What to Look for in a Chainsaw Mill

 When you have decided to invest in a chainsaw mill there are a few things to consider. As well as making sure any Alaskan mill, Australia found is compatible with the chainsaw you have you should think about things like cutting depth, capacity and so on. It is true that most mills are pretty universal but it does not hurt to make sure before you buy that it will meet your needs and it is something you can use!

Understanding cutting capacity

In most cases, you can adjust the width of chainsaw mills but always keep in mind that no mill can be expanded further than the bar of the chainsaw. Also, the Alaskan mill rails or any mill’s rails also take up some of that width. Depending on the mill type it might be just 2 inches but it could be as many as 8 inches. So whatever the stated capacity for cutting is, the actual limit will be smaller. Most mills have a bar length that falls between 14 and 36 inches but if you want something more there are special heavy-duty mills.

Depth of cutting

Usually again the depth you can cut is adjustable, but that range changes from one brand to another. A good versatile mill will cut a depth from half an inch to 12 inches. If you are going to be working with larger logs you can chainsaw mills that cut depths of 13 inches or more, you just have to focus your search on that as one of the features you require.

Commonly asked questions

Q1. What size chainsaw should I use with a mill?

A1. The process of milling lumber is hard work and slow work. You need something with enough power and generally, that means something that is gas not electric. The engine should be at least 50cc but larger logs mean that would need to be more. The size of the bar depends on the tree size you are cutting but usually at least 20 inches, preferably 24 inches to have more flexibility.

Q2. How do you operate a chainsaw mill?

A2. Different chainsaw mills have different configurations but once you have learned the basics you should adapt more easily. There is a steel frame with portable chain sawmill that attach to your chainsaw bar. Some come with a bracket called a slabbing rail that sits on top as you mill, but some do not so you might have to buy one or make one. Secure the slabbing rail to the log, attach the chainsaw mill to the bar and carefully and slowly cut down the log lengthways. With the first layer done you can put the slabbing rails to one side and use the top as the guide for the next cuts.

Q3. When cutting planks with a chainsaw mill how long does it take?

A3. An Alaskan mill Australia and elsewhere is not fast at milling logs. It is a job that takes precision, care and slow precise movements. How long it takes depends on the power of your chainsaw, your experience and skill and the size of the logs. It might take as little as 10 minutes or as much as 25 minutes to make one full cut.