CountyLine 40-Ton Log Splitter – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-04-03 – A consumer required emergency department treatment after a CountyLine 40-Ton Log Splitter manufactured by Tractor Supply Company unexpectedly released its spring-loaded jack stand, crushing the operator's hand. The incident, classified as a crush hazard, was reported to the CPSC SaferProducts database, highlighting a design defect that forced the operator to manually support the heavy tongue while operating a dangerous lever mechanism.

Product Details

Brand Name: CountyLine
Manufacturer: Tractor Supply Company
Model: 40-Ton Log Splitter
Retailer: Tractor Supply Company (Saline, MI Location)
Incident Report Number: 5948398
Severity Type Name: Emergency Department Treatment Received
Severity Type ID: 9

Incident Overview

On February 9, 2026, a consumer attempted to hitch the CountyLine 40-Ton Log Splitter to a vehicle. The unit, weighing 781 pounds, was equipped with a factory-installed spring-loaded jack stand. According to the CPSC incident report (ID 5948398), the design required the operator to manually release a lever while simultaneously supporting the full weight of the tongue to prevent it from crashing to the ground. During this maneuver, the spring-loaded mechanism released with extreme force, trapping and crushing the consumer's hand between the stand and the frame. The force caused the consumer to lose grip, and the falling unit struck their leg.

The consumer was transported to the emergency room, where treatment included medication, wound cleaning, x-rays, surgery, stitches, and ongoing care for loss of the fingernail and nerve damage. The reporter described the CountyLine 40-ton log splitter's jack stand as "unconventional" and "inherently dangerous," contrasting it with industry-standard swivel or stationary jacks that have been used safely for decades. Those standard designs allow a user to mechanically raise and lower a coupler onto a hitch without the need to simultaneously support the tongue weight. The reporter stated that the splitter was used as intended and that the failure occurred during normal hitching operations.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The spring-loaded jack stand can release with extreme force during hitching, trapping body parts between the stand and frame. This creates a crush hazard capable of causing fractures, severe lacerations, nerve damage, and amputation, as demonstrated by the reported injuries requiring surgery and stitches.

Who Might Be Affected: Any operator attempting to hitch or unhitch the log splitter is at risk. The 781-pound weight of the unit means that if the operator loses control, the falling equipment can strike the user or bystanders, causing additional blunt-force trauma.

Warning Signs: The design itself is the warning: unlike standard jacks that operate with a simple crank or pin, this spring-loaded mechanism requires the operator to manually support the tongue weight while releasing a lever. Any hesitation or loss of grip can trigger unexpected release.

Environmental Triggers: The risk is present in any hitching scenario, but factors such as uneven ground, poor lighting, fatigue, or wet conditions can increase the likelihood of losing grip or misjudging the lever release. The mechanism's spring tension does not compensate for environmental variables.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: Cease all use of the CountyLine 40-Ton Log Splitter until the jack stand issue can be safely addressed. Do not attempt to hitch or move the unit.
Preserve the Product: Keep the log splitter in its current condition, including all components, packaging, and any documentation. Do not modify or repair the jack stand, as this evidence may be critical for future investigation.
Document the Incident: Take photographs of the jack stand, the area of injury, and the overall setup. Write down a detailed account of what happened, including the date, time, and sequence of events.
Seek Medical Attention: If you have suffered any crush injury, even if symptoms seem minor, see a medical professional immediately. Nerve damage and internal injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Report to the CPSC: File a report on SaferProducts.gov with details of your incident. This helps regulators identify patterns and take action.
Check for Recalls: Monitor CPSC.gov and Tractor Supply Company's website for any recall or safety notice regarding the CountyLine 40-Ton Log Splitter.

Consumers who have suffered injury or property damage from this product may wish to speak with a product liability attorney to understand their legal options.

Manufacturer's Response

The manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.

Legal Help Available

H Law Group is a California product liability law firm representing individuals injured by defective products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free consultations to discuss your situation and explore your options. If you or a loved one was injured by CountyLine 40-Ton Log Splitter or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.