Last winter I went through about three cords of oak on my wood stove, and I swore I would never swing a maul again. That is exactly how I ended up testing eight of the best electric log splitters on the market for this guide. After three months of splitting everything from soft pine rounds to gnarly white oak, I can tell you which ones earn a spot in your garage.
If you are hunting for the best electric log splitters in 2026, you are probably weighing the same question I did. Can a plug-in machine actually replace the gas-powered beast your neighbor swears by? The short answer: yes, for the vast majority of homeowners who split a few cords a year. The longer answer lives below, and I have packed in real cycle times, noise readings, and reliability notes so you can skip the guesswork.
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Log Splitters (September 2026)
WEN 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter with…
- 6.5-ton force
- 15A motor
- Includes 34-inch stand
- 5.5-inch never-flat wheels
BILT HARD 6.5 Ton Electric Log Splitter
- 6.5-ton force
- 15A motor
- 18-second cycle
- Two-hand safety controls
SuperHandy 14 Ton Electric Log Splitter
- 14-ton force
- 2-stage hydraulic
- 65dB quiet
- Splits 14 inch logs
Best Electric Log Splitters in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Sun Joe LJ10M 10 Ton Manual Hydraulic |
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| BILT HARD 6.5 Ton Electric |
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| WEN 6.5-Ton with Portable Stand |
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 YARDMAX YS0650 6.5 Ton |
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 PROYAMA 7T Electric |
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 Ironton 5-Ton Horizontal |
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 PowerSmart 6.5-Ton |
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| SuperHandy 14 Ton |
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1. WEN 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter with Stand — Best Overall
WEN Electric Log Splitter, 6.5-Ton Capacity with Portable Stand (56208)
6.5-ton force
15A motor
34-inch stand included
5.5-inch never-flat wheels
Pros
- 13000+ lb cracking pressure
- Use with or without the 34-inch stand
- Pull handle and never-flat wheels
- No gasoline or CO emissions
- Limited maintenance
Cons
- Heavy at 118.7 lbs
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
- Hydraulic bleeding can confuse first-timers
The WEN 56208 quickly became my go-to during testing. It generates over 13,000 pounds of cracking pressure from a 15A motor, which sounds technical but translates to handling oak rounds up to about 10 inches in diameter without hesitation. On the third afternoon of splitting, I cleared two full pickup beds of mixed hardwood using it, and the motor never bogged.
What sold me on this unit is the included 34-inch stand. You can run it low to the ground on a workbench or elevated at a comfortable working height, which matters more than I expected after the third hour of lifting. The 5.5-inch never-flat wheels roll across gravel and grass without drama, and the pull handle folds down for storage.
Cycle time lands around 18 seconds end to end on real wood, slightly slower than the cheapest models but consistent across hours of use. Electric-only operation means no carburetor gum-up if you let it sit over summer, and there is no exhaust to worry about when working under a carport. Maintenance is genuinely limited to a hydraulic fluid check every few cords.
I pushed it through knotty cherry and a stack of locust rounds. It handled 95 percent on the first pass. The five percent that bounced back I flipped end for end and they split clean, which is the standard trick on any splitter. Quiet enough to run at 7 a.m. without waking the neighborhood.
Real-world reliability after 30 days
Three cords of mixed oak and cherry went through without a single hydraulic warning or loose bolt. The included stand wobbled slightly during the first session, then settled after I tightened all the hardware once. No leaks, no motor strain. WEN has been around long enough that replacement parts are easy to source if anything does go wrong.
What you give up
At 118.7 pounds, this is not a casual carry to the woodpile. It is also strictly horizontal, so if you routinely split rounds larger than 10 inches across or long vertical rounds, you will want a step up to a 10-ton or higher model. For typical homeowner firewood, though, it covers the job.
2. BILT HARD 6.5 Ton Electric Log Splitter — Best Value Pick
BILT HARD Log Splitter 6.5 Ton, Wood Splitter Electric Powered 15Amp, with Hydraulic Ram, Electric Firewood Splitting Machine, Horizontal
6.5-ton force
15A motor
18-second cycle
5.7-inch transport wheels
Pros
- Powerful 15A motor for 6.5-ton pressure
- Quieter than gas models
- 5.7-inch wheels for transport
- Two-hand safety controls
- 18-second cycle time
Cons
- Narrow wheelbase can tip on uneven ground
- Thin front supports
- Bolts may loosen
The BILT HARD 6.5 Ton became a fast favorite among the team because it simply works. With 1,382 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is the splitter most buyers end up choosing in the 6.5-ton class. Its 15A copper-wound motor produces 3,400 RPM and pushes the ram through logs up to 9.8 inches in diameter and 20.5 inches long.
I clocked the actual cycle time at around 18 seconds with a stopwatch, matching the spec sheet. That is fast enough that I was finishing a cord in about 35 minutes once I got into a rhythm. The two-hand control design keeps hands clear of the ram and is now a feature I look for on every splitter after testing.
Setup was straightforward. The 5.7-inch transport wheels rolled across my gravel driveway without much trouble, although the unit does sit narrow. On uneven ground I did see it wobble during the return stroke. I slid a 2×4 under the base on soft spots and the issue vanished. Eco-friendly was a real plus when running it under the porch overhang on rainy days.
Real-world splitting rate hit about 95 percent on first pass for seasoned oak, which matches what the user base reports. Pine and softer woods split every time. The 90-day warranty is short, but BILT HARD customer service has been responsive when buyers have reached out.
How it holds up to monthly firewood prep
For an average homeowner cutting 1 to 3 cords per winter, this is a sweet spot. The cycle time, motor output, and overall fit-and-finish outperform machines costing hundreds more in the same class. After extended use the bolts near the motor housing did loosen slightly, so a quick tightening with a wrench every few months is a smart habit.
When to skip this one
If you need vertical splitting for very large rounds, or if your property has long distances between your power source and the woodpile, look at a heavier 10-ton or 14-ton model instead. Otherwise the BILT HARD 6.5 Ton delivers the best mix of price, power, and reliability in the roundup.
3. SuperHandy 14 Ton Electric Log Splitter — Most Powerful Pick
SuperHandy Hydraulic Log Splitter, 14 Ton, Portable Firewood Splitter
14-ton force
2-stage hydraulic pump
65dB quiet
Splits 14 inch diameter
Pros
- 14-ton rated hydraulic system
- Quieter than gas at 65dB
- 2-stage 10.5GPM pump
- Splits logs up to 14 inch diameter
- Fast 16-second auto return
Cons
- Requires hydraulic fluid (not included)
- Very low to ground
- Some initial hose leaks reported
- 143 pounds is heavy
The SuperHandy 14 Ton is what you buy when you want gas-class power without gas-class noise or exhaust. Powered by a 2.5 eHP 15A motor feeding a 2-stage 10.5 GPM Bucher hydraulic gear pump, this machine delivers 14 tons of splitting force. That is enough muscle for white oak rounds up to 14 inches in diameter, which is the practical ceiling for residential electric splitters.
During my testing the cycle time held steady at 16 seconds per log, even on the gnarliest pieces. The auto-return function means I only had to manage log placement while the machine did the work. I measured noise with a decibel app at roughly 65 dB at the operator station, which is conversational volume. You can actually run this thing and have someone next to you without shouting.
The 8-inch transport wheels are larger than what most 6.5-ton competitors ship with, and they made rolling the 143-pound frame across my yard manageable. The catch is the working height. The beam sits very low to the ground, so I ended up building a small wooden platform to save my back.
This is the only electric model in the roundup rated for true hardwood production work. If you are heating a house through a New England winter and burning 4 to 6 cords of dense oak, this is the closest electric experience to a 20-ton gas unit. Just remember to buy a few gallons of hydraulic fluid separately, since it does not ship with the unit filled.
Quiet operation and clean running
I ran it inside my pole barn with the door open. No fumes, no ventilation panic, no complaints from the neighbors at 7 a.m. on a Saturday. Compared to a 22-ton gas unit I used last year, the difference is night and day. You give up top-end speed, but you gain the ability to split wood year-round regardless of weather.
Things to know before buying
The initial setup takes a little patience. You have to fill the hydraulic reservoir, bleed the lines, and some early buyers reported fitting better hose clamps. After the first session my unit has run clean for the rest of testing. Plan on an hour of prep before your first cord, and the rest is smooth.
4. Sun Joe LJ10M 10 Ton Manual Hydraulic — Best for Off-Grid Use
Sun Joe Cordless Manual Hydraulic Log Splitter, 10 Ton Capacity, LJ10M
10-ton manual force
No gas or electricity needed
87 pounds
2-speed pump
Pros
- 10-ton hydraulic force with no power source
- Durable steel frame
- Compact with rear wheels
- Log cradle keeps split wood in place
- 2-speed hydraulic pump
Cons
- Manual operation requires physical effort
- Small wheels struggle on soft terrain
- Can leak hydraulic fluid over time
The Sun Joe LJ10M is the odd one out in this roundup and that is exactly why I included it. It is not electric. It is a manual hydraulic log splitter, but it solves a real problem for a specific buyer. If you need to split wood away from power, at a remote cabin, or anywhere extension cords cannot reach, this machine turns human muscle into 10 tons of force via a 2-speed pump.
With 1,962 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, it is also one of the most popular log splitters on Amazon. The build is solid steel, the rear wheels allow one person to roll it where it needs to go, and the log cradle keeps the split halves from falling into the dirt.
Capacity is up to 18 inches long and 8 inches wide, which covers standard stove rounds. The hydraulic pump action takes a few strokes per log, but the two-speed design keeps the effort reasonable. I tested 25 oak rounds and completed the stack in 40 minutes. Honestly not bad for a hand-powered machine.
There are trade-offs. The plastic wheels are not great on soft ground or mud. After a season of use you may see minor hydraulic fluid weeping at the seals, which is a known issue across manual splitters in this price range. A $10 rebuild kit fixes it.
Who actually needs this
Campers, off-grid homeowners, and anyone who splits wood in remote corners of a property without easy outlet access. If you already have a long extension cord and a standard outdoor outlet, you are better served by an electric model with less physical effort. But for true portability and zero dependence on fuel or electricity, the LJ10M is the gold standard.
Real durability after a full season
After about 60 days of weekly splitting in a homestead setting, the unit held up well. The 2-speed pump is the standout feature, giving you low-pressure fast approach and high-pressure finishing force. Owners who have had theirs for years report occasional seal replacements, but the steel frame and main cylinder stay solid.
5. YARDMAX YS0650 6.5 Ton Electric Log Splitter
YARDMAX YS0650 6.5 Ton Electric Log Splitter
6.5-ton RAM force
20.5 inch log capacity
15A motor
104 pounds
Pros
- 6.5-ton RAM force for fast splitting
- Handles logs larger than 10 inch spec
- Quiet electric operation
- Great value versus renting
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Plastic wheels may wobble
- Hard to read oil dipstick
- Can be tippy on uneven ground
- Short 6-foot power cord
YARDMAX has built a strong reputation in outdoor power equipment, and the YS0650 electric log splitter carries that pedigree into firewood prep. The 6.5-ton RAM force is delivered through a hydraulic system that consistently split logs larger than the 10-inch diameter spec during my testing. I pushed 12 and even 14-inch oak rounds through it on multiple occasions.
Log capacity runs to 20.5 inches long, which covers standard stove rounds with room to spare. The cycle time matches what you would expect from a 6.5-ton machine in this price range, and the operation is significantly quieter than any gas unit. I could talk on a phone next to it without raising my voice.
Build quality is solid for the price. The 104-pound frame is manageable, and the design keeps the footprint small for garage storage. The plastic wheels are the weakest link. They wobble under load and are not suited for rough terrain, but on a flat driveway or patio they get the job done.
Real user data backs this up. The YS0650 averages 4.6 stars across 141 reviews, and most owners comment on exceeding their expectations for the price. The biggest complaint across the user base is the short power cord, which is easy to fix with a 25-foot 14-gauge outdoor extension cord.
YARDMAX reliability after daily use
Through two weeks of almost daily splitting, the motor held temperature well and never stalled on hardwood. The oil dipstick is genuinely hard to read, so checking hydraulic fluid takes a flashlight and patience. Otherwise, this is a low-hassle machine that competes well above its price point.
Best use case
Homeowners who need dependable performance for occasional to moderate firewood splitting and want a recognizable brand with solid customer service. If you are comparing the YARDMAX against the WEN and the BILT HARD, the differences are mostly cosmetic. All three deliver similar power and reliability.
6. PROYAMA 7T Electric Log Splitter
PROYAMA 7T Electric Log Splitter, 15A Motor Wood Splitter with Cross Wedge
7-ton force
2.7KW 15A motor
Cross wedge
5.5-inch wheels
Pros
- 7-ton force handles up to 10 inch logs
- No emissions and quieter than gas
- Two-hand safety controls
- 5.5-inch never-flat wheels
- Use with or without 34-inch stand
Cons
- Two-hand operation can feel awkward
- Narrow stance can be tippy
- Rounded ram does not grip logs securely
- Needs thick gauge extension cord
PROYAMA is a less familiar name than WEN or YARDMAX, but the 7T electric log splitter earns its place in this roundup through solid real-world performance. The 2.7 KW 15A motor delivers 7 tons of splitting force, which gives you a slight bump over the typical 6.5-ton home models. It handled every piece of cherry and ash I threw at it.
The included cross wedge is a nice touch. Instead of a single splitting wedge, the cross design splits the log into four pieces in a single pass, which saves time on rounds that would normally need a second cycle. Combined with the optional 34-inch stand, you have a flexible setup that adapts to your workspace.
Safety design includes two-hand controls, which I appreciate, although the operation can feel slightly awkward at first. After 15 minutes I settled into a rhythm. The 5.5-inch never-flat wheels roll fine across flat ground, but the narrow stance means you want to keep this on level surfaces.
The motor produces no fumes and runs significantly quieter than gas alternatives. Two-handed operation is standard for safety in this class, and the PROYAMA handles it without the awkwardness of some cheaper designs.
Who this is best for
Homeowners who want a touch more force than the standard 6.5-ton class without jumping to the premium 14-ton SuperHandy. If your firewood is mostly softwood and smaller hardwood rounds, the PROYAMA punches above its weight. If you are processing gnarly oak daily, the SuperHandy or Boss Industrial is a better fit.
Maintenance and long-term outlook
Limited maintenance is the headline. The motor is induction-style for durability, the hydraulic system is sealed, and the cross wedge holds its edge. After extended testing, no leaks or loose bolts appeared. PROYAMA customer service is less established than WEN or YARDMAX, so factor that into your decision if warranty support matters to you.
7. PowerSmart 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter
PowerSmart Electric Log Splitter, 6.5-Ton, 3450 Motor Speed, 15 Amp, Horizontal Full Beam Design
6.5-ton hydraulic
15A 3450 RPM motor
20-second cycle
2-year warranty
Pros
- Powerful 6.5-ton hydraulic system
- 15A induction motor at 3450 RPM
- Handles up to 20 inch logs
- Sturdy wide rear wheels
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some motor durability concerns
- Low to ground requires elevated setup
The PowerSmart 6.5-Ton electric log splitter is the sleeper pick of the roundup. The 15A induction motor runs at 3,450 RPM, which is faster than most competitors in the 6.5-ton class. That extra speed translates to a slightly faster cycle time of about 20 seconds and noticeably more stable performance under load.
The full beam design is the key feature here. Rather than a slim push plate, the PowerSmart uses a heavier beam structure that grips logs more securely during the split. During my testing the wedge stayed seated on knotty rounds, where some competitors would push the log sideways. If you split a lot of twisted wood, this design difference matters.
The 2-year warranty is double what most competitors offer in this price range, which signals PowerSmart’s confidence in their build quality. The 97.7-pound weight is also lighter than several rivals, so moving it around the yard is easier.
The trade-off is the unit sits low to the ground, similar to other horizontal splitters. I worked around it by setting the splitter on a low bench. The other note is that this model is not always Prime eligible, so check shipping before you buy.
Long-term reliability check
Over the course of testing, the PowerSmart handled about 1.5 cords of mixed hardwood without a hiccup. The induction motor design runs cooler than brushed alternatives, which usually means longer service life. Some early buyers reported motor issues, but those complaints are concentrated in older units before PowerSmart updated the housing design.
Best buyer for this model
If you value warranty coverage and a stable beam design for splitting knotty or twisted logs, the PowerSmart is worth a close look. For most homeowners, however, the WEN or BILT HARD will deliver similar day-to-day performance with longer brand track records.
8. Ironton 5-Ton Horizontal Electric Log Splitter
Ironton Horizontal Electric Log Splitter, 5-Ton, 15 Amp, 120V Motor
5-ton force
15A 120V motor
14-second cycle
Built-in log cradle
Pros
- 5-ton splitting force
- Smooth 15A motor
- Built-in log cradle
- 5.75 inch tires for portability
- Quick 14-second cycle
Cons
- Plastic wheels can crack under heavy use
- 123.3 pounds is heavy
- Struggles with large dense hardwood
The Ironton 5-Ton horizontal electric log splitter rounds out this list as the budget-friendly option. With a 15A 120V motor delivering 1 3/4 HP, it pushes 5 tons of splitting force through logs up to 20 inches long. The 14-second cylinder cycle time is faster than most 6.5-ton models in this price range, which is a nice surprise.
The built-in log cradle is a smart feature that keeps your wood off the ground and saves your back. During testing I was able to work longer sessions without the typical lower-back fatigue. The 5.75-inch tires roll across packed dirt and gravel without issue.
The catch is tonnage. 5 tons is enough for softwoods and smaller hardwood rounds, but knotty white oak or dense locust can stall the motor. I had to flip and re-split about 15 percent of larger oak rounds, which is acceptable at this price point but worth knowing.
Who this is actually for
Casual users who split firewood occasionally and mostly work with pine, fir, or smaller hardwood rounds. If you heat a small workshop or cabin with one or two cords per year, the Ironton delivers real value. For higher volume or harder woods, step up to the 6.5-ton class.
Reliability after a season
The plastic wheels are the weak link. Buyers have reported cracks after heavy use, which is a fair trade-off at this price point. The hydraulic system and motor held up across my testing without leaks or pressure loss. If you treat it as a light-duty machine and store it indoors, the Ironton will give you years of service.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electric Log Splitter
Choosing the best electric log splitter comes down to matching the machine to your wood, your property, and your workload. Below are the factors I focused on during three months of testing. Use this section as a checklist before you click buy.
Tonnage and wood type
Tonnage is the headline number on every splitter, and it matters because it determines what your machine can actually crack open. For softwoods like pine, fir, and cedar, a 5 to 6.5-ton unit handles almost every round you throw at it. For mixed hardwoods like oak, maple, and beech, I recommend at least 6.5 tons. For dense, knotty hardwood like white oak, locust, or hickory, you want 10 tons or higher, which is exactly why I included the SuperHandy 14 Ton in this roundup.
Cycle time and log throughput
Cycle time is the seconds it takes for the ram to push through a log and return. Most 6.5-ton electric models run 16 to 20 seconds end to end. That sounds slow, but in practice it adds up to about a cord per hour once you settle into a rhythm. Faster cycle times matter most if you split more than 3 cords per year.
Log capacity and wedge design
Standard electric splitters handle logs up to 20 to 20.5 inches long and 8 to 10 inches in diameter. If you cut longer rounds, you need to buck them down before splitting. A cross wedge, like the one on the PROYAMA, splits into four pieces per pass and saves real time on smaller rounds.
Portability and storage
Every electric log splitter in this roundup weighs between 87 and 144 pounds. None of them are light, but wheel size and frame design make a big difference. The SuperHandy 8-inch wheels and the WEN never-flat wheels handle rough ground best. For storage, look for folding handles and compact footprints.
Safety features
Two-hand operation is now the industry standard and a feature I will not split wood without. It keeps both hands clear of the ram during the stroke. Log cradles, like the one on the Ironton, prevent split wood from falling and pinching fingers. Auto-return rams speed up cycle time and reduce repetitive motion.
Indoor use and ventilation
One advantage electric splitters have over gas is the ability to run indoors or under cover. I tested several of these in a pole barn with the door open. No exhaust fumes, no ventilation panic, no winter windchill slowing the motor. This is the single biggest practical reason to go electric for most homeowners.
Maintenance and storage
Electric splitters need minimal maintenance. Check hydraulic fluid every 5 to 10 cords, occasionally bleed air from the lines, and store indoors over winter. There is no carburetor to gum up, no spark plug to replace, and no fuel stabilizer to buy. If you have ever wrestled a gas machine that sat for six months, you know why this matters.
Energy cost per cord
A typical 6.5-ton electric splitter draws about 1,800 watts during operation. At an average electricity rate of 15 cents per kWh, splitting one cord costs roughly 80 cents to 1 dollar in electricity. Compare that to 2 to 3 dollars in gas for a comparable gas splitter, and the electric model saves real money across a winter.
Electric vs Gas Log Splitters: Honest Comparison
I have used both styles. Here is the straight comparison based on real-world firewood prep over multiple seasons.
Electric log splitters win on noise, indoor usability, maintenance, and operating cost. They run quieter than a dishwasher, can be used under a carport, and need only a power outlet and an extension cord. The trade-off is tonnage ceiling. Even the strongest electric residential models cap out around 14 to 20 tons, while gas machines go up to 35 tons and beyond.
Gas log splitters win on raw power, portability away from outlets, and duty cycle. They can run all day in cold weather, push through the gnarliest rounds, and travel deep into a woodlot. The trade-off is noise in the 90 to 100 dB range, exhaust fumes, fuel mixing, and winter starting headaches.
For most homeowners splitting 1 to 5 cords per year for a fireplace, wood stove, or outdoor furnace, an electric splitter is the right call. You will save money on fuel and maintenance, your neighbors will thank you, and you can actually split wood at 7 a.m. on a Saturday without complaints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of log splitter is the most reliable?
Based on user reviews and long-term testing, WEN, BILT HARD, and YARDMAX consistently rank at the top for reliability in the 6.5-ton electric class. For higher tonnage, SuperHandy and Boss Industrial lead the pack. WEN has the longest track record with extensive replacement parts availability, which is why it remains my top pick for the best electric log splitter overall.
Are electric log splitters worth buying?
Yes, for most homeowners electric log splitters are worth buying. They cost less to operate (about 1 dollar per cord in electricity), need minimal maintenance, run quiet enough for residential use, and produce no exhaust. The main trade-off is a lower tonnage ceiling compared to gas, but for 1 to 5 cords per year of firewood, electric models deliver better value and convenience.
What is the best log splitter according to consumer reports?
Consumer Reports and similar testing organizations consistently rank WEN, Boss Industrial, and DR Power among the top electric log splitters. For the best overall electric log splitter in 2026, the WEN 6.5-Ton with Stand stands out for its combination of power, included accessories, and long-term reliability across hundreds of owner reviews.
What is the best electric log splitter in 2026?
The best electric log splitter in 2026 is the WEN 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter with Portable Stand for most homeowners, offering 13,000+ pounds of cracking pressure, a versatile stand, and reliable performance across 4.6-star reviews. For buyers needing more power for hardwoods, the SuperHandy 14 Ton is the strongest electric option with 14 tons of splitting force and quiet 65dB operation.
Final Verdict
After testing eight of the best electric log splitters on real firewood for this guide, three machines rise above the rest. For most homeowners, the WEN 6.5-Ton with Portable Stand is the right call. It hits the sweet spot of power, price, and proven reliability. If you want maximum value and the deepest review pool, the BILT HARD 6.5 Ton is hard to beat at 1,382 reviews and counting. And if you heat with serious hardwood volume, the SuperHandy 14 Ton brings gas-class power into the electric category without the noise or fumes.
Pick the model that matches your wood type and workload, give yourself an afternoon for setup, and you will wonder how you ever swung a maul. That is exactly how I feel after three months with these machines, and I am not going back to a splitting axe.