Presume this is the statement you are referring to: "I have been using the Artisan 20" splitter I picked up this spring. The blade might be 20" but there is a guide bar in front of the blade that restricts the largest piece at 17&3/4"."
I had read this post before I ordered the splitter and when I spoke with Jerry at Artisan I asked him about it. He explained that you lift up the guide bar and place the leather beneath it. I could easily see how someone could mistake the guide bar as a feeding chute for the maximum leather width as many older machines are thus constructed.
I'm located in Indiana, USA, but still the shipping was very swift. I've ordered small items from California that took much longer. If there is a way for you to get the machine shipped to you I believe you would like it. I am very impressed. I am presently trying to figure out how to strop the blade as Jerry recommended. I have a post asking for help but no replies. I may call Jerry and ask him for a method. The blade is so big that it may be difficult. I'm considering some sort of jig to help with the process. I have several types of strops, big and small.