Kinetic log splitters use a build-up of kenetic energy in large springs and release that energy on a log to quickly split it. It takes about 2-4 seconds to split a log. This difference between how they work and gas or electric powered log splitters or even hydraulic manual log splitters sets them apart. However, they do have their drawbacks.
How do kinetic splitters work
Typically, log splitters work by pushing a hydraulic ram. The ram is powered by a pump that pumps the hydraulic fluid. However, that’s not how kinetic log splitters work. Kinetic log splitters work by taking the engines power and coiling large and powerful springs. This energy is then released all at once on a log.
Advantages/Disadvantages of Manual log splitters
Like anything else, there are advantages and disadvantages to using an kinetic log splitter. These may or may not affect you but should be taken into consideration when purchasing a log splitter.
Advantages
- Speed
- No hydraulic fluid
- No pumps
Disadvantages
- Cost – More expensive
- Cannot be operated vertically
- Does work as well on logs with knots
Kinetic Log Splitter Models
There’s not a lot of kinetic log splitters on the market but here are some to consider.
DK2 Kinetic Log Splitter
The DK2 kinetic log splitter features a 7 HP Kohler engine and an over-sized table beyond the wedge. It also have a 1 second cycle time. You read that right – 1 second!
DR Rapid Fire Log Splitters
DR Equipment has a several kinetic log springs with models ranging in power and ones that are powered by electric motors so you get the benefits of an electric log splitter and the speed of a kinetic log splitter.
For gas powered models, DR has models K22 and K28. The K22 can split logs 18″ long and 30″ in diameter while the K28 is towable and can split logs 24″ long and up to 30″ in diameter. Their top of the line model is the XLK34 and it compares with 34 Ton hydraulic log splitters.
Electric models include the Pilot K10 and the K22E. The K10 is the cheapest model and has a 1 second cycle time and can split logs up to 16″ long. The K22E is like its K22 counterpart and can split logs 18″ and up to 30″ in diameter.
Oregon Kinetic Log Splitter
Oregon has a line of log splitters and part of this line-up includes a kinetic log splitter. The Oregon Kinetic Log Splitter has a 34 Ton equivalent and can handle 24″ logs
Range Road Kinetic Log Splitter
Range Road is a Canadian company that makes equipment for small to medium sized logging operations. One of the pieces of equipment they make is a kinetic log splitter. The Range Road Kinetic log splitter is electric and can split logs 20″
SpeeCo Commercial Kinetic Log Splitter
The SpeeCo Commercial Kinetic Log Splitter features a Kohler engine. It is also towable which is handy for getting it around. It has a 2 second cycle time.
Woods Kinetic Log Splitter
The Woods Kinetic Log Splitter is a commercial/residential splitter that can split 24″ logs and features a 32″ table for working rounds. The unit is towable.
WoodMaxx Kinetic Log Splitters
WoodMaxx is a another U.S. based manufacturer that makes two kinetic log splitter models. The first model is the LS-28T. It’s a 28 Ton equivalent log splitter that can split 24″ logs up to 28″ in diameter. The next model is the LS-34T. This model can also handle 24″ and 28″ in diameter.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a number of different options for kinetic log splitters. Kinetic splitters have power and most importantly speed. They are a great choice if want to get the job done and have few logs with knotted wood. If none of these work for you, you can always take a look at electric log splitters or manual log splitters and see if anything there will work for you.
Hopefully this guide has been helpful in showing you the different options that are available. Check out our other exclusive Guides on LincOn.com
If you know of any other kinetic log splitters that should be on this list, please email Dave at dbroer@LincOn.com
