Benefits of 2 Way Log Splitters

The LS218 is an efficient wood splitter, with a strong splitting force and fast cycle time

The Woodland Mills LS218 Log Splitter is a great addition to any landowners property, able to efficiently split wood and turn your logs into firewood. 

It features a 2-way wedge that splits wood on both the forward and return stroke. This is different from many types of log splitters on the market and offers unique advantages over other models.

So what are some of the strengths of 2-way splitters and how can the LS218 benefit you and your property?

What are the basics of log splitting?

For anyone who depends on firewood to heat their home or property, log splitting is an essential task that can quickly become time-consuming without the right equipment.

A log splitter is: a powerful machine designed to make this job easier by using a hydraulic cylinder to generate splitting force, allowing you to split logs into manageable pieces of firewood with minimal effort.

Whether you’re preparing for winter, stocking up for outdoor gatherings or have a small-scale firewood business, having a reliable wood splitter can save you countless hours and physical strain.

How do log splitters work?

The core of any log splitter is its ability to deliver consistent power through its hydraulic system, efficiently splitting even dense or knotted wood.

One of the key features to look for is the machine’s cycle time, the amount of time it takes to split a log and return to its starting position. A faster cycle time means you can split more logs in less time, making your firewood preparation much more efficient.

When selecting a log splitter, it’s important to consider the type of wood you’ll be working with and the quantity of firewood you need to produce. Features like a 2-way wedge, which splits logs in both directions can significantly boost your productivity. These options allow you to tailor the machine’s performance to your specific needs, whether you’re splitting large rounds or smaller logs.

What is a 2-way log splitter?

As the name implies, a 2-way log splitter splits logs with a wedge on both the forward and return action. These machines are very efficient, since none of the unit's movements go to waste.

This means you can split double the quantity of logs in the same amount of time of an equivalent one-way splitter. It also has an 18-ton splitting force, giving it a good amount of power to convert your logs into firewood.

2-way splitter models like the LS218 are not only efficient, but can be affordable options for landowners who don't want to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a firewood processor. It also features a ball hitch and Kohler engine so it can be used portably.

What are the advantages to a 2-way log splitter?

Models of 2-way log splitter like the LS218 offer a number of benefits over other models and types of firewood splitters. They feature:

• • An efficient use of fuel, since you're able to make use of the return action

  • Cost, since 2-way hydraulic log splitters are much more budget-friendly than expensive firewood processors

  • Portability, due to its solid steel axle system with two wheels and ball hitch

  • Compact form factor, that won't take up much space on your property

What is the best way of using a 2-way log splitter?

A 2-way log splitter like the LS218 is much like other models of wood splitters and it's been designed to be easy to use. Once you've readied your pile of log rounds, and get one position onto the splitter:

• • Position the round between the splitting wedge and the secondary wedge

  • Engage the handle to activate the action, performing the initial cut

  • If you want to halve your rounds, you can then remove the log halves and prep the next round. If you want to quarter them or make them even smaller, place the split rounds on the active side of the wedge and engage the handle in the opposite direction

  • Move the handle to the left to send the splitting wedge to the left, performing the secondary cut

With a cycle time of 7-8 seconds you can process a large quantity of logs quickly. As you learn how to use the machine and become more efficient, you can quickly turn your log pile into a stack of firewood, providing you with a valuable resource for your property.

If you've also purchased and equipped the hydraulic lifting table, you can also use it to load larger rounds onto the splitter.

How does the LS218 arrive, will I need to build it?

Assembly is simple, and the directions included in the operator's manual are easy to follow and you should have your machine running in just a few short hours. The main body is fully assembled out of the crate, but you'll need to complete assembly of the axle and hitch systems.