Can’t say anything about the Brave line, never even seen one… But the difference in power between a 22 and 28-ton may not be that great depending on how the two manufactures calculate it, and round it off. Unless you’re planning on going into the firewood selling business, I would think a 22-ton would be more than enough splitter for the typical wood burning Joe. Really, if you learn to “read” the grain, even nasty crotches, a 15-ton will split near anything you ask of it. Keep in mind those tonnage numbers are usually calculated using the peak pressure just before the relief valve opens, only lasts for a couple milliseconds, and really isn’t applied long enough to do any real work. Still, the higher number probably does indicate more overall power… but the question is… Do you need it, and is it worth the extra weight and expense?
Personally, I have no use for a vertical splitter. A horizontal/vertical convertible just adds extra weight and (usually) requires longer hydraulic hoses. Besides, I don’t like the wedge mounted on the ram… seems completely back-azz-wards to me. If I was shopping for a new splitter, the ability to “go vertical” wouldn’t even be on my comparison list… and tonnage rating would be well to the bottom of the list. My top three priorities would be weight, size and cycle time… not necessarily in that order. I would want the lightest, smallest, fastest splitter (on balance) that I could find in my price range… most likely that would be a horizontal only, with a stationary wedge. And, because I’m not paying for the vertical option, log strippers, longer hoses, and whatnot, I’d likely get more tonnage, at less weight, for my dollar. I would pony-up the extra cash for auto-cycle though, ‘cause that would be the next priority on my list. Engine brand? Probably not a deal breaker… even the cheap Chinese engines are pretty reliable these days if maintained properly. Besides, engines are hot-swappable, and the knock-offs are down-right cheap.