Heating with wood is a popular way for people to keep their electric bills lower through the winter, especially in the northern climates that have lingering cold spells. Even warmer climate see many homes equipped with a fireplace as having that option when temperatures drop create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
But to effectively heat with wood, you need to have a good stack of firewood available to keep that fire fed. That chore can quickly become exhausting if you are splitting it yourself, or expensive if you have to have it constantly delivered. A good gas log splitter takes the effort out of this and provides you with a usable firewood pile in no time. The following gas log splitter reviews highlight models well worth considering.
We've also chosen our overall favorite log splitters, a list which includes both gas and electric models.
5 Best Rated Gas Log Splitter Comparisons
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Troy Bilt TB 27 LS Hydraulic Log Splitter |
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YARDMAX YU3066 30 Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter |
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Champion 7-Ton Compact Horizontal Gas Log Splitter with Auto Return |
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Champion 37-Ton Horizontal/Vertical Full Beam Gas Log Splitter |
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Rugged Made 37-Ton Push Through Gas Log Splitter w/ Log Lift & Catcher |
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Gas Log Splitter Overview
Log splitters are a popular tool to have that come in a very wide selection of strength and power to help make short work of your wood pile. Made for both residential home and business use, a splitter can be powered in various ways: manual, electric, and gas are all the options you can consider. They also are fairly easy to make and many directions exist online to do so.
Since almost all wood splitter types depend upon hydraulic power, the power force provided helps determine the details of what each machine is capable of. Gas engines perform better and the options are amongst the most powerful you can buy. Many also allow you to split logs both horizontally and vertically, are very portable, and are fairly easy to maintain.
What a Gas Log Splitter is Capable Of?
Gas splitters, when compared to other tyepsof splitters, are some of the most powerful and capable models you can buy. Everything from more compact designs to larger, tow behind styles exist to take care of even the largest job you can throw at it. Powered by a 4-cycle engine, they do require regular maintenance, but this is fairly simple and requires keeping fluids (gas and oil) at proper levels, spark plugs clean and working, air filters cleaned out, and simply looking over everything and keeping it clean and in good running order.
If you are wondering whether gas performs better then consider that these are a louder machine compared to other styles, and can take care of seriously large logs- both in width and height. They also can throw some serious tonnage (explained below) to split dense or green woods. Because they work quickly and efficiently through large, heavy loads, they are an excellent choice when you want to make short work of your firewood needs.
Gas splitters are also typically the choice of commercial firewood businesses as they can be towed to just about anywhere they are needed, and the output is much higher than the amount of energy you spend to keep it loaded. This allows you to get jobs done quickly for maximum profit, and allows you to split on site for storm cleanup or other property maintenance needs.
What to Pay Attention to When Choosing a Gas Splitter
Any time you are deciding to make a purchase of this caliber, you should first understand your own needs so you can narrow down your choices for the best possible model. Gas splitters do come with many variables to consider, such as overall tonnage, weight, and size for hauling and storage. Be sure to pay attention to the following details to understand the models you are considering.
Tonnage
Tonnage is used to describe the amount of force in tons is being applied to your logs.
The description of the model you are considering will provide you the overall max tonnage so you know what limitations you may have. Something to consider to help you understand how this works: the larger and greener a log is, the more pressure required to split it. For example, a 12 inch aged log only needs about 7 tons of pressure to split, but a green log of the same size needs 16 tons.
Seasoned Wood
Seasoned, or aged, wood has been allowed to sit for a period of time (usually 6 to 12 months) after being bucked into logs. Fresh cut wood is still very dense and heavy, and requires much more force to split that older woods. If you are using a splitter for storm cleanup and property maintenance then you may want to consider a very durable, stronger model than one designed for typical firewood cutting.
Wood Types
Not all wood is made the same. You only have to look up at the canopy of trees to understand this, but what a tree looks like is only the tip of the iceberg in understanding their differences. Hardwoods, defined by deciduous trees, are much more dense overall than softwoods, defined by evergreen trees. There is also a wider range of hardwood densities ranging from highly dense woods such as oak or maple, compared to softer hardwoods such as aspen or birch.
Log Size
Most splitter models have a maximum log length it can handle. It may also have a diameter limit as well. Be sure to look over these measurements in advance to ensure it can handle the future jobs you have in mind for it.
Automatic Ram Return
The automatic ram return refers to how quickly the splitter returns back to a start position. Quick returns allow you to reload and keep working without having to wait for the machine to reset itself. For large loads you want a quick return rate.
Top 5 Rated Gas Log Splitter Reviews
The following reviews showcase some of the best gas log splitters you can consider. These are popular models based on consumer ratings that are considered highly effective and dependable for years of use on variably sized job loads.
Troy Bilt TB 27 LS Hydraulic Log Splitter
- Type: Gas Horizontal/Vertical
- Tonnage: 27
- Max Log Capacity Length: 25 inches
- Warranty: 2 years
Well known by both homeowners and business owners alike, Troy Bilt machines are a common brand for DIY projects. The LS Model boasts a 27 ton ram force and can split both horizontally and vertically. With the ability to handle logs up to 25 inches in length, this is a great choice that is neither too big nor too small for handling heavy loads. Check out our Troy Bilt 27 ton log splitter review in more detail here.
Set on durable wheels and with a universal hitch it can be transported wherever you need it. Plus, it has a 19 second cycle return, allowing you to work quickly without having to wait to reset. A cast iron splitting wedge can last a lifetime as this machine, built for serious wear and tear, can show.
Pros
- Lasts through years of use
- Loads well and cuts smoothly
- Very powerful
Cons
- Log tray could be wider
- Keep protected from moisture
Pro Tip
Made for heavy use, this splitter is perfect for home use without being too large, but also can handle commercial firewood cutting jobs with ease.
YARDMAX YU3066 30 Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter
- Type: Gas Horizontal/Vertical
- Tonnage: 30
- Max Log Capacity Length: 26 inches
- Warranty: 3 years workmanship and materials (2 on engine, 1 on hydraulics)
Yardmax is a very popular, trusted brand name that provides dependable tool for home and commercial uses. Their gas splitter options are very powerful indeed, and the 30-ton splitter is run by a 306cc 4-cycle engine that is capable of splitting logs up to 26 inches long both 2 and 4 ways. This is one of the largest the brand offers and provides both a vertical and horizontal cutting surface for your convenience with an easy to use swivel plate.
This model also provides dual log cradles that are adjustable and add stability to the cutting surface. Pneumatic tires and a universal hitch makes it easy to move from one place to the other and allows for a very stable work surface.
Pros
- Comes together easily
- Incredibly stable and easy to use
- Powerful enough for just about anything
Cons
- Accessing oil is tricky
- Pivot point on hitch may rust
Pro Tip
This is a machine made for heavy use. It can handle large jobs and run until the job is done. The powerful driving force is perfect for both home and business use.
Champion 7-Ton Compact Horizontal Gas Log Splitter with Auto Return
- Type: Gas Horizontal/Vertical
- Tonnage: 37
- Max Log Capacity Length: 24 inches
- Warranty: 2 years
Most gas options are a bit larger overall compared to an electric model, but this Champion 7-ton choices is the perfect answer to having gas power for portable work all in a compact design. The powerful 196cc engine runs smoothly and powers through logs with 7 tons of driving force. It has a 20 second reset, and is incredible budget friendly to boot.
The small size makes it easy to take off grid but also store in your garage. The never flat tires and hitch allows you to pull it behind a truck or tractor, or you can load it right into a truck bed with very little overall effort.
Pros
- Very powerful: more than what is claimed
- Great quality and workmanship
- Handles wonderfully
Cons
- Extra parts hard to find
Pro Tip
Small, but powerful, this model is a great compact choice for when you need to work away from a power source but do not want the weight and size of a larger option.
Champion 37-Ton Horizontal/Vertical Full Beam Gas Log Splitter
- Type: Gas Horizontal
- Tonnage: 7
- Max Log Capacity Length: 19 inches
- Warranty: 2 years
With Champions wide range of model options, it’s hard not to showcase another of their models. For more details about what they offer, check out our Champion log splitter reviews. The 37 ton driving force of this full beam splitter is a popular choice for large landowners and log splitting businesses. A powerful 338cc single cylinder, OHV engine powers through logs up to 24 inches long and weighing up to 100 lbs with ease.
The full beam design provides the opportunity to use it in both a horizontal and vertical set-up to save your back on heavy logs. An incredibly fast 16 second reset time keeps you working quickly to power through the largest of jobs. It also tows easily behind trucks and tractors, but is not so big that it doesn’t fit into a truck long bed if needed.
Pros
- Easy to put together
- Incredibly powerful
- Awesome customer service
Cons
- Keep covered when not in use
- Pressure may need adjustment (customer service will help)
Pro Tip
This is the perfect solution for those heavy, dense lods. Designed for heavy wood, this is an excellent solution for when you have to cut green, or have large logs from cleanup areas or large tree removal.
Rugged Made 37-Ton Push Through Gas Log Splitter w/ Log Lift & Catcher
- Type: Gas Horizontal
- Tonnage: 37
- Max Log Capacity Length: 30 inches
- Warranty: 1 year
The Rugged Made brand may not be as well known as some of the above mentioned brands, but they offer a long line of dependable options for homeowners and business owners. Their 37-Ton Push Through Splitter design is unique and considered an excellent alternative to more traditional designs. Offered with either a pull or electric start 389cc engine, this horizontal model uses a 3.5 inch rod and push block to pressure logs up to 24 inches in diameter and 30 inches in length through a 2 or 4 way splitter.
It also is equipped with a catch tray and log lift to save your energy, and has a fast, rapid return stroke. The 12 inch tires and universal hitch makes it easy to transport as well as the trays are easy to remove and store to create a more compact way to keep it put away.
Pros
- Unique, powerful design
- Easy to use
- Helps control where the log is for added stability
Cons
- Requires more than one person for assembly
Pro Tip
If large logs and heavy loads need to be taken care of, this is a great option that provides trays to make your job that much easier. For more information about what they offer check out our Rugged Made log splitter review.
Conclusion
When you need to power through a large load of logs, or have some pretty large wood to cut, a gas splitter is most likely your best option. These are dependable tools that make your job simple and quick to complete. They also are excellent for firewood businesses and last for years of work. Powerful 4-cycle gas engines require general maintenance that is not difficult to take care of, plus they provide the tonnage you need without worrying you may stress a lightweight model.
If you have used any of the above model, we’d love to hear about your experiences. Please let us know if you have any question as well. And, as always, please share!