Asking you all for input for selecting a log splitter:
So I have both an FPX 44 that takes up to 32" logs AND a Hearthstone Tribute which takes no more than 16". I've decided to rather standardize on 24" logs which allows me to just cut in half when needed for the Tribute.
As you guys are aware that little bity stove needs really small splits and no more than 12" cuts (and even smaller is better for N/S loading).
The primary species is Oak around here, and the trees tend to be large - 24" is not uncommon at all, and usually bigger.
So I've rather decided that perhaps the famed and loved 22 ton Huskey may not be enough. I also project that I will split mostly green wood which ups the tonnage as my research indicates.
I like the idea of the 4 way splitter attachment to speed up the process along with horizontal/veritical to handle the larger logs. Ariens doesn't have one of those so rather a minus I think.
My concern is that if I get a large splitter (say, the Aries 30+ ton unit) will it be unwieldy for the smaller pieces? I'd like a work table for the smaller pieces and be able to have the unit horizonal as well.
Ideally, I'd rather not spend much more than $2k for a unit. I'm ok with spending a bit more in order to not be PO'd with results. I've used a horizontal only unit that's small from my buddy, and while I can't beat the price I'd rather have my own that doesn't frustrate me and take forever for the larger splits.
I'm rather liking the great northern units, but since I'm in Arkansas I'd have to have it shipped down here. Lowes, HomeDepot are my likely sources, haven't had time to seek out other local supplies for log splitters.
Thoughts? If I get a large unit will I just wind up getting a smaller unit to handle the Tribute logs anyway?? I'd like to avoid that if I can.
So I have both an FPX 44 that takes up to 32" logs AND a Hearthstone Tribute which takes no more than 16". I've decided to rather standardize on 24" logs which allows me to just cut in half when needed for the Tribute.
As you guys are aware that little bity stove needs really small splits and no more than 12" cuts (and even smaller is better for N/S loading).
The primary species is Oak around here, and the trees tend to be large - 24" is not uncommon at all, and usually bigger.
So I've rather decided that perhaps the famed and loved 22 ton Huskey may not be enough. I also project that I will split mostly green wood which ups the tonnage as my research indicates.
I like the idea of the 4 way splitter attachment to speed up the process along with horizontal/veritical to handle the larger logs. Ariens doesn't have one of those so rather a minus I think.
My concern is that if I get a large splitter (say, the Aries 30+ ton unit) will it be unwieldy for the smaller pieces? I'd like a work table for the smaller pieces and be able to have the unit horizonal as well.
Ideally, I'd rather not spend much more than $2k for a unit. I'm ok with spending a bit more in order to not be PO'd with results. I've used a horizontal only unit that's small from my buddy, and while I can't beat the price I'd rather have my own that doesn't frustrate me and take forever for the larger splits.
I'm rather liking the great northern units, but since I'm in Arkansas I'd have to have it shipped down here. Lowes, HomeDepot are my likely sources, haven't had time to seek out other local supplies for log splitters.
Thoughts? If I get a large unit will I just wind up getting a smaller unit to handle the Tribute logs anyway?? I'd like to avoid that if I can.
!
Actually saw one at a local dealer and they do look pretty sweet. 
