Fair 
The Powerhouse XM-380 is a decent electric log splitter. It’s easy to use and provides enough power but unfortunately it also comes with several disadvantages and quality issues.
Pros:
- Solid power
- Compact
Cons:
- Bad manual
- Guide rails can bend
- Quite low to the ground
- Can tip over during towing
Key specifications:
- Splitting force: 7 tons
- Operation: one or two-handed
- Max log length: 20.5″
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Easy to Use but Bad Manual
The Powerhouse XM-380 is easy to use and requires only very little assembly. However, most users criticized the user manual that it is just terrible – poorly translated, not helpful and with bad diagrams.
It’s an electric unit so you would have to use an extension cord unless the outlet is really close. However, compared to gas splitters, you can use it both outdoors and indoors, it isn’t that loud and you also don’t have to use any fuel.
Solid Power
It offers a solid splitting force of 7 tons and most users reported it has plenty of power, only a few were disappointed and mentioned problems with splitting hard wood or large logs. The cycle time is fairly good – between 11-18 seconds.
On the other hand, many users complained the guide rails that support the logs are not particularly durable and bend easy. Also the splitting head could have been a bit longer, sometimes it’s necessary to finish the splitting by hands – but you can solve this issue by placing a spacer in front of the ram.
Operation and Moving Around
The Powerhouse splitter uses a 2-handed operation which means increased safety but most users just don’t like it. Fortunately it’s possible to operate both controls with just one hand if you don’t install the shield that surrounds them.
The frame sits fairly low to the ground but that’s a common issues of most electric splitters – so you can just use an elevated platform or a trailer if you prefer to work higher and avoid bending you back all the time.
Moving it around is not too difficult, the wheels are small but work well on a smooth surface – the only problem is they are too close to each other so the machine can tip over on uneven surface.
Conclusion: The Powerhouse XM-380 is not a bad log splitter but when you compare it to other models, there are just too many disadvantages. So we would rather recommend you our favorite unit – the Boss Industrial ES7T20 which offers a similar power but also no headaches when dealing with the useless manual or bent guide rails for example.
>> Read more or buy the Powerhouse XM-380 here
Specifications:
- Brand: Powerhouse
- Type: Electric
- Weight: 104 lbs
- Splitting force: 7 tons
- Max log diameter: 12″
- Max log length: 20.5″
- Cycle time (approx.): 11-18 seconds
- Operation: one or two-handed
- Warranty: 1-year limited
Frequently asked questions:
How to assemble it?
Show Video
How large logs can it split?
It splits logs up to 12" in diameter easily and several users claimed dealing even with a lot larger pieces.
Will it work in a vertical position?
No, it’s not designed for that.
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