On Sat, 23 Jul 2005 16:01:14 +0100, justme
wrote:

I'd like to make a log splitter myself,

Northern Tools sell them fairly cheaply. Powered-pump splitters are
expensive (because the pumps are), hand-pumped splitters are cheap.

Or you could make your own, with a bottle jack (Machine Mart or
similar), some simple steel angle and a stick welder.

If you want a powered splitter, look for a cheap or S/H pump and ram
(try a farm & plant auction).

Personally I prefer a good steel wedge and a maul. There are few tasks
so simple, yet so satisfying, as a good bit of log splitting. Painting
faces on the end may help, or even photocopied portraits of Robert
Kilroy-Silk. Personally autographed Jeffrey Archers are even better.