The market is different around here. A log splitter that goes for $1299 new in the store will be $1250 used. No point buying used. I priced out building my own, and was up to the cost of a new splitter just in hydraulic parts, before spec'ing in steel or turning on my welder.
I have a buddy who will loan me his 37 ton splitter any time I want to go get it, as long as I set it back up to store before I bring it back. Drain the gas, run it dry, fog the cylinder, etc. If I get into big stuff, game on. I told him if he ever wants to sell it, let me make him an offer on it first.
Between the expensive used market and open access to a 37 ton splitter, I rolled the dice on a $300 5 ton 120v electric splitter, and have been pleasantly surprised! Not perfect, but entirely sufficient for what I do. Almost ten cords with it split now, and less than 10pcs that it wouldn't split. 100% would do again. Only maintenance it's needed is a couple fluid changes.
