Abstract: A log peeler comprises a log peeling knife assembly 10 attached to a pulling cable 12, the pulling cable 12 being reeved around a powered cable drum 14. The pulling cable is attached at each end of the knife assembly so that the knife assembly will be pulled straight along a longitudinal line perpendicular to the orientation of the knife assembly. The powered cable drum 14 may be an engine or motor driven winch, where the engine or motor is an integral part of the assembly that includes the cable drum. The cable drum 14 is powered by a portable and detachable engine, such as a chain saw assembly 16. A remote control 82 may be located at or near the knife assembly so that the operator can engage or disengage the powered drum, as by closing or opening the chain saw trigger 17 through the action of a controller mechanism 84.