Choosing The Right Chainsaw Size For Milling Lumbe (Guide)
Chainsaw milling involves using a chainsaw to cut logs into lumber. It is an affordable way to mill your own lumber at home without huge equipment costs. However, you need the right size chainsaw to handle milling logs efficiently and safely.
When choosing a chainsaw for milling, the main factors to consider are bar length, engine power, and weight. This guide will walk you through the key considerations to help you select the optimal chainsaw size for your milling projects. We’ll also provide tips on chainsaw maintenance, chains, safety gear, and techniques to help you get set up for success.
How Big of a Log Do You Want to Mill?
The first step is determining the maximum log diameter you plan to cut. The general rule of thumb is to choose a chainsaw with at least 3-4 inches of additional bar length on each side of the log. This prevents the tip of the bar from getting pinched in the cut.
For example, if you want to mill a 20 inch diameter log, you would need a 28-32 inch bar length to allow enough clearance.
Here are common bar length recommendations based on log diameters:
- 10-14 inch logs – 18-20 inch bar
- 16-20 inch logs – 28-32 inch bar
- 20-24 inch logs – 32-36 inch bar
- 24-30 inch logs – 36-42 inch bar
- 30-36 inch logs – 42-48 inch bar
Keep in mind most chainsaw mills have a capacity between 28-36 inches. So if taking on bigger logs, you may need a rail system.
Chainsaw Power Requirements
Once you know the bar length needed, the next key specification is engine power. Milling is very demanding on a chainsaw, so you need adequate engine displacement and horsepower.
The general recommendation is at least 4-5 horsepower per inch of bar length. This means if you have a 32 inch bar, you would need around a 128-160cc (4-5 hp) engine.
Here are the minimum power specs based on bar length:
- Up to 20 inch bar – 55-65cc (3 hp) engine
- 20-28 inch bar – 65-85cc (4 hp)
- 30-36 inch bar – 85-100cc (5 hp)
- 36-42 inch bar – 100cc+ (6 hp+)
While you can technically mill small logs with a 50-60cc saw, it will be underpowered and you’ll experience slower cutting times.
Aim for 20% more power than the recommendations to allow a safety buffer and prevent overworking the engine. This will prolong the life of your chainsaw.
Chainsaw Weight Considerations
You also need to consider the weight of the chainsaw when milling for extended periods. Chainsaws in the power range for milling generally weigh 15-25 lbs depending on bar length.
Heavier saws reduce fatigue by allowing the weight to do more work. But if too heavy, they can increase fatigue from maneuvering the saw.
Here are tips on chainsaw weight based on usage:
- For occasional milling, choose a lighter saw around 15-18 lbs. This reduces fatigue from lifting and maneuvering.
- For frequent milling, choose a mid-weight saw around 18-22 lbs. Still portable but with enough mass to make cuts easier.
- For full-time milling, choose a heavyweight saw 22 lbs+. The extra weight makes sustained cuts much less tiring.
Also consider an auxiliary handle for better control and weight distribution. Reduced-vibration handles and mounts further decrease fatigue.
Additional Chainsaw Features
Here are other helpful features to have when selecting a milling chainsaw:
- Decompression valve – Makes starting easier by reducing cylinder compression
- Centrifugal clutch – Prevents chain movement at idle speeds for safer starting
- Chain brake – Stops the chain immediately if kickback occurs
- Chain tensioner – Allows adjusting chain tension easily without tools
- Large starter grip – Improves grip for pulling force required to start bigger engines
Chainsaw Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance is crucial when chainsaw milling to ensure safe and reliable operation. Here are key maintenance tips:
Sharpening: Chains dull quickly during milling. File teeth every 1-2 hours of use. Maintain 30 degree top plate filing angle.
Depth gauges: Lower depth gauges every 5 sharpenings so cutters protrude optimally into wood.
Bar maintenance: Frequently clean bar groove to prevent buildup. Lubricate nose sprocket regularly. Flip bar periodically to evenly distribute wear.
Air filter: Clean after each use. Replace regularly. Use heavy duty filter designed for dusty conditions.
Fuel filters: Replace fuel filters annually or if fuel flow becomes restricted.
Spark plug: Set spark plug gap to 0.020-0.030 inches. Replace after 100 hours of runtime.
Chain tension: Check tension frequently as chains stretch over time. Adjust as needed to maximize cutting efficiency.
Chain lubrication: Use high quality bar & chain oil for lubrication. Check oil tank level before each use.
Cooling system: Clean cooling fins on cylinder to prevent overheating. Clogged fins cause damage.
Storage: Empty the fuel and run the engine dry before storing to prevent gumming. Fully charge the battery before storage.
Chainsaw Chain Types
Using the right chainsaw chain is also critical for efficient milling. Here are top options:
Ripping chains: Designed for milling with rakers filed down to be more aggressive. Cut fast but wear bars quicker.
Skip tooth chains: Alternating cutters removed to reduce cutting resistance. Best for dirty/sandy conditions.
Full comp chisel chains: All-around chain good for both cross-cutting and some milling. Need more frequent sharpening.
Safety chains: Have built-in depth limiters to prevent extreme kickback. Not ideal for milling.
For softer woods, full comp chisel provides the fastest cut. For harder woods, go for a ripping chain. Always use chains designed for your bar length.
Safety Gear
Chainsaw milling poses significant kickback risks. Wearing proper safety equipment minimizes injury potential.
Must-have gear includes:
- Chainsaw chaps – Protect legs if hit by the moving chain
- Steel-toe boots – Prevent foot injuries if the log shifts
- Gloves – Improve grip and protect hands from debris
- Helmet – Shields face and neck from sawdust and wood chips
- Hearing and eye protection – Reduces noise and keeps eyes safe from flying chips
- First aid kit – Treats injuries until medical treatment can be accessed
- Fire extinguisher – Puts out electrical or debris fires quickly
Also avoid loose clothing and jewelry that could get caught in moving parts. Have someone nearby as a safety precaution.
Chainsaw Milling Techniques
Using proper technique maximizes lumber quality and productivity while reducing injury risks. Here are top tips:
Prepare logs: Remove limbs/bark. Cut off cracked or extremely knotty sections. Square log ends.
Plan cuts: Visualize how the log will break down for highest lumber value. Mark cut lines.
Stabilize log: Use plank supports, log dogs, or milling attachments to steady log. Prevent spinning.
Begin cuts gently: Ease into the cut to prevent sudden chain grabbing or kickback.
Use light pressure: Let the chainsaw do the work. Excess pressure forces dulls chains.
Advance slowly: Go at a pace that allows chips to clear and keeps chain cool.
Make relief cuts: Use periodic plunge cuts or jacks to prevent pinching.
Watch for kickback: Be alert to situations increasing kickback risks like knots.
Check often for square: Periodically confirm corners are still at 90 degrees to maximize board width.
Watch bar/chain temp: Stop to allow cooling if overheating. Running hot damages chains.
With practice, you’ll get a feel for reading lumber tension and making adjustments on the fly. Having an experienced mentor speeds the learning curve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size chainsaw is best for milling small logs?
For logs under 16 inches in diameter, a 55-65cc chainsaw with an 18-20 inch bar length provides a good balance of power and maneuverability. This covers most beginner milling needs.
Can you use a electric chainsaw for milling?
While gasoline chainsaws are preferred for heavy-duty milling, high powered electric chainsaws with guide bars over 16 inches can handle occasional small log milling. They provide quieter operation but limited runtime per charge. Gas chainsaws have more torque and chain speed better suited for milling.
What are signs my chainsaw is underpowered for milling?
Indications your chainsaw is underpowered include the chain feeling loose even when properly tensioned, the saw bogging down in the cut rather than advancing smoothly, the chain stopping when moderate pressure is applied, and smoke coming from a overloaded clutch or engine.
How much lumber can I mill per chainsaw hour?
On average, you can expect to mill around 25-30 board feet of lumber per hour with a properly sized chainsaw and sharp chain. So milling a 12 foot log 16 inches in diameter would take 4-5 hours total. Smaller logs are faster while larger diameters are slower.
What are best woods for beginner chainsaw milling?
The best species to practice milling with are relatively soft woods like pine, spruce, aspen and cottonwood. Their low density makes cutting easier for the engine and chain while reducing binding. This allows focusing on technique rather than wrestling the chainsaw through extremely hard woods.
We hope this guide has provided you a strong starting point for selecting an optimal chainsaw for your milling operations. Remember to invest in high quality protective gear, maintain your saw meticulously, and prioritize safety with every cut.
With responsible practices and patience in developing your skills, you’ll be milling beautiful lumber in no time. Let us know if you have any other questions!
