Customer Reviews

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

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(7)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(7)

 

 

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.

I purchased this log splitter a year ago and wrote a positive review at that time. But, it stopped working shortly after that. As another reviewer described, the ratchet teeth bent on a fairly small log, rendering the device unusable. They need to strengthen the metal ratchet teeth, or this device is not worth purchasing.

Nice concept but the sliding ratchet stopped sliding down from gravity after about 5 logs, a major annoyance. I greased it, which helped but did not solve the problem. Then after about 20 logs several of teeth for the ratchet bent out of place, irreparably breaking it. Even if I handled it improperly, which I don't think I did, a log splitter should be more durable than that.

Also sold as the 'Fireplace Friend.'

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!

So Far So Good

We read all the negative reviews regarding broken product, etc. and ordered this with great trepidation. But, we've used it four or five times with great success. Know that we have not split heavy logs, but used it on already split logs to make smaller, kindling size wood. That seems to be it's "sweet spot". I wouldn't want to try it on heavy stuff.

Don't use this for splitting logs more than about 6 inches in diameter. I used it on 10 inch logs (about the same size as in the picture on the web site) and it broke after splitting about 20 logs; the two metal straps near the hinge bent badly and broke loose. Not fixable.

i bought this item and it works good on small logs but if you get one thats hard wood, well i broke the welds and im 120 lb girl. but i did drill a hole threw it and put in a solid long shaft threw and it works again. and it seems to be stronger. it will give you a work out but it helps if you cant swing an ax and thats one thing i cant do so this little thing did help me out on small logs

This is a good product. I need to split a limited number of logs each year. Because this has no hydraulic parts, there are no leaks. It works well for logs 18 inches and shorter. Almost No assembly required. Simple to use, put the log in, push the arm against the log and pump your foot. Occasionally tap the arm with your foot. Presto....split log. I would recommend this log splitter to anyone.

Bryan M
Topeka, Kansas

Cherry logs. Average of 7-10 inches long, and diamter or 4-7. Perfect cylinders. On the 5th log, the flat brackets that secure log wedge piece to frame that stays on ground. Popped off both brackets at the same time. You canT put back on , run screws back through or any fixable remedy. It simply is ruined . Being that I didn't push the envelope to max log sizes makes this all the more disappointing. Now, if I had an 18 inch Gatlinburg Taffy log, it would be in big trouble. Sadly disappointed. will try one more to see if I got a lemon.

OK, it just came today and here's the email I got at work from my wife:

So, the log splitter came today, and, of course, I immediately opened it up, put
it together, and tried it out. Let me tell you, that thing is pretty goddamn
amazing!!! I know the reviews you read were good, but I never would have
believed how easy it really is! What a great find--good job!

Love you!

What can I say. When I got home I did say I hope it holds up and lasts awhile, and my wife said if it stops working in three months we're buying another.