Should You Own Your Own Log Splitter?

For anyone with a lot of wood to cut, owning a logChildren should never be allowed to operate this
splitter can be a very good investment. If you have aequipment, and should not even be allowed near it
fire place, or if you like to make log furniture, it will paywhen it is operating since flying debris could injure
for itself in no time. A log splitter can be purchasedthem. Anyone who is operating a log splitter should
where logging equipment is sold, or you can try to findwear heavy work boots for foot protection, and no
a new one or make your own to save money.loose clothing or long sleeves which can be caught in
A hydraulic log splitter is a simple machine consisting ofthe machine. Safely glasses are also important for eye
a small Edsel of gasoline engine, an out pump and aprotection.
hydraulic cylinder. The engine powers the machine, andBefore operating this machine, be sure to read the
the oil pump powers the cylinder, which splits the logs.manual and be thoroughly familiar with the machine. Be
The oil pump has an oil tank and the oil has to besure no one stands close enough to the machine that
periodically changed.they may be hit by pieces of wood flying out. When
Hydraulic log splitters usually range from 5 to 8 hp.the machine is in motion, don't try to adjust the wood
Splitters intended for home use will have a smallerpieces. Make sure to use it only during the day and
engine than a commercial one with 10-25 tons ofnever operate a dangerous machine like this while
splitting power.under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is important
Most people obtain a home splitter to cut theirnot to use it on a surface that is damp or may be
firewood. First a tree is cut and all of the branchesslippery and keep the safety guards on the machine at
removed, using a chainsaw. The trunk of the tree isall times. A log splitter should only be used for splitting
cut into small pieces with a chain saw and then fedlogs, no other material.
into the splitter. The entire process of cutting wood isBesides chopping firewood, a log splitter is great for
fast and easy this way, and jobs that may take daysmaking log furniture. If you like the look of this rustic
without a splitter can be done in a matter of hours.furniture, or if you are interested in selling it, yo will also
Needless to say, a log splitter can be very dangerous.need a chain saw and some other tools.