If you’re a woodworker and have been working with wood and chainsaws, you’ll definitely know how important a gear chainsaw mill is.
A super handy tool for those working with large logs of wood! In terms of converting wood into lumber, chainsaw mills are among the most efficient and practical tools. The use of lumber is very wide, due to its versatility. Lumber is certainly suitable for a variety of uses, including firewood and construction.
Chainsaw milling for beginners follows the same steps as that for professionals. No matter whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you can learn using a chainsaw mill in just a few simple steps.
In case you’re concerned about you’ll a specific type of chain for milling, here’s what I’d suggest. The chain I use for milling is a ripping chain. It is possible to cut faster horizontally with the grain by ripping the chain because it has teeth cut at a certain angle. The cut is also smoother with it. The regular chain can be used if you prefer, but a ripping chain will save you time and effort.
We have a chainsaw mill guide ahead, which would help you with learning the steps for using a chainsaw mill. Continue reading and by the end of it, you’ll be able to cut your first log using a chainsaw mill super easily.
The Concept
What is an Alaskan Mill? Don’t get confused! It’s just another name for the Chainsaw mill or Porta Mill or Sawmill.
First of all, you need to know that the amount of time it takes to cut wood varies depending on the type of chainsaw and size. Small chainsaws, for example, take longer to cut a slab than larger ones. It usually takes a chainsaw mill between 10 and 15 minutes to cut a medium-sized log with a large, powerful machine. This ultimately means that chainsaws for milling must be very powerful.
Next, a guide bar will be held within the mill to ensure that it aligns properly with the straight reference edge, for easy parallel cutting. The process is pretty straightforward after you’ve cut the straight edge. By using the first slice mark, you’ll only have to make the subsequent cuts. Simple as that!
You will also need to understand adjustability. Chainsaw mills must have this feature. Different wood pieces cannot be cut to the same measurement. Therefore, you can simply use the adjustability of a quality chainsaw mill. It will make it easier for you to accommodate guide bars of different sizes.
Safety First, Always!
Safety should always be your first concern when working with wood and chainsaws. It can be dangerous to make cuts and slices! But without them, you won’t be able to keep up. The solution is to learn as much as you can about chainsaw practices before you start working with chainsaws practically. And never ignore personal protective equipment.
Safety Equipment to Wear
- A helmet
- Safety goggles
- Hand gloves
- Earmuffs or hearing protection
- Face shield
Tools You’ll Need for Chainsaw Milling
- A chainsaw
- Fuels: oil or gas
- Wedges
- Sawmill
- Measuring tape
- Chainsaw wrench
Steps to Follow When Using a Chainsaw Mill for Cutting Wood
Here are some steps to guide you through the cutting process using a chainsaw mill.
STEP 1 – Starting with a straight edge is a good idea. As a result, the mill can make cuts following the path. You should use a ladder that is well-balanced and rigid. It is nice if you have aluminum ladders. Start and finish at the edge.
STEP 2 – Next step is to ensure that the log is properly positioned. Raising it up is what you need to do now. It will also be helpful if you use some slope down the log length. The results will be consistent by doing so.
Also, remember that gravity is your friend when it comes to having a nice cut. Seamless feed pressure can be obtained if you use gravity.
STEP 3 – It’s time to make your first cut once you’re sure you have a strong setup. The chainsaw should be completely fuelled before use. Now that the mill has been mounted, place it on the ground to begin cutting. Chain brakes should remain on. Just like a dry run, place it on a straight edge.
STEP 4 – If you use an aux oiler at a constant speed, you will get the best results. Put the chain brake off now and use the saw with the wide-open throttle to make a smooth and even cut. Get the mill into the cut and allow the mill to cut on its own.
STEP 5 – Keep pressure to a minimum. It just needs to be flat. It is also important to apply even pressure to mill rails. After you have almost completed one-foot cutting, use a throttle lock in order to maintain maximum power. Now that you have adjusted your grip, you should be able to control the situation better.
STEP 6 – The next step is to cut three to four feet. Once you have reached the spot, use a wedge to help you get further. It now needs to be carefully inserted into the kerf to avoid top slab pinching chains. Continue until you see the results you want.
STEP 7 – As soon as you reach the end, release the throttle lock but do not let the mill get out of your control. Using the chain brake, exit the cut. Now, when you’re all done, allow the mill to cool down.
Pro Tip – Never ever stop the engine immediately when you make a hardcore cut. Be patient and calm with the process.
Things You Need to Learn When Milling Lumber with Chainsaw Mill
Here are some of the things I’ve learned from my experiences and I’m sure these are going to be very helpful to you guys too. Consider some of my tips to get your job done in a better and more professional way.
- Making a homemade chainsaw mill requires choosing the right trees.
- Trees should not be cut where your chainsaw mill or winch can’t reach them.
- Use top sections of lumber, not clear butt ends, when milling lumber.
- Using a chainsaw mill with bucking stands increases safety and reduces fatigue.
You can find some of the best chainsaw mills here.
SOME RELATED READS
Best Chainsaw Chains
Chainsaw Chain Numbers
Chainsaw Chain Direction
How to Use a Chainsaw Mill – FAQs
Conclusion
Chainsaw mills are easy to use. Patience and practice are all you need. It won’t take you long to make pro cuts if you don’t give up!
We hope we’ve been helpful to our readers who have been looking for a beginner guide for using a chainsaw mill to cut wood. Just focus, follow the steps described and you’ll have a great job done!
