Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is chainsaw milling worth it?
Yes, chainsaw milling is worth it as it is an efficient and effective tool for converting wood into lumber. Lumber is a valuable raw material that can be used for various purposes.
2. How big of a chainsaw do I need for a chainsaw mill?
For chainsaw milling, it is recommended to use a chainsaw with at least a 70cc engine. Lesser-powered saws may struggle, consume more fuel, and wear out faster. It is also advisable to get a longer bar depending on the capacity of the mill and the saw.
3. Do I need a different chain for a chainsaw mill?
Yes, you may need a different chain for chainsaw milling. Ripping chain, specifically designed for milling logs into wood planks, is recommended. It is different from low profile chain or narrow kerf chain used for standard tasks like pruning.
4. Is there a portable sawmill that uses a chainsaw?
Yes, there are portable sawmills available that utilize a chainsaw. One example is the PortaMill PM14, which can transform a regular chainsaw into a fully capable sawmill. It features a unique throttle actuator that fits all chainsaws and is patented by Norwood.
5. Will a saw mill pay for itself?
A portable sawmill can quickly pay for itself by providing a ready supply of lumber, considering the high cost of lumber. While hiring a company to mill the lumber might generate income, it is not as cost-effective as milling it yourself with a portable sawmill.
6. Do you save money milling your own lumber?
Yes, milling your own lumber can save you a significant amount of money. Instead of cutting down trees and paying for their removal, milling the lumber yourself can save thousands of dollars. However, the savings may vary depending on the property and the value of the trees being milled.
7. What size chainsaw do lumberjacks use?
Professional loggers typically use chainsaws that are 18 to 36 inches long. Larger equipment is often used for larger trees, but it can cause more damage. Smaller chainsaws are easier to control and are ideal for smaller trees.
8. How thin can a chainsaw mill cut?
The Alaskan Mark III Mill, for example, can cut boards as thin as 1/4 inch and as thick as 13 inches. After the first cut, the first slab is removed, and the Edging Mill is used to create a three-sided cant from which dimensional lumber can be cut.
9. Is it cheaper to buy lumber from a sawmill?
Buying lumber directly from a sawmill can be cheaper compared to purchasing from a big box store. Purchasing directly from the mill helps keep prices low and can be a more sustainable option. It also allows for a direct connection with the source of the wood.
Editor's Notes
During our chainsaw mill research, we found 24 chainsaw mill products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 37,628 customer reviews through our big data system to write the chainsaw mills list. We found that most customers choose chainsaw mills with an average price of $48.14.
The chainsaw mills are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of chainsaw mills, including VEVOR, zozen, NEO-TEC, AR-PRO, Granberg. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.