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Best 5-Ton Log Splitters

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“If one has cut, split, hauled, and piled his own good oak, and let his mind work the while, he will remember much about where the heat comes from, and a wealth of detail denied to those who spend the weekend in town astride a radiator.” — Aldo Leopold

 

Not sure what Aldo would think of using a 5-ton log splitter. But, the man did have a point. It’s true that nothing quite compares to the warm and homely glow of a fireplace as the cold winds of winter blow outside. However, many people simply do not have the time of carrying out the long and arduous work of having to chop wood. To keep the spirit of old Aldo alive, luckily we have log splitters that take some of the strain of having to chop and split logs for the winter. While there are many options when it comes to log splitters available in the market, here we are going to review only a few that are worth investing in.

All of the 5-ton log splitters mentioned here come with their share of pros and cons, which you should take into consideration when selecting a powerful and reliable 5-ton log splitter

Is a 5-Ton Log Splitter Big Enough?

This is a valid question that is seldom asked by those who are thinking about buying a log splitter. The large log splitters that are gas powered normally range between 25 to 35 tons. But, not everybody needs such big machines, especially if they don’t have much wood to split, which would mean their investment in a 25 or 35-ton log splitter was nothing more than a waste of money. In these situations, a more suitable option would be going with a 5-ton log splitter. But, then again, the real question will be the type and the size of the wood you want to split, which will ultimately determine the size of the log splitter you should purchase.

For most homeowners looking to prepare firewood for winter, the electric powered log splitter is a more affordable and convenient option as compared to the larger gas-powered log splitters. Apart from that, electric powered log splitters do not produce the extremely loud and unbearable sound as the larger, more powerful, gas-powered log splitters that are used to split harder wood types on a much larger scale. When it comes to the 5-ton, electric powered log splitters, they don’t produce much sound and don’t require the same amount of maintenance as the large, gas-powered models.

A log splitter uses a hydraulic ram which it uses to force a wedge into the log that needs to be split. The force in which the ram is pressed against the log is measured in tons, hence the name ‘5-ton’ or ’35-ton’ log splitters. This is used to find out the amount of weight pressing down on the wedge if it were in a vertical position. Although, many log splitters are operated in a horizontal position, some can also be operated either horizontally or vertically, depending on your personal preference and what you feel is easier while splitting wood.

However, the position in which the log splitter is used really does not make much of a difference, since the hydraulic ram will still be pressing down on the wood with a gravitational force equivalent of 5 tons. The only difference being that the log splitter produces this amount of force using hydraulic pressure. When you consider the power of a log splitter, a 5-ton axe of 35-ton axe would be out of the question and simply impractical to even think of. On the other hand, log splitters are able to deliver the same amount of pressure necessary to split wood, making the act of chopping wood more convenient and less of a chore.

Type of Wood for the 5-Ton Log Splitter

While it is not determined exactly how much tons of pressure is needed to split a particular kind of wood, a 5-ton log splitter will do fine when splitting dry and soft wood, not more than 10 inches in diameter, while harder wood types will require more pressure, which could be as much as three times more than what is required for splitting soft wood.

The amount of moisture also plays a big role in the processing of splitting wood. Normally, it is recommended to leave logs which are to be used for the fireplace to cure for about a year before it can be used to burn. The same also goes for splitting logs with less power. Those logs that have been left to dry properly for a while will be more brittle and thus, split easily. That said, splitting wood up to 6” thick is possible when splitting pine or similar wood. Another factor that is to be considered is whether or not the logs have any knots on them, which has a direct effect on its ability to split. Oak, being a hard wood, can split easily up to 4” and you may be lucky if you are able to get through logs that are 6” thick. Going any thicker is not recommended with a 5-ton log splitter. This is also assuming that the logs have been dried properly before splitting.

One of the major factors when it comes to the length of wood which can be split is the length of the table, which is normally around 20” in length. While the 5-to log splitter will not provide you with the power necessary to split hardwood, or large amounts of wood, it is able to fulfill its requirements for most households since it’s a reasonable size. The wood that’s been split will also burn better and give you more control over the fire once the cold winds blow.

The final factor that needs to be taken into consideration is the price. This too, depends on the type of wood, and the amount of wood that you will be splitting. While a large amount of harder wood will require a large, gas-powered log splitter, the 5-ton log splitter will do nicely when it comes to splitting soft wood in smaller quantity. A good 5-ton log splitter will cost you around $250 to $500, and will be worth the investment in the long run.

Best 5-Ton Log Splitters

If you’re in the market for a 5-ton log splitter, then the price and the amount of logs that you will need to split should be considered. By putting in a little bit of effort, you should be able to reach a conclusion on the perfect log splitter for your needs. At the end of the day, a log splitter is way more efficient than having to do it the old-fashioned way, that is, with an axe. The 5-ton log splitters mentioned here should get you an idea of the kind of log splitter you should go for when purchasing a 5-ton log splitter.

Sun Joe LJ602E

Features:

  • Motor: 15 AMP
  • Maximum splitting force: 5 ton, maximum log size: 10″ x 20.5″ logs, maximum log length: 20.5″ and maximum log diameter: 10″
  • Weighs 92.6 pounds
  • Comfort grip handle and easy portability: 6″ wheels
  • Dual handed safety switch system
  • Cycle time: 20 sec
  • ETL approved with 2-year warranty

Sun Joe LJ602E – Overview

The Sun Joe LJ602E is considered to be the cheapest option in the 5-ton range of log splitters. The reasonable price tag of the Sun Joe LJ602E makes it an excellent choice for a good quality log splitter that’s powerful and reasonably priced. While this log splitter is only recommended for light duty work, it offers great value for money because of its high-efficiency, low maintenance and affordability.

Sturdy and Durable Build

One look at the Sun Joe LJ602E is enough to know that this log splitter has been designed to last. Built from high quality materials, the Sun Joe LJ602E delivers a lot of log splitting force, while its sturdy build and robust components makes sure everything stays in place.

Power Hydraulics

The Sun Joe LJ602E features a 1-gallong hydraulic capacity, which is more than enough when you need to go through 6” logs. The powerful 15A motor and 5 tons of splitting force makes quick work of splitting soft wood. According to Sun Joe, the LJ602E log splitter can split logs ranging in 10” in diameter and lengths of 20.5” with relative ease.

Ideal Height and Useful Safety Features

The Sun Joe LJ602E is the ideal height, even for tall guys. Weighing at 97 lbs., the Sun Joe LJ602E is also surprisingly lightweight, and the two large wheels make it easy to move around and store away once you’re done. The Sun Joe LJ602E also has smart safety feature that requires the operator to use both hands while using the log splitter. This means holding on the ‘Run’ button while you feed it the wood. This is a smart feature to have in a log splitter since it avoids any unfortunate accidents. There’s also an overload reset button that protects the motor of the Sun Joe LJ602E. In the end, this is an extremely easy log splitter to have and operate. It’s affordable, takes up less space, and offers a good amount of splitting power, and it also comes along with a 2-year warranty that sweetens the deal.

Boss Industrial EC5T20

Features:

  • Durable 1.8 HP Electric motor
  • One handed operation,
  • Automatic ram return.
  • Lightweight and portable
  • 2-year residential,
  • 180-day commercial warranty

Boss Industrial EC5T20 — Overview

If you want a durable and reliable log splitter, then the Boss Industrial EC5T20 is one of your best options. This log splitter has much to offer in terms of power and design. From the inclusion of the sturdy and supportive stand to the robust, steel-rimmed wheels, everything about the Boss Industrial EC5T20 shouts high quality and durability. At first glance, this log splitter seems to beat the other log splitters by a mile, but then again, this can’t be said for sure since it would take years to try out all the log splitters to find out which one is truly the best.

Powerful Electric Motor with Lots of Cutting Force

The Boss Industrial EC5T20 has a powerful 1.8 HP electric motor that is up for the task of splitting wood. Although, the 5-ton log splitter does not have the same two-had safety feature as the previous version, using one hand is just as good and is certainly not going to be a deal breaker for those in search of a 5-ton log splitter.

2-Year Warranty

The Boss Industrial EC5T20 comes with the 2-year warranty, which is good enough considering many log splitters don’t provide warranties that are as long. Apart from that, you also get a 180-day commercial warranty, which is a neat addition since the log splitter does have ‘Industrial” in its name. The high level of quality and amount of time that has clearly been taken to design this unit doesn’t make it likely that you are going to need the warranty any time soon. Still, it’s nice to have!

YARDMAX YS0552

Features:

  • Powerful, 5-ton RAM force to get the job done fast
  • Stand, log tray and stroke limiter included
  • Stand ensures a stable work surface — no squatting or bending over to operate
  • Log tray ensures split logs lay safely rather than falling to the ground
  • Stroke limiter will shorten the amount of time it takes to split shorter logs
  • Two-handed operation puts operator safety first
  • 6″ wheel diameter and lightweight design
  • Portable and can be operated indoors in the winter
  • Log capacity — 20.5″ in length and 10″ in diameter
  • Short cylinder cycle time — 16 seconds
  • None or minimal assembly required
  • No assembly required for bench top unit — simply clip on the wheels and start splitting
  • Minimal assembly required for stand option

YARDMAX YS0552 — Overview

Yardmax yard tools have always been right up there in terms of quality and affordability. A must-have for many homeowners, the YARDMAX YS0552, 5-ton log splitter offers just the right balance between quality and power, making it perfect for the DIY homeowner. While this unit is going to cost you a bit more in comparison to the previous two log splitters, it offers so much more in terms of value for money in the long run.

Sturdy Build and Durable Stand

The YARDMAX YS0552 offers the very best in build quality which is apparent from its robust build and design, which promotes efficiency while splitting wood. The extended iron stand makes for a comfortable working height, that doesn’t strain your back. You can also remove the extension legs if you want to work at a lower height. And that’s not all, the YARDMAX YS0552 also allows you to adjust the cylinder stroke. If you’re splitting logs that are short in length, you can set the ram so that it returns sooner, reducing the cycle time of working the YS0552.

Two-hand Operation for Added Safety

The YARDMAX YS0552 features a two-hand safety feature which we are seeing more and more in log splitters. This minimizes the chances of any fatal accidents while using the splitter. The YARDMAX YS0552 also has a hydraulic capacity of 0.93 gallons. It weighs around 108lbs, and the 10” wheels on the YARDMAX YS0552 make it easier to move around the yard.

Ending Note

If you are in the market for a reliable log splitter, then these three brands are extremely well made and will offer you the best value for your money. These 5-ton log splitters also come with warranties that will give you peace of mind if needed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best Wood Chipper Options (Gas-Powered) for Home Owners

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Do you own a property that has its own forest (cool!)? Do you have a house that is surrounded by trees that ends up littering your garden and backyard with dead leaves? If the answer is ‘yes’, then you will need to wood chipper, which is an essential gardening tool. If you have a large garden with logs of trees that are in constant need of pruning then a reliable wood chipper is just the thing you need as part of your garden tool arsenal.

Normally, it is common for homeowners to just leave the cut branches and shrubs as wildlife habitat, but for typical homeowners, a powerful, gas-powered wood chipper is the best way to turn those fallen branches into little moisture trapping scraps that will stop weed growth in your lawn. We combed the internet to find the best options as far as gas-powered wood chippers for homeowners go and this is what we found. So, check ’em out if you feel so inclined.

Why Go for a Gas-Powered Wood Chipper?

There’s a reason why gas-powered wood chippers are the preferred option by homeowners who want to get both power and efficiency with their wood chipper. The high out-put of the gas-powered wood chipper means that you are more likely to go through lots of yard waste in the first go, and a lot quicker as compared to other wood chippers.

Another advantage of getting a gas-powered wood chipper is that it makes light work of the larger sized branches, which will be much harder to go through if you’re not using a gas-powered wood chipper. While a good quality gas-powered wood chipper will put a dent in your pocket, choosing the right one means that you can get years out of the yard tool before it breaks down and needs repair. Besides, the large amount of compost that you will be able to create with the gas-powered wood chipper will make the investment worth your while.

For those who are looking out for the best gas-powered wood chippers available on the market, here you are going to find all the information you need on the best premium quality wood chippers that are powered by gas and make the ideal option for homeowners.

Things to Consider While Choosing a Wood Chipper

There are quite a few factors that you will need to consider before you buy a gas-powered wood chipper. The first factor is undoubtedly going to be the price of the yard tool. Affordability remains to be the main concern of homeowners when it comes to purchasing a wood chipper for their home. While the price will vary according to the model of the gas-powered wood chipper and its power and efficiency, knowing all your options will enable you to make a more informed decision when the time comes to decide on a gas-powered wood chipper which will be perfect for your needs. The second factor that plays a big part in the purchase decision is the quality of wood chipper.

Since quality is the key to buying yourself a wood chipper that ticks all the boxes of an efficient machine, we emphasis on selecting a gas-powered wood chipper that can take care of your needs, and not get carried away by the many fancy options that are available in the market. There’s no point in spending your hard-earned money on getting a wood chipper that you will not be using a lot, neither will it be smart to choose a wood chipper that’s very powerful, which will obviously cost you more, if your yard doesn’t require much wood chipping. Here, we have put together a list of only the best quality gas-powered wood chippers that can be used by homeowners so that you are able to get the value you need at an affordable cost.

YARDMAX YW7565

Features:

  • Durable and easy-to-use
  • Can handle branches up to 3″ in diameter
  • Spacious, self-feeding chute designed to handle longer branches with ease
  • Solid steel casings provide the durable parts necessary to handle rugged jobs, time and again
  • Simple maintenance through easily accessible chipper blades
  • Pneumatic wheels offer convenient mobility across any terrain
  • Briggs & Stratton Engine —  208cc
  • Torque: 9.50 (ft./lbs., gross)
  • EPA/CARB Approved
  • 3″ diameter Chipping Capacity
  • 2 Steel Chipper Blades
  • Reduction Rate: 10:1
  • 21″ x 14″ hopper opening with adjustable discharge chute
  • Pneumatic 10″ x 4″ Tires
  • Oil: 18oz SAE 10W 30
  • Fuel Capacity: 3.25 qts.
  • Weight: 200 lbs.
  • Warranty 2-Year Residential; 90-Day Commercial

YARDMAX YW7565 — Overview

Don’t let the size fool you, the YARDMAX YW7565 is the cheapest of gas-powered wood chippers out there. This model offers you with a good amount of power and efficiency, making it a good deal. YARDMAX has always been the brand of choice when comes to efficient and affordable yard tools, and the YW7565 is no exception. This wood chipper is not only affordable, but also durable and easy to use. One glance at the YARDMAX YW7565 is enough to tell you that this machine means business and is going to make easy work of large barks and twigs. The YARDMAX YW7565 features a sturdy steel tubing stand for the hopper and the chute, so it remains fixed on the ground while you’re chipping the wood. With large pneumatic wheels, the YW7565 is easy to move around the yard as you go about your business. The durable wheels also means that you can easily take the YARDMAX YW7565 through rough terrain with relative ease.

Wide, Durable Hopper to Easily Feed in the Timber

The YARDMAX YW7565 features a hopper that has a large opening of 21” x 14x, meaning that you can easily feed garden debris through the chipper without any hassle. The branches can be shred to 3” in diameter and there’s also a chute that can be used to feed the smaller twigs as well. The YARDMAX YW7565 offers loads of power so debris can easily be shredded to a 10:1 ratio and discharged from the chute, ready for composting.

Power, Fuel Efficient Motor

Another reason why the YARDMAX YW7565 is the ideal choice for homeowners in need of a reliable wood chipper is because it has a powerful 208cc, OHV 6.5 HP engine that has the power to deliver up to 9.5 ft. LBS of torque, making it an incredibly efficient machine. The engine of the YARDMAX YW7565 is not only a perfect fit for wood chipping, but is also fuel efficient along with being certified by the EPA and the CARB. So, there’s no worrying about the emissions and the environment with the YARDMAX YW7565.

Large Gas Tank for More Fuel Storage

The YARDMAX YW7565 also features a large gas tank that is enough to hold up to 3.25 quarts of fuel so you can work for a while before needing to refill the tank. Although the YARDMAX YW7565 is a heavy piece of machinery, that is testament to its sturdy and durable build which makes it one of the best choices for wood chippers. And as if that wasn’t enough, the YARDMAX YW7565 also comes along with a cool 2-year warranty for residential use and a 90-day warranty if the YW7565 is being used commercially.

Tazz K32 Chipper/Shredder

Features:

  • 212cc Viper engine
  • 4″ wide by 29.9″ long, it takes up minimal room
  • Sturdy 11″ wheels
  • Rugged easy-to-use debris bag featuring the Bottom-Out zipper and a quick Dock-and-Lock bag connector
  • Power through 3” diameter branches + leaves and twigs
  • Easy-to-use Debris Bag
  • Grinding chamber the triand j-hammers will reduce material 20:1
  • Vacuum kit (optional) featuring a unique air gate and largest-in-class rotor
  • 5-year warranty

Tazz K32 Chipper/Shredder — Overview

Those who have no qualms paying a bit more can get their hands on the Tazz K32 Chipper/Shredder. This wood chipper features a larger engine than the YARDMAX YW7565. This means more power and torque for chipping large barks of wood and smaller twigs in your yard. Surprisingly, the Tazz K32 is lighter than the YW7465, which also makes it easier to move around the yard.

Powerful Engine

The Tazz K32 has a powerful 212cc Viper engine that is considered to be one of the most durable 4-stroke, gas-powered engines out there as far as wood chippers go. This fact alone, means that the Tazz K32 has been designed for homeowners with large houses and larger gardens and the need to chip more wood. The powerful engine on the Tazz K32 means that it has been built to take the hassle out of wood chipping in large gardens and yards that homeowners with large yards usually have to deal with. The powerful Viper engine can churn out up to 8.86 ft. LBS of torque, which strangely enough is a wee bit less than the YARDMAX YW7565, though this is certainly not going to be a deal breaker for home owners, especially because of the durable build and the high-quality engine and numerous features of the Tazz K32.

A Powerful Wood Chipper and Shredder

The Tazz K32 kills two birds with one stone being a wood chipper and a wood shredder as well. Thanks to the durable 2 X J-hammers, 2 X tri-hammers and 2 blades, the Tazz K32 is up for the task of shredding, with an impressive shredding ratio of 20:1. Don’t think Tazz hasn’t thought of what you’re going to do with all the debris, because the Tazz K32 comes with a large, durable collection bag that solves the problem of the huge mess that often collects after your done chipping the wood in your yard. The easy grip handles makes it easy to carry and the robust zipper keeps its content intact, which makes for an easy cleanup once you’re done.

Other Features Make This a Winner

The Tazz K32 also includes other amazing features such as the tow bar and vacuum kit, which makes the process of chipping easy. With a weight of around just 121 lbs., the Tazz K32 is an impressive piece of machinery, especially when you factor in the durable steel build and the large steel rimmed 11” all rubber wheels. The handle of the Tazz K32 has also been designed keeping the user in mind and has been positioned perfectly, and so is the hopper design.

Durable Design and Great Performance

What sets the Tazz K32 apart from other wood chippers is that it is a perfectly thought out wood chipper that also happens to be a shredder, that also happens to be gas-powered so you can rest assured that you are going to get the power you need when it comes to chipping wood. The Tazz K32 is at a height of 5.1” so it is easily accessible, meaning you won’t have to lift the barks too high to get it in this chipper. As if the durable coating on the hopper and it’s easy to use design wasn’t enough the Tazz K32 also comes with an incredible 5-year warranty that’s practically unheard of in wood chippers, and is testament of the confidence that the manufacturer has on the quality of their product.

Champion Power Equipment 100137

Features:

  • Heavy-duty 338cc Champion single-cylinder OHV engine with a 1.6-gallon fuel tank and 1.2-quart oil capacity provides the power for fast, heavy-duty and hassle-free chipping and shredding
  • The chipper chute is equipped with hardened steel blades and handles branches up to 3 inches in diameter
  • The shredder chute makes fast work of shrubbery, leaves or yard debris up to ½ inch or less in diameter
  • Never flat tires, integrated handle and vertical design allow for easy maneuverability and storage, plus the included 2-bushel collection bag makes yard cleanup a cinch
  • Includes 2-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support from dedicated experts

Champion Power Equipment 100137

The Champion Power Equipment 100137 comes in at third place for those who want even more power and have an arm and a leg to spare. The first major difference in the Champion Power Equipment 100137 is its large engine, that’s significantly larger than the two previous contenders in our list. The Champion Power Equipment 100137 boasts of a 338cc, 4-stroke engine that has a large gas tank of 1.6 gallons. The brand that specializes in yard equipment has left no stone unturned in providing customers with the best value for money with the Champion Power Equipment 100137. This impressive machine is made from hardened steel for extra durability, and large 13.8” blades along with four robust hammers. This kind of power means that the Champion Power Equipment 100137 can reduce debris to as small as ½ inch or less. The wide hopper stands tall at 49.4” which makes it just about the right size for a wood chipper. A conveniently placed intake can swallow branches of up to 3” in diameter and make quick work of the rest.

Sturdy Debris Collection Bag

With the Champion Power Equipment 100137 there’s no need to worry about what’s left behind since it has a sturdy debris collection bag which can collect up to two bushels, which is more than enough space for a large yard. The Champion Power Equipment 100137 is a perfect example of yard machinery that’s been refined to fit the needs of homeowners with large yards. The Champion Power Equipment 100137comes along with a 2-year warranty, but we doubt you’ll be needing it by the durable, steel design that looks indestructible.

Ending Note

So, there you have it. These were our top picks for the best gas-powered wood chippers that home owners can buy on a budget. Of course, it’s always best to do your homework and find a wood chipper that’s neither too large nor too small for your needs. Also, these are powerful machines nonetheless, and require extra care when it comes to operating them safely. Don’t forget to read the manual after you purchase the machine and take all the necessary safety precautions to stay safe when working with a wood chipper in the yard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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