How to Buy a Log Splitter

Before buying a log splitter, it’s important to understand how they work, the pros and cons of electric and petrol log splitters, and the differences between model sizes. Having a good grasp of all these aspects lets you make an informed choice.

At Trade Tested, we stock affordable electric and petrol-powered log splitters, designed to help you tackle logs at home or work with ease. Read our complete log splitter buying guide to work out the best product for your needs.

What do you need a log splitter for?

A log splitter doesn’t cut wood, but instead splits it along the grain into smaller pieces. It uses a wedge that slowly rams up against the log, generating enough force to split it in half without the need for manual cutting. Log splitters are handy for preparing firewood, as they’re much more efficient and reduce the physical effort, time, and risk involved compared to using an axe.

How powerful should your log splitter be?

Finding a suitable log splitter starts with knowing the thickness of the logs you intend to cut. If you plan on splitting 200mm diameter branches, a small 6-ton log splitter will be adequate. The force exerted by a log splitter is measured in tonnes, and the greater the tonnage, the wider and harder the logs it can split.

Fresh, green wood is very moist and difficult to cut. As it ages, the moisture inside slowly evaporates, making it more brittle. As a result, older firewood splits and burns much more easily. If you plan on splitting green wood, you’ll need a more powerful splitter.

The chart below is a great guide. Harder woods will require additional force.

Should you choose an electric or petrol-powered log splitter?

Electric log splitters

Most electric log splitters are built for light to medium-duty work, making them ideal for splitting manageable loads of mid-sized logs at home. Before selecting a model, be sure to check its log diameter and weight capacity against the type of timber you’ll be working with. Our electric range handles logs up to 32 cm in diameter, perfect for hassle-free domestic firewood splitting.

We have options starting at 47 kgs, making it possible to transport your splitter from your home to a camping ground or bach. Just remember that you’ll be restricted by the power cord when you’re working with an electric log splitter.

Petrol and diesel log splitters

Generally, petrol log splitters are larger and bulkier than their electric counterparts, but are popular for regular use thanks to their higher power, which makes them capable of handling bigger, tougher logs. At Trade Tested, all of our petrol-powered models come with wheels or towable frames for easy mobility.

Diesel splitters are also worth considering for their greater fuel efficiency and durability. Though they can be harder to start, using a conditioner helps prevent fuel degradation. Choosing between petrol and diesel depends on log size, frequency of use, and ease of operation. If you split wood regularly, or in a commercial setting, a diesel option may be more cost-effective.

Staying safe

Protect yourself with proper safety gear, including goggles, gloves, and proper footwear.

Ensure your log splitter is sitting squarely on level ground.

Do not attempt to cut anything besides wood.

Never operate a splitter in wet, muddy, or icy winter conditions.

For petrol and diesel units, only operate in an open, ventilated area.

Only use your splitter with proper lighting, never at night.

Be careful how you hold the log; never place your hands between the wood and the splitting wedge.

Splitting logs made easy with Trade Tested

Whether you’re leaning towards an electric, petrol or diesel log splitter, we’ve got quality products to tackle any job.

Explore our full log splitter range and order yours online from anywhere in New Zealand. Alternatively, get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team for further help.

Don’t forget to check out more of our equipment designed to make domestic work a breeze, including combo sets and water blasters.

What our customers think

“I've used heaps of hire splitters, but our little 25-tonne splitter would be up with the best of them. Couldn't recommend this highly enough, and can't imagine what a 35 tonne machine will do!”

“An awesome machine that is easy to work with and just seems to split everything that is put on it. Very happy with the purchase.”

“Perfect for the lifestyle block. I have used it heaps. It gets through the logs with ease. Very well made, heavy, sturdy.”

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth buying a log splitter?

Yes, a log splitter is a worthwhile investment if you regularly prepare firewood at home. Log splitters save time, reduce physical effort, and improve safety, all while producing consistently sized, properly split logs that are easier to stack, store, and burn.

What strength log splitter do I need?

The strength of your log splitter should depend on the size, density, and wood type you plan to split, as well as how often you’ll be using it. Electric log splitters typically provide less force and are best suited for smaller, softer logs. Petrol or diesel models offer much higher force, making them suitable for larger, harder logs or frequent, heavy-duty use.

What is a good tonnage for a log splitter?

For electric log splitters, a force of 3–7 tonnes is sufficient for splitting softer or smaller logs. Petrol-powered log splitters typically range from 20–40 tonnes, providing the extra power needed to tackle larger, harder, or denser logs. When picking a log splitter, match its tonnage to the toughest logs you expect to handle to ensure efficient and safe operation.

How to split a log without a log splitter?

To manually split logs, start with a sharp axe for smaller or softer logs, aiming along natural cracks in the wood. For larger, harder, or knotty logs, a splitting maul, sledgehammer with a wedge, or chainsaw can be used to break the wood into manageable pieces. Manual splitting is labour-intensive and requires strict safety precautions: work on a flat, stable surface, keep the area clear of obstacles, and wear protective gear.

Which is better, a vertical or a horizontal log splitter?

Horizontal splitters are ideal for quick, easy work on small to medium logs, letting you load and split with minimal strain. For taller, heavier, or uniquely shaped logs, vertical splitters give you the leverage you need while keeping your back safe. Dual-mode splitters easily switch between horizontal and vertical settings, providing ultimate flexibility and efficiency for any job. Trade Tested offers dual-mode petrol splitters so that you can work efficiently with the best of both worlds.