Did you see his hand on the wood, in the path of the ram, as it was moving?
Also, he's lucky it's not "explosive" wood. Should a split fly off, either after splitting or when it slips off the wedge, he's right in the line of fire!
I learned my lesson on that score at the beginning of last year. Rented a horiz. splitter. Stood / sat near the wood being split to 'guide' it. A big 'ol piece of eukie flew off the wedge and hit below the left knee. I can still sometimes feel the exact spot where it hit. No broken bones or anything, but a nasty bruise and I was on crutches for a week or two and used a cane for a couple of months. These days, I stand BEHIND the splitter, out of the line of fire. Takes a little longer but much safer. Also, I like vertical splitters now for that very reason. I rented a vert. splitter 'bout a month or so ago. Had a couple pieces of gum "explode" as they split and fly in opposit directions, but I was safely behind the splitter, relatively safe from harm.
Peace,
- Sequoia
p.s. Did anyone see the "limb saw" video? It looks like the limbs likey to be cut are mainly forearms!
