Wel-Bilt Manual Slide Hammer Log Splitter
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8
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poor design
My problem with this item is that the wedge rod is such a loose fit in the sliding handle that it can bind when fully extended, sometimes stopping the downward blow completely, which is extremely aggravating. To avoid this the tendency is to shorten the stroke so it can't hang up and thus lose momentum and require more effort to get through the log.
On the plus side, it is simple to place the wedge where it is wanted and thus easier to aim than an axe or maul. I cut logs shorter (12") than standard firewood because I use it in a fireplace insert with a small firebox and the wedge splits this quite easily if it doesn't bind. I use a bungee cord to hold the log together while splitting and can easily split into as many pieces as desired without having to continually bend over to reset the wood - the worst part of splitting I think. The initial split in half is the hardest requiring from 4-10 blows (partly due to the shortened stroke) but then the rest splits off with 1-2 blows. This is a great idea, just poorly executed.
October 15, 2012
Slide hammer log splitter: great tool
This tool works very well for smaller logs, but takes a little more effort for anything large or not dried yet.
But, in areas where you are not able to swing a maul or axe, it is fantastic.
Also, with a little patience, anyone can split wood, regardless of age.
Neat idea, simple package.
October 9, 2012
Great little tool
Love this little tool. Even my wife and kids as little as about 60 poun soaking wet can use this device to split logs. I cut 'em put, and they split and stack. Safe, simple and avoids the "I can't" comments that come with a standard splitting maul.
January 9, 2012
Industrial manual log splitter
I used a splitter identical to the one in the picture and it was fabulous - even on large logs. About 4 yrs ago (I know, I have been meaning to write this) I bought two from Northern Industrial. They did not function and I had given one to a friend as a gift. The biggest problem is that they look NOTHING like the picture. Therefore, instead of being a sharp- angled somewhat narrow wedge, what you get is a large fat wedge, with a sharp- angle of about 1/2". It also comes complete with added splitting wings. This will never work because it's not made to do the job. Go back and sell the ones that are identical to the picture, they have an angled sharp wedge approximately 12" long.
July 30, 2009
Not for the Weak
Bought for my husband for Christmas a few years back. We tried it then. You need a lot of muscle to split wood with it. My husband had trouble and he is no weakling. Our friends gave him a hard time until they tried it too. This is not worth the money. Sold it in a garage sale for $10.
November 18, 2008
Multipurpose
A friend recommended and loaned me the manual splitter for removing old cedar fense posts and their supporting concrete to allow for a new fense construction. I then used it for clearing rock while digging for concrete deck supports. It requires a little caution, lube, labor and practice to be effective, but it did the trick and remained sharp despite the concrete abuse. There is a little spalling of concrete and rock, so I would wear glasses. He left the area so I desided to buy my own for the convenience of having it available for its intended purpose "splitting logs".
June 2, 2008
Didn't work for me
I purchased one of these splitters last winter and have been meaning to write a review ever since. My brother and I both tried using it with very little success. It was nice to be able to use it to finish splitting a log after we started it the old fashioned way.
One use I found for the splitter was as an impromptu ice breaker.
December 14, 2007
This will not beat a good splitting maul
The wedge is too small and in general does not seem to split any of the tough logs any better then a good splitting maul. This may be a good alternative for those who have a problem lifting a splitting maul over their heads or are concerned about their aim. It is nice to be able to position the wedge just where you want it. But the slide started to seize up after only a few logs and will require some lube to free it. I also feel that a longer stroke would help to get more power out of it.
October 19, 2007