Looking for guidence in choosing a log splitter.

[flyfish57]

I recently bought a small timber tract and plan on moving there in May when I retire. The timber consists mainly of pine, cedar, sweet gum, hickory and oak. With most being around 24" in diameter and over 36".
I've been looking and trying to determine what might be the right size without over doing it in both size and price.  Although I would like to have something like a Timber Wolf or Super Splitter I just don't think I could justify the extra cost.   What I've been looking at are log splitters in the 22 to 28 ton range.  I've looked at several brands and the reviews on the splitters.  As, of late I think I've narrowed it down to the Dirty Hand Tools 22 or 28 ton units.  Although I have concerns about the Kohler engines.  I've had Kohler engines long ago and they worked fine and lasted longer than the mower that they were on.  However I hear that they are made in china now and several people are having trouble with them.  However for the most part they receive good reviews.  I know a lot of this is like the Chevy, Dodge, Ford thing.  But, I would like to get the best and most reliable I can for the least amount of money. So, far I've found the 22t for $999.00 and the 28t for $1568.99.
But, before I go out and buy one I was wanting to get some ideas from others that have used them and different ones to give me more things to look at overall.  Such as warranty, service, longevity, parts availability and etc...
I would like to keep it under $2000.00.  But, I wonder if say for example the 28t is worth $600 more than the  22t model.  But, I want to get one big enough to split the wood I have. I figure the Hickory might give the 22 ton a run for the money.  Especially if it's a knotty piece.
So, I would like to see your thought and ideas  pros and cons on any experiences you've had with other models.  I don't want this to be a name bashing though.  I'm just trying to end up with the best for the amount I spend and end up with the right size splitter.

James

[thecfarm]

I myself would go with the bigger one,just for the power of it. Yes,you might not need that much 90% of the time,but when you need it,the extra is there. I have a 27 one and has worked fine for me. I think most tip into a vertical position or has a log lift. That comes in handy.

[stumper]

I have used a 20 ton for 20 years.  If I had to change I would get one that is faster and had a log lift (it sucks to get old).  Yes on occasion I have stopped splitter, but it has been rare.  If it does stop, it is normally stuck.  I just grab the chainsaw and cut a slot to an inch to 2 inches above the wedge and ram, then finish the split.  For the difference in price I could come buying a new small chainsaw 550 XP, or be well on my way to a full size 372 xp or 574 xp.

I would stay clear of the tippers or any splitter that has the wedge on the ram as the wood falls on my feet and in the way.  Other may like them but I hate them.

[isaaccarlson]

Tonnage is a crap shoot with the new ratings.  I built one a few years ago and I improve it every year.  Last year I put a table on it and WOW does that help!  No more bending over to pick up pieces or holding onto the wood to keep it from falling.  Just put it on the table and hit the lever.  I raised my whole splitter up to a comfortable working height and that helps too.  The only things left now is a log lift.  For that I want to use an engine hoist and put a powered cylinder on it and have the whole thing mounted on top of the splitter so I can set rounds on the table.  Some of the stuff I split is 36" and can be quite difficult to handle.  A mini crane arm would be perfect and would be out of the way, where a lift table can only be used on one side and sticks out a bit.