As the name implies, as wood splitter generally referred to tools, equipment and machinery, with which you can split wood, mostly tree pieces, in logs. They are available in countless types and a rich selection of designs. The classic axis just as much a part of it as the simple, also manually operated, riving knifeand the foot or hand operated wood splitter , In addition, there are electrically operated devices in horizontal or vertical position, as well as impressive machines, which are driven by the shaft of a tractor. In the following we will illuminate the individual equipment a little closer.

The classic ax

A forged, steel blade sits with the eye on a metal, plastic or wooden handle. Tools of this kind were used already in the Stone Age. The wood is split into two parts with each stroke. A physically exhausting way to get wood to the desired size for the respective use.

The stable riving knife

A mostly made of carbon steel wedge, with a large hammeris smashed into the tree trunk to be split. Depending on the shape, the wood can thus be divided into two to four logs. A similarly power-consuming method as the ax.

Of the wood splitter with foot or hand operation

The foot-operated device is flat on the floor. The piece of wood to be split is inserted. Now, with the foot of the lever is stepped down. It creates splitting forces of more than one ton. By the ratchet principle, the wood is pressed with each step down to the riving knife and divided into two pieces. This method can be used to process quite long and thick stems.

The hand-operated version is attached upright to a sturdy wooden block. The piece of wood to be processed is placed vertically on the block, the riving knife sits on top. Now simply a movable weight is pushed up the pole and dropped. It’s even faster if you accelerate the weight down with a little momentum. After a few operations, the piece of wood is split.

The electrically operated wood splitter

These devices offer much more comfort than the mechanical variants. Who much firewoodneeds, with these machines good helpers at hand. They also generate much higher forces through hydraulic operation than the mechanical models – up to several tons, depending on the design. They are available in the horizontal or vertical version.

In lying version are often table models. Whereby these devices usually provide a comfortable working height even without a substructure. However, some manufacturers also offer models complete with frame or stand suitable for their machines. Of course, this is a relief for people with back problems.

When buying should be taken to ensure that wood splitter has a 2-hand security operation. Depending on the equipment, the wood is either divided into two or four parts in one operation. A simple transport is supported by rollers on the frame.

If you often work wood of different lengths, a continuously variable gap can save you a lot of time. If you do not have a high current, then watch out for operation with 230 V.

The advantage of standing wood splitter lies in the usually larger lifting height, whereby longer pieces of wood can be processed. Even with these machines, attention should be paid to safety features such as 2-hand operation or handle protection.

When using these machines, very large forces and stresses occur. Suddenly splintering wood can be catapulted out with momentum and lead to injuries. In general, a few points should be kept in mind when using all devices – especially those that are electrically powered:
– Carry out the assembly exactly as instructed.
– Only use the device for the applications described by the manufacturer.
– Note the maximum size specifications for the pieces of wood to be split.
– Make sure the wood splitter is secure.
– When working, wear firm shoes (preferably safety shoes), long pants and a jacket with long sleeves.
– Put on safety glasses.