Quality Craft Foot-Operated Log Splitter – 1.5-Ton Capacity, Model# LSF-001

This log splitter required some assembly but was a cinch to install. The two rubber feet really should have a permanent nut and bolt connection so that the log splitter isn’t wobbly; I scrounged something up from my own collection. If I remember correctly, the splitter came with some kind of dowel or locking pin that just wasn’t appropriate. The other annoying small part is the part that holds the log splitter shut for ease of transportation. This part kept falling off for me, but since I’m not going to be transporting the splitter, I didn’t care. You can easily transport the splitter while it is in the open position, anyway.

As for operation, the splitter works flawlessly for *small* logs, and larger logs simply don’t fit, so you’re not tempted to try them. The top log guide prevents you from trying to cut something longer than the splitter can handle. You could try cutting something wider than the splitter can handle (say, something more than 13 or 14 inches in diameter?), but doing so is difficult, because the two metal side log guides are close together, and large-diameter logs easily roll off of them unless you steady the log with your hand, which is awkward. I think the manufacturer did this intentionally so that you don’t try to cut 13-inch logs, only 12-inch and smaller. The only logs that I had some difficulty with were some exceptionally-knotty trunk sections where 2 or 3 limbs had been attached. The log splitter binds up on these, and you have to manually twist the bound log off the wedge. This was fine, as I really didn’t want to split these anyway. These knotty pieces are best used for long overnight slow-simmering burns; I just wanted to see if the log splitter could split them. The splitter works great for small logs and large limbs, and I especially appreciate its ability to cut “wet”, heavy, unseasoned limbs (5 to 6 inches in diameter), and small logs, even ones that were cut at a slant, all of which are somewhat difficult to chop with a maul. You just stomp your foot a few times and the job is done. Just be aware that the splitter never splits entirely through. This is not a defect. The wedge needs resistance, and when resistance drops, the wedge stops. When you reach this point (65 to 75% through), you can easily pull the log sections apart with your hands. The splitter was lightweight, easy to transport, and did not require a shipping surcharge.
My Score: 4 / 5

This item works pretty well and it

saves my back from lifting an ax. I

was quite surprised that they had

such an item on the market.

My Score: 5 / 5

After moving to Connecticut from Los Angeles, I knew that I would be using the fireplace in my new home, however, I had not wielded a hatchet in decades. As a 58 year old grandmother, I was leery of starting all over again to brush up those skills. The cord of wood I bought came in fairly large pieces and I NEEDED to get at least some of them down to kindling. This nifty little machine has proven itself over and over as the perfect tool for getting those logs to the right size. Just follow the directions carefully and use with appropriate caution. It is important to inspect the grain of the log being split and to line it up properly. Very twisted chunks are best save for burning whole. Gloves will protect tender hands for the removal of the pieces from the machine.

The splitter was delivered in just a few days after ordering, and was up and working within a half hour. I keep it folded up in the mud room when not in use; it sets up easily and can split a boxful of logs in a jiffy right in the house no matter how awful the weather is outside. Best purchase I’ve made all year!
My Score: 5 / 5