So, you’re in the market for a log jack? Get excited, because log jacks (also called log lifters or timberjacks) are simple tools, but they make a world of difference when you’re cutting up logs.
The tricky thing about log jacks is that there are many options, and some of them are really crappy tools, with low-quality materials or poor design. In this article, I’ll help you skip the garbage and get straight to the best log jack for you. Let’s get started!
(FYI: I get commissions on qualifying purchases through some of the links below, at no additional cost to you. So if this guide is helpful, please use my links, thanks!)
Best Log Jacks on the Market
Before going any farther, let me cut to the chase. If you want to skip the details and just get the best log jack on the market, then go with the Woodchuck 48″ Timberjack.
I’ve personally used a Woodchuck log jack, and can tell you that they are effective, durable, and well designed. It will get the job done and should last you for many years.
If you’d like to dig into the details, and see a few alternatives, then keep reading. We’ll get there next.
1. Top Pick: Woodchuck 48″ Timberjack
Highlights
- 48″ handle lifts logs up to 20″ wide
- Durable aircraft aluminum and stainless steel materials
- Dual foot prevents the handle from digging into the ground
- Made in the USA
- Manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty
Description
If you need a log jack but aren’t sure what to choose, just get this one. I’ve used a Woodchuck log jack several times, and it’s the perfect tool for the job.
This Woodchuck timberjack can handle logs up to 20 inches in diameter, which is the largest capacity of any log jack on this list (by far). It’s also made of durable stainless steel and an aluminum alloy that is also used in the construction of aircraft.
It’s super durable, and you can expect it to last through hard use. But if you somehow end up with a defective Woodchuck, the manufacturer also backs them with their lifetime warranty.
One other unique feature of Woodchuck’s log jack is the dual foot. Most log jacks are only going to have one foot on the back-side, and then the handle leans on the ground as the second support. Having that second foot means that you don’t have to bend down as far to lift the handle.
There aren’t many downsides to this Woodchuck log jack in my opinion, however, it’s a very simple tool. If you’re into gadgets with a variety of functions, then you should also check-out the LogOX 3-in-1 tool below.
In conclusion, the Woodchuck Timberjack is my #1 pick for best log jack, and if I was going to buy a new one today I’d probably get this one. Here’s a link to the Woodchuck Timberjack on Amazon
2. Runner-up: LogOX 3-in-1 Tool
Highlights
- 38″ handle lifts logs up to 12″ wide
- Can convert to 3 forestry tools: Log jack, log carrier, or cant hook
- Made in the USA
- Patented Design
- Made of durable steel frame
Description
If you want more functionality than a standard log-lifter, or if you just like cool gadgets, then the LogOx 3-in-1 tool might be for you. By moving a couple of pieces around, you can convert this tool into any of these 3 tools:
- A log lifter
- A cant hook
- A log carrier
The LogOx is a great value, in terms of cash and space. If you need access to a variety of tools, but you can only afford to buy (or carry) one, then it’s hard to go wrong with the LogOX. To see how it works, check out this video from the manufacturer:
One other thing that’s interesting about the LogOX multi-tool, is that you can get additional attachments for it. For example, they have one that will convert it into a pickaroon.
In my mind there are 2 main downsides to the LogOX multi-tool. First, if you only need a log lifter and won’t use the other functions, then it’s better to just go with the Woodchuck above. Plus, it could get a little annoying to convert the tool, if you switch between functions frequently.
Overall though, I think this LogOx is a great value, and a really cool approach to forestry tools. If you like gadgets, I think you’ll be happy with this one. You can get the LogOx on Amazon here.
3. Budget Pick: Ironton Timberjack
Pros
- 48″ handle lifts logs up to 10″ wide
- Nice curved hardwood handle
- Durable steel hook
- Good value for a log jack
- The metal jack foot is removable
Description
The Ironton Timberjack is a good option if you are tight on cash, or if you have a strong preference for a wooden handle. If that’s your situation, then you’ll probably be happy with the Ironton Timberjack.
However, for most people, I think the Woodchuck Timberjack or LogOx above will be a better option. With that said, let’s cover some of the nice features of the Ironton Timberjack.
First, this is my budget pick, and the price tag on this tool is significantly less than the other tools above (as of Feb 4th, 2020).
It’s also the only log jack on this list with a wooden handle. I’m typically a fan of high-quality wood-handled tools. For example, I’ve listed a couple of incredible wooden-handled axes over on my recommended tools page.
One of the nice things about the wooden handle on this Ironton log jack is that it’s been shaped to have a bit of an ergonomic curve to it. I think this will feel a bit nicer on the hands during extended use, compared with the metal handled tools above.
Although wooden handles are great, they typically don’t last as long as hearty metal materials. So I’d expect this tool to have a shorter lifespan than the other two above.
Overall, this Ironton Timberjack seems like a solid tool, particularly if you’re looking for an affordable option or something with a wooden handle. You can find it here on Amazon.
What to Look For in a Log Jack
When you’re looking for a quality log jack, there’s a couple of things to keep in mind, that will help you to make an informed purchasing decision. Let’s dive into those here:
1. Reputable Brand
The first thing I think about when looking at log jacks is the brand. I know, that probably seems a bit old-fashioned, but for log jacks the manufacturer really matters.
There are a handful of long-standing and respected manufacturers, and then there’s a bunch of cheaper knock-offs that fall short on quality. Woodchuck is one of those brands my family has been using for years.
I personally prefer to spend a little extra money upfront to buy stuff that will last years (or even decades). This strategy has worked well for me, and I’ve probably actually saved money in the long run.
2. Handle Length / Capacity
The second thing to look for in a log jack is more tactical. You’ll want to make sure that the log jack you get, can handle the size of log that you plan to lift and cut.
A given timberjack will have a rating for the maximum log diameter it can handle. For example, the Woodchuck is rated for up to 20-inch diameter logs. This maximum diameter is influenced by the size/shape of the hook, and the space between the hook and the end of the log jack.
The length of the handle is also important because that will determine the amount of leverage you have to roll and lift logs with the timberjack. Longer handles will have more leverage vs shorter handles, but obviously there’s an upper limit.
3. Good Material
Another thing to think about is the type of material that the log jack is made out of. The primary options are steel, aluminum, and wood. All of these can be good options, as long as you get quality within that category.
For example, some steel tools are stronger than other steel tools. There can be a lot of reasons for this: The source/quality of the steel, the method with which the steel is forged, and the overall design of the tool.
It can be really difficult to distinguish between different levels of steel quality, just by looking at it. As a result, I find that sticking to good brands (e.g. point 1 above), is one of the best methods to ensure your tools are being made of good material.
4. Ergonomics
If you intend to cut firewood or clear trees for long hours, then ergonomics will become a helpful consideration. A good log jack should make your work more efficient, and reduce the strain on your body.
In particular, you should consider how far you have to bend when using a log jack. Some log jacks have dual feet (like the Woodchuck above), which means you don’t have to bend over as far to turn a log.
In addition, think about the design of the handle, and how it will feel in your hands after long use. For example, some people might prefer a curved wooden handle (like the Ironton above) to steel/aluminum. Or, if you’re comparing metal tools, some will have superior padding than others.
5. Additional Features
Lastly, I wanted to mention additional features that might be incorporated in your log jack. Most, if not all, log jacks can also act as cant hooks. But in addition to those two basic functions, some log jacks have additional features.
The perfect example of this is the LogOX 3-in-1 tool above, which can also convert into a log carrier. In addition to that 3rd function, you can buy additional attachments which allow the LogOX to be converted into other related tools (like a pickaroon).
So, if you like the idea of having a multi-purpose “swiss army knife” type tool, then you should consider the overall features of a given log jack before making your final decision.
The final topic we’ll cover in this article is how to actually use your new log jack. Let’s dive in.
How to Use a Log Jack
Using a log jack is pretty straightforward, but if you haven’t used one before, then a quick run-through will be helpful for you to get the right technique.
I found the below video demonstration helpful:
So the basic steps for operating a log jack are as follows:
1. Select and prepare the log
Before you cut your log into chunks, you’ll need to start with a log that can be rolled onto your timberjack. So, you’ll need to first make sure that the log is within the maximum recommended diameter limits for your log jack.
Once you’ve got a log with an appropriate diameter, you should also take a look at the overall length of the log, to estimate if you can reasonably expect to roll it. If the log is too long, you might have to cut it into a few large sections before using the log jack.
Finally, it’s also a good idea to clear the branches off of the base of the log, to prevent them from getting in the way. This will also make it easier and safer to use your chainsaw, once you do have the log up on your log jack.
2. Lodge the hook
Once your log is ready, slide the hook over the log and extend the handle to about a 60-degree angle from the ground. Pull the handle towards yourself slightly, and make sure that the and of the log jack is firmly planted on the ground.
Next, check to make sure that the hook is digging into the wood. If it is, then you should be able to feel the whole log move by slightly pulling the handle towards you.
Once you’ve confirmed that the end of the log jack is planted on the ground, and the hook is starting to dig into the wood, then grab the handle with both hands. Then, take a step backward, and pull/push the handle towards the ground.
Be careful to keep your feet/hands out from under the log, and stand to the side of the handle so you don’t accidentally hit yourself with the log jack. Once you’ve done this, the log should be sitting elevated on the log jack.
3. Cut the log
Now that you have your log elevated, you can begin cutting it into chunks. If one side of the log is still on the ground, then just cut chunks off of the side that is elevated. This helps you to avoid pinching your chainsaw.
If both sides are elevated, you can cut from both sides. Just be mindful of how the log is balanced, and be careful while you cut, because the position of the log can shift as some of its weight is removed with each chunk.
Also be sure to maintain a safe distance between your chainsaw and the log jack, so that you don’t accidentally hit it. If you’d like to learn more about this step, then check out our article on how to cut logs with a chainsaw.
4. Remove jack and repeat
Once you’ve cut all of the chunks that you can safely remove from your log, then lift the handle of the log jack upward, and away from you, to dump the log away from you.
Then, depending on if you have more chunks to cut from your first log, either reposition the log jack on your existing log, or start fresh with a new log. That’s pretty much all there is to it!
Related Questions
How many pieces of firewood are in a cord?
A full cord of wood typically contains 600-800 pieces of split firewood, which translates into 200-275 pieces in a face cord (or rick). A cord is measured by the total volume of wood, so the number of pieces will change depending on the type of wood and how it is split.
Read my article Pieces of Wood in a Cord: 6 Firewood FAQs to learn more.
What is the most powerful chainsaw on the market?
The most powerful chainsaw on the market is the Stihl MS 880 Magnum, which is rated at 121.6 CC displacement and 8.6 horsepower. The close runner-up, is the Husqvarna 3120 XP, with a displacement of 118.8 CC and 8.31 horsepower.
