Max. log length
The longest log that a log splitter can handle. In fact, this is the largest distance that the stop and working nozzle can be spread; if the workpiece is longer than this distance, it will have to be sawn.
Note that this indicator significantly affects the dimensions (especially in a horizontal working position), and the force required to split a long log is quite high. Therefore, for small volumes of work (for example, when harvesting firewood for a private house), a wood splitter with a relatively small maximum length is often the best choice —
up to 60 cm ; longer workpieces can be sawn. But models of
more than 60 cm are intended mainly for work on a large scale.
Max. log diameter
The largest log diameter that a log splitter can handle.
This parameter depends both on the size of the working nozzle and the “seat” for the workpiece, and on the splitting force. Usually, it is indicated per log of maximum length (see above). However, this does not mean that with a shorter length of the workpiece, it can be thicker than stated in the specifications — anyway, it is not recommended to work with too thick logs, i.e. the tool may experience undesirable loads. As for specific values, the maximum thickness
of up to 30 cm is typical for wood splitters mainly for domestic purposes,
more than 30 cm for powerful professional units.
Oil volume (hydraulic system)
The total amount of oil that can fit into the hydraulic system of the respective log splitter (see "Type"). This parameter allows you to estimate how much oil is required for one refueling or refilling of the unit.
4-way splitter
The presence in the delivery set of the wood splitter of the
nozzle for splitting the workpiece into 4 parts. Such a nozzle usually has a set of blades in the form of a cross and, if necessary, is installed on the main working tool. "Cross" allows you to get log quarters in one pass (whereas without it it would take three — to split into halves and for each individual half). However for very thin or thick workpieces, such splitting is poorly suited — the centre of the log may not coincide with the centre of the nozzle.
Max. power
Wood splitter motor power in watts. The designation in watts is used for all types of engines, which allows you to compare units with different types of motors.
A powerful motor is needed above all in order to provide a high splitting force (see above). However, when choosing, it is worth focus not so much on power, but on the force stated in the characteristics and the length / thickness of the logs. In addition, in the case of electric motors (see "Motor type"), the power directly determines the energy consumption, which is important in some situations (when running from a generator, with weak wiring, etc.)
Country of origin
Country of origin of the brand under which the log splitter is presented on the market. This country does not necessarily coincide with the place of actual production — on the contrary, it is not uncommon for individual parts to be produced in one state, assembled in another, and the brand generally comes from a third.
Also note that the country of origin itself does not affect the quality of the goods — a lot depends on the specific brand and even specific models. So it makes sense to pay attention to this information mainly in those cases when you fundamentally want (or do not want) to support a manufacturer from a certain country. Among the countries producing wood splitters are:
Austria,
Belarus,
Germany,
Denmark,
China,
Poland,
Russia,
USA,
Slovenia,
Ukraine,
Czech Republic,
Japan.