are 

And the cons include:

• Heavier than any variety 

3. Manual

It’s a small tool that you utilize with hands and body strength. Its pros are:

• Convenient to store 
• Lightweight 
• Efficient and safe 
• No need for power or fuel 
• Environmental friendly 
• Produces splitting power up to 8-10 tons

There is always a drawback: 

• Requires more energy and effort 

How To Split Large Logs With A Log Splitter?

First of all, have you equipped yourself with safety glasses, gloves, etc.? You better have them on whether split logs with or without the splitter. 

So here goes the process explained in the most rudimentary language possible:

1. Prep the large log rounds with a log jack before placing onto the machine (only if the machine is small, otherwise ignore it)
2. Power up the log splitter for large diameter logs (when using the electric motor)
3. Do you see the track alongside the wedge? Place the log there grip its side carefully.
4. Move to the splitter side.
5. Pull the safety bar in your direction and push it for 2 to 3 seconds.
6. This motion activates the piston structured to split the log into two parts.
7. Never go near the wedge; always turn off the machine after use. 

How To Split Large Logs Without A Log Splitter?

Does the lack of a log splitter force you to follow the old-school method? Fear not, for I have got just the perfect process for you:

1. Splitting large oak rounds is physically demanding if you do not apply certain tricks. For instance, get a maul instead of an ax for its dull edge. It does not get stuck into the wood. Also, prop the log on a large block.  
2. Raise the maul and let it drop between the center and round edge. Make sure to stand in the way that doesn’t exert much energy.
3. Now take another maul/ax and hammer the stuck one. You will begin to hear splitting sounds like distant thunder in the sky! 
4. Do not stop till the maul is halfway into the log.
5. Take it out (might require some hauling). 
6. Lift the maul and drop it again between the center and round edge on another side. Continue hammering till the log splits.

FAQ

Final Verdict

A little tip on how to split large logs with a log splitter – dense log rounds are difficult to split when cut recently. So let them soak in the sunlight and age for a few months. 

It aids with swift split even when using an ax/maul. 

Hopefully, this article has been a great help to the people trying to store split logs before the season changes and for the rookie woodworkers!

Learn more:

• How To Keep Green-Wood From Splitting [4 Simple Tips]
• How To Split Green Wood? (Safety, Equipment & Manual Splitting)
• How To Split Logs Without An Axe (8 Methods)
• Will Polyurethane Keep Wood From Cracking?