What Size Log Splitter Do You Need? Tons by Wood and Diameter
What size log splitter do you need: how tonnage depends on species, diameter and dryness, with WEN's and YARDMAX's worked examples and picks by size.
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Size the splitter to your hardest, widest, greenest round. WEN's worked example puts a 14 inch ash round at 26 tons or more; YARDMAX says 24 to 36 inch oak takes 35 tons and freshly felled wood can add 10 tons or so. Seasoned softwood and small rounds split on 6.5 to 14 ton electrics.
What drives tonnage
| Factor | Effect | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Species hardness | Harder wood needs more force (WEN uses the Janka scale; ash is about 1,320 lb) | WEN |
| Diameter | Wider rounds need more | WEN, YARDMAX |
| Dryness | Dry, older wood splits more easily; green wood can need 10 tons more | WEN, YARDMAX |
| Knots and grain | Twisted, knotty wood resists | General |
Rough guide from the makers' examples
| Wood | Splitter |
|---|---|
| Seasoned softwood, under 10 in | 6.5 to 7 ton electric |
| Seasoned hardwood to 16 in | 14 ton electric or 20 ton gas |
| 14 in ash (WEN's example) | 26 tons or more |
| 24 to 36 in oak (YARDMAX) | 35 tons |
Gas splitters run 20 to 40 tons, WEN says. Picks by size: electric, gas, all types. Comparison: electric vs gas.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 20 ton log splitter enough?
For most seasoned rounds up to about a foot; WEN's 14 inch ash example calls for 26 tons.
How many tons to split oak?
YARDMAX says 24 to 36 inch oak needs a 35 ton splitter. Smaller seasoned oak rounds split with far less force.
Does green wood need a bigger splitter?
Yes; YARDMAX says freshly felled logs may need 10 tons or so more.
What size log splitter for home use?
For a few cords of seasoned wood, 6.5 to 14 ton electric; for big hardwood, 25 tons or more gas.
Can you split a log too big for the splitter?
Halve it with a maul or saw first; forcing it can stall or damage the splitter.
Sources
- How to Choose a Log Splitter, WEN Products
- How to Split Wood - Log Splitter Buying Information Guide, YARDMAX
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