The Boss Industrial ES7T20 is our most recommended log splitter – and also one of the most popular on the market. Fairly small but with a good power, it splits even large logs easily. Also it’s one of the few electric units with a one-handed operation.
Pros:
- Solid power
- Compact
- One-handed operation
Cons:
- Quite low to the ground
Key specifications:
- Splitting force: 7 tons
- Operation: one-handed
- Max log length: 20.5″
Compact Splitter With a Solid Power
The Boss Industrial ES7T20 comes fully assembled, you just screw in the operator handle and you are ready to go.
It’s an electric unit so you would need an outlet nearby or an extension cord, users mentioned a 12 gauge 50ft one works fine. On the other hand you don’t have to think about fuel, you can use it both outdoors and indoors and it’s also considerably less noisy (good news for your neighbors).
We must say for a unit this small it offers a surprisingly high power. Of course it’s not a top heavy-duty machine (its splitting force is 7 tons) but it can deal with 10" wide logs (and even wider) easily.
It just struggles a bit with large and very knotty wood – the engine can get stuck and you have to shut it off and turn it on again.
Each cut (with the ram return) takes about 10-18 seconds so even larger piles of wood are manageable without problems.
Easy Operation But Low to the Ground
The frame is sturdy, the built-in side rails keep the logs stable and you can even help stabilize them with your hand – the operation is one-handed and very simple, users really like that.
Probably the only disadvantage of the ES7T20 (and all other compact splitters) is that it is quite low to the ground. Yes, you don’t have to raise the logs that high – however, you have to constantly bend over or work on your hands and knees. So many people build a small elevated platform for it or place it on a trailer to achieve a more comfortable working height.
Storage and Manipulation
Thanks to the compact size, the storage is easy – it can stand up straight after you remove the handle and takes very little space. You can haul it around on those two wheels, it’s not a big deal for men (but gets slightly worse on grass or uneven terrain), for a woman it’s probably too heavy.
Most customers were really happy with the purchase and reported the unit works great, only one or two experienced some problems and had to opt for a refund.
Conclusion: If you want a quality log splitter for an occasional use, look no further. The Boss Industrial ES7T20 works very well, it’s compact but still powerful, its only problem is the low profile, but in case it bothers you, you can always raise it on some elevated platform. We highly recommend it.
>> Read more or buy the Boss Industrial ES7T20 here
Specifications:
- Brand: Boss Industrial
- Type: Electric
- Weight: 106 lbs
- Splitting force: 7 tons
- Max log diameter: 10″
- Max log length: 20.5″
- Cycle time (approx.): 10-18 seconds
- Operation: one-handed
- Warranty: 2-year residential
Frequently asked questions:
Can it split logs that have more than 10″ in diameter?
Yes, many users reported splitting even 16-17″ pieces.
Which power cord should be used?
A 12 gauge 50ft one works perfectly.
What about the hydraulic oil?
Most reviewers said it comes full of fluid. But if you still need some, get for example this one.
Will it work in a vertical position?
No, it’s not designed for that.