OK. First, I don't have the time nor the knowledge of hydraulics to tackle building my own splitter. While that would be a fun project, it's not something I want to tackle right now.
With that said, I'm in the market for a gas powered towable splitter so I don't have to rent one any more. We have a log cabin in the mountains, a fire ring in the yard, and a small fire place that I'd like to keep up with and hand splitting just doesn't appeal to me anymore. Also plan on adding a wood stove to the shop eventually.
I really only have rental experience with a horizontal splitter of unknown tonnage/make/etc. as it's an old workhorse that really does well in just about any wood we've thrown at it. from gnarly knotted cherry, maple, etc. to large rounds of spruce, fir, etc..
we have a large number of trees on our property, mainly fir, but some maple and fruit trees as well. plus we have access to other wood sources as my father manages private land for logging for a living and other family connections as well. So I need something that has the gumption to handle just about anything we could throw at it.
Experience and suggestions are welcome. I've got no biases or brand requirements. 4 way splitting ability would be a big plus, but not required.
I'd like to keep it under $2000 if possible but could be convinced to go more if the model/options are worth the cost.