Do you need a log splitter? While they've been used for years in the logging industry, there is a demand for smaller machines. As a result there are several manufacturers producing models of log splitters that are suitable for a small user such as a homeowner or a small firewood outfit. These smaller users may be more price sensitive than industrial users and therefore they would consider building their own log splitter.
On the surface, this decision looks reasonable. These users are not looking for high volume processors. They split fewer logs than an industrial processor. Rather than buy, they can build from scratch at a lower cost. These potential users feel that since so many plans are available to building a log splitter, it must be less costly to build rather then buy. They feel that the savings will be well worth the effort.
Well, maybe yes, maybe no. Lower cash outlay is certainly a consideration. But those savings don't come without some consideration of the disadvantages of building that may be involved.
The first thing you must do is choose a plan and go through the bill of materials. It is possible that the cost of all of the material needed is less than the cost of buying. what about having to buy new tools in order to build this machine? What about finding expensive specialty parts. Costs like this can quickly add up.
Don't put your check book away when you've finished building. There's fine tuning and maintaining your newly built log splitter. What if the motor you've used cannot handle larger or heavier logs? What if the machine breaks while processing the first log. Now, had you purchased a lot splitter, you could take it back under these circumstances, since it was most likely covered under a manufacturer's warranty of return policy. This is not an option for someone who's built the machine themselves. They built it, they're the ones who have to make it run properly.
The process of actually building the splitter can be just as dangerous as using one. You need mechanical aptitude and understanding to do the job properly. If you do not wholly understand the process involved it can cost a costly mistake.
Time is another factor. How much time do you have to locate plans and purchase everything on the bill of materials. How much time do you have to locate and rent specialty tools, if required? How long will it take to read and understand the plans before you start? And finally, how long will it take you to simply build a log splitter assuming nothing goes wrong. Time is money. What is your time worth?
There are issues of safety while building the machine, safety while operating the machine, the value of your time, and the cost of potential do-overs that must be considered. If you are a skilled mechanic with access to the proper tools, building your own log splitter is something that you could consider. However, if you're like most of us, it's an interesting idea, but in the long run, it is cheaper, safer and most of all, simply easier, to buy rather than build a log splitter.
If you decide to build a log splitter you can spend more time and money than purchasing one. However, purchasing one can also be difficult if you are not sure what type of wood splitter is best for you. You need to find one that fits your needs. Get help finding whether an electric, gas or manual wood splitter is best for you!
Wood Splitter resource guide.
Log Splitter resource guide.
