Ultimate Guide to Buy a Log Splitter (Australia)

A log splitter is the best tool for efficiently processing wood, with a range of power choices, depending on your particular requirements. You could be a homeowner wanting to stockpile firewood for winter, or a farmer that has to manage your timber. Log splitters are also commonly used by professional landscapers and in the forestry industry. These are indispensable tools that save a huge amount of effort and time.

Finding the best wood splitter in Australia for your purposes requires a certain amount of knowledge, and our guide will help you to make an informed decision. JAK Max offers log splitters of the highest quality, purpose-designed for Australian conditions. We’ll help ensure you get the kind of performance and utility you need.

What Is a Log Splitter Used For?

A log splitter is exactly what the name implies. It’s a piece of equipment meant to break logs into smaller pieces, so that they can be used for whatever purpose they’re required. It’s very commonly used to split larger logs down into firewood for home fireplaces, wood-burning stoves or outdoor barbecues. 

Landscapers typically use log splitters in the process of removing trees when remodelling gardens, while farmers rely on them to clear their land and deal with fallen trees. Professional-level wood splitters are used for large-scale timber processing. 

There are several types of log splitters, powered by petrol, electricity or hydraulics. You can also find manual splitters, but they require quite intense physical effort, which defeats the object somewhat. Hydraulic log splitters are usually the most popular choice, as they are more powerful and efficient, especially for heavy-duty tasks.

What Size Log Splitter Do I Need in Australia

Choosing the right size of log splitter mainly depends on the kind of wood you’re dealing with and the size of the log. Also consider how often you’ll be using it. As for the wood, hardwood species like ironbark and eucalyptus need more impetus to split than softer woods like pine. Log splitter power is measured in tonnage, which is effectively the amount of force it exerts on the wood.

Here’s a quick rule-of-thumb size guide:

With our tough Australian hardwood, we recommend a 30 tonne log splitter for anyone who needs to work through large amounts of it. The JAK Max range includes high-performance models to make sure that the job gets done as quickly and efficiently as possible.

How to Choose a Hydraulic Log Splitter

When it comes to mixing power with efficiency, you can’t beat hydraulic log splitters. They’re definitely the best choice for splitting hardwood and are ideal for landscapers, farmers and professional timber processors. They’ll also make short work of domestic tasks.

Keep the following in mind when choosing a hydraulic log splitter:

• Tonnage: Tonnage determines splitting power, so the harder the wood or the larger the logs, the more tonnage you need.
• Orientation: For working with smaller logs, a horizontal log splitter is usually all that’s required, as the logs will be small enough to lift onto the cradle. For larger, heavier logs, a vertical splitter is better, as you don’t have to lift them onto the machine.
• Portability: If you need to move the log splitter around a large property like a farm, you can get models that have wheels and tow bars.
• Cycle Time: This is the time it takes for the splitter to make a single splitting motion, from full ram extension to retraction. It determines how quickly you can work. Homeowners will typically need a cycle time of 15-20 seconds, while professionals can get log splitters with cycle times of 10-15 seconds for faster processing of higher volumes.

JAK Max offers some of the most trusted hydraulic log splitters in Australia to meet the needs of both homeowners and professionals. We can advise you on the log splitter that’s most suitable for your requirements.

Best Rated Log Splitters

When it comes to the top-rated wood splitters, our many years of experience have shown that Archer Axe log splitters stand out from the rest. They are extremely durable and efficient to use. They’re also the ideal splitters to take on Australian hardwoods.
The JAK Max range includes reliable splitters for different types of uses:

• Archer Axe 22T – an ideal smaller firewood splitter for homeowners.
• Archer Axe 30T – a powerful 30-tonne log splitter for farmers and professional users such as landscapers.
• Archer Axe 40T – the ultimate heavy-duty commercial model, providing unparalleled performance.

Buy a Log Splitter in Australia

If you’ve decided you need to buy a log splitter, you can choose a new one or get a second-hand model. The latter is riskier, as you won’t be able to detect any hidden mechanical issues. This can lead to costly repairs down the line.
The big benefit of getting a new log splitter from JAK Max is that you’ll have the peace of mind of a warranty and the knowledge that you have a brand new machine with a full life span ahead. Our after-sales service experts will help you get the most out of your new equipment. You can find JAK Max dealers in plenty of accessible locations all across Australia.

Log Splitter Maintenance Tips

To keep your equipment in good condition, preserve its proficiency and extract the most longevity, regular log splitter maintenance is essential. Fortunately, it doesn’t require much effort:

• Inspect the hydraulic fluid level and top it up to make sure your splitter produces optimal power.
• Clean debris off the splitter after each use.
• Check that the wedge remains sharp and hasn’t taken damage.’
• Regularly lubricate all moving points with the proper oil to prevent unnecessary wear.

Best Oil for Log Splitters & Hydraulic Fluid Guide

It’s important to use the best oil for log splitters you can find to ensure smooth performance and reduce mechanical wear and tear. Your owner’s manual will contain the oil specifications for your model. If yours is hydraulic, you’ll also need hydraulic fluid for log splitters. It’s essential to regularly check and replace your hydraulic fluid to prevent equipment failure or accidents.

How to Use a Hydraulic Log Splitter Safely

Hydraulic log splitters pack a lot of power, so it’s important to know how to use them properly to avoid injuring yourself. Thankfully, using this kind of log splitter safely only means following a few basic guide rails:

1. Always use the right clothing and safety accessories. Wear sturdy outdoor clothes, safety gloves, eye protection and robust boots.
2. If you have a horizontal log splitter, make sure to place the log securely in the cradle. If yours is a vertical one, ensure that it is properly stabilised over the log.
3. Turn on the hydraulic system to activate the wedge, and then keep your hands and feet well away from the splitter as it works.
4. Once you’ve finished, clean the log splitter and put it away in a safe, dry place.

Extra Tips: Don’t use your log splitter on unstable ground, and don’t overload it when you’re adding logs.

FAQS

Which is better: petrol or electric log splitter?

Petrol log splitters are more powerful and ideal for heavy-duty use on tough Australian hardwoods, while electric log splitters are quieter, lighter, and suited to smaller logs or residential jobs. If you’re splitting large volumes of red gum or ironbark, a petrol model is usually the better choice.

Do I need a vertical or horizontal log splitter?

Horizontal log splitters are best for smaller, lighter logs you can easily lift, making them perfect for homeowners. Vertical log splitters handle large, heavy logs without lifting and are the go-to choice for farmers, landscapers, and professionals working with bulk timber.

What size log splitter is best for Australian hardwood?

Hardwoods like eucalyptus, red gum, and ironbark require more splitting force. For logs over 30 cm in diameter, a 30-tonne log splitter is recommended, while very large or commercial jobs may need a 40-tonne splitter. Smaller logs or softwoods can be managed with a 20-tonne model.

Can one person operate a log splitter safely?

Yes, most log splitters are designed for safe one-person operation, provided you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Always set the splitter on level ground, secure the log properly, and keep hands and feet clear of the wedge.

What protective gear should I wear when using a log splitter?

Essential safety gear includes heavy-duty gloves, steel-capped boots, safety glasses, and fitted outdoor clothing. Hearing protection is also recommended when using petrol-powered splitters.

Can a log splitter be used on wet or green wood?

Yes, log splitters can split green or freshly cut logs, but the wood may not burn as efficiently until it’s seasoned. Green hardwoods can also require more power, so a higher-tonnage splitter may be needed.

How often should I change hydraulic oil in my log splitter?

Hydraulic oil should generally be changed after the first 50 hours of use, and then every 100–150 hours of operation or once a year. Always check your owner’s manual for exact service intervals.

What hydraulic fluid is best for log splitters in Australia’s climate?

A premium-grade hydraulic fluid with anti-wear protection is recommended. In hotter Australian conditions, choose a fluid with a higher viscosity (like ISO 46), while in cooler climates ISO 32 may be better for smoother starts. Read more

How do I sharpen or replace the wedge on a log splitter?

To sharpen a wedge, use a metal file or angle grinder to restore the edge. If the wedge is cracked or excessively worn, it’s safer to replace it with a manufacturer-approved part. Keeping the wedge sharp improves efficiency and reduces strain on the machine.

Conclusion & Final Recommendations

A log splitter is the ideal tool for anyone who needs to process wood efficiently for a variety of purposes. This could be homeowners splitting firewood, farmers clearing land, or professional landscapers or foresters. When you buy a log splitter, choosing the right type depends on the size of the logs you’re dealing with, the kind of wood, and how much you’ll use it.

The most efficient log splitters are hydraulic. They range in power from 5 to 40 tonnes, giving them the ability to deal with very large pieces of timber. JAK Max recommends the Archer Axe range, which is especially good at splitting Australian hardwoods. It’s important to maintain your splitter but it’s also quick and easy to do so. Lastly, always follow the proper safety procedures.

For expert advice and the highest quality log splitters, contact JAK Max. We’re committed to providing Australians with equipment that offers top performance, durability and value for money. Whether you’re a homeowner, a professional landscaper or a farmer, we have the right log splitter for you. We can also supply top-of-the-range wood splitters to the timber industry.

Have any tips for using log splitters more efficiently? Leave a comment and share them with our community.