A wood splitting machine should be powerful enough to handle different lengths and diameters for logs, however, it should also be easy to use and come equipped with intuitive controls. The 7-ton horizontal gas log splitter by Champion is one of the smallest gas-powered models on the market. But this is just one of the many reasons it stands out from the competition. Since most models in this price range are electric, this model has a huge advantage over the competition since gas-powered models are notoriously more powerful than electric wood splitters. If you’re looking for an efficient model that’s compact and easy to transport and store, then this machine is definitely worth a second look.
Our Verdict: This compact, reasonably priced gas-powered splitter is everything you’d expect from Champion, a company with a reputation for producing only the best. It features the popular never-flat tires for easier transportation and storage, automatic return for simple setups and a faster splitting process, and a log cradle that prevents the wood from falling to the ground. Basically, this is a machine that has it all. I would recommend this model for both home and commercial use.
Table of Contents
Overview and Features of Log Splitters
Since this model doesn’t run on electricity, you won’t have to worry about using extension cords or staying in close proximity to an outlet. Additionally, since it runs on gas, it’s much more powerful than a competing electric-powered model. Where an electric model would falter, this machine can get the job done easily. If you’re in need of a machine that can prepare the best wood for wood burning, then look no further. The machine’s simple setup and basic automatic splitting process make this model very beginner-friendly, powerful, and efficient.
Product Rating:
- Most affordable gas-powered splitter
- Easy assembly
- Four-stroke engine
- Automatic return
- Compact design
- Can handle larger logs compared to competing models
Push Through Design
This model is also referred to as a push through wood splitter. This means that its splitting wedge is mounted on the machine’s I-beam. When the ram pushes the log into the wedge it will split the log, with the pieces ending up at the end of the splitter as opposed to falling on the ground.
Engine
This model comes with an 80CC OHV four-stroke engine, which offers a surprising amount of power for its size. The powerful engine will make the log splitting process faster and comes with a twenty-second cycle time. Since this is a gas-powered model you’ll have to be prepared for cold starts based on weather, the carburetor clogging, and frequent oil changes. Obviously, the maintenance needs for this model are higher than what you can expect with an electric splitter, but the more powerful motor and efficient operation seems to be a fair tradeoff.
Design
You may notice right off the bat that this machine sits pretty low to the ground at just eighteen inches tall. Since it sits so close to the ground you won’t have to lift heavier logs as far off the ground like you would with models that are almost twice the height. However, you will have to do a fair amount of bending, which is something you may want to consider if you have back issues.
Log Size
According to the manufacturer, this model can handle wood that’s ten inches in diameter and nineteen inches in length.
Portable Design
As I mentioned, this is one of the smallest models of gas-powered splitters on the market. Because of its smaller design, this model is highly portable and easy to store and transport. The two ten-inch never-flat tires also do a great job of traveling over uneven terrain.
Weight of Champion Log Splitter
Weighing in at one hundred and forty-three pounds, despite the compact design this model weighs more than what I was expecting. However, thanks to the never-flat tires, moving this machine from one place to another is fast and easy.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros of Champion Log Splitter
- Durable construction
- Automatic return
- Never-flat tires
- Four-stroke engine
- Push through design
- Gas-powered
Cons of Champion Log Splitter
- High maintenance needs
- Fuel costs
Champion Wood Splitter Vs. Sun Joe LJ10M Hydraulic Log Splitter
Considered one of the best log splitters on the market, the Sun Joe hydraulic log splitter features ten tons of driving force thanks to a two-speed pump, while this machine by Champion only offers seven tons. It can handle wood up to eight inches wide and eighteen inches long, which is pretty impressive. Like this model, the competition also comes with a log cradle that’s designed to prevent the split logs from falling to the ground. The competing machine’s ram return spring provides a faster reset time in comparison, however, it weighs in at eighty-seven pounds and doesn’t come with built-in tires which makes the machine difficult to transport. It’s also manually operated, so it’s nowhere near as powerful as this gas-powered model. However, the price is right. If you’re on a tight budget and in need of a more affordable splitter, then this Sun Joe machine is a great option. If you’re looking for a model that’s more powerful and designed for bigger jobs, then this Champion log splitter has got you covered.
Conclusion and Rating of Log Splitter Reviews
Product Rating:
You’ll be hard-pressed to find another gas-powered splitter in this price range. This is one of the leading wood splitting machines on the market and it’s packing some serious power, which is what makes it perfect for both home and pro use. Champion has done it again by producing an affordable machine that has what it takes to get the job done, whether at home or for commercial use.
This log splitting machine may be small, but it’s not lacking in power. Equipped with the popular automatic return feature and the push through design, this is a log splitting machine that can easily handle all of your wood splitting needs. I gave this model a rating of four and a half stars out of five.