Norwood Sawmill Reviews (5 Pros And Cons)

My Journey with Norwood Sawmills

Let me take you back to a time when I was just beginning to explore the world of sawmills. A good friend of mine, Joe, had recently acquired a Norwood LM29. It was a chilly morning, and as we sat on his porch with steaming cups of coffee, he excitedly pointed out the features and capabilities of his new machine. As a chainsaw technician and someone passionate about woodworking, I was intrigued. This encounter sparked my curiosity and led me down the path of discovering the ins and outs of Norwood Sawmills. I’ll share more about what I found and experienced.

Pros of Norwood Sawmills

1. Customizable Options

Norwood sawmills offer a level of customization that appeals to both novice and seasoned millers. From the basic model, you can add extensions and accessories as your milling knowledge and needs expand. Joe started with a simple setup but quickly realized the benefits of adding track extensions to handle longer logs. Having the ability to adapt your mill as your requirements evolve means you’re not locked into one setup.

Example of Customization:

Imagine you start milling small logs from your backyard trees and, over time, decide to tackle larger timber from nearby forests. With Norwood, you can add a log deck or roller toe boards to assist with handling heavier logs.

2. Durable Construction

The durability of Norwood sawmills is impressive. Constructed with high-quality steel, these machines are built to withstand the test of time and the elements. I remember a particularly fierce storm that hit Joe’s area. Debris was scattered everywhere, and yet, his mill emerged unscathed. That kind of robustness gives you peace of mind, knowing your investment is protected.

Durability in Action:

A fellow lumberjack shared how his Norwood survived being accidentally struck by a falling tree limb during a felling operation. The mill required minimal repairs and continued to operate smoothly.

3. Affordability

Norwood offers competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. This affordability makes them accessible to hobbyists and professionals alike. When I compared different brands, I found that Norwood provides excellent value for the features and capabilities offered. Whether you’re budget-conscious or looking for an entry-level mill, there’s likely a Norwood model that fits your financial plan.

Financial Considerations:

Consider starting with a smaller model if finances are tight. Over time, as your projects grow, you can invest in additional features or even upgrade to a larger mill.

4. User-Friendly Design

A significant advantage of Norwood sawmills is their user-friendly nature. Even if you’re new to milling, the straightforward controls and clear instructions make it easy to get started. I remember Joe being slightly apprehensive at first, but after spending some time with the manual and a few YouTube tutorials, he was up and running.

Ease of Use:

The design is intuitive, allowing even those unfamiliar with machinery to operate it efficiently. I’ve seen beginners quickly become proficient after just a few practice sessions.

5. Portable Models

Norwood’s portable models cater to those who need mobility in their operations. Whether you’re moving between job sites or have limited storage space, these models are designed for easy transport and quick setup. This flexibility is crucial for those milling in remote locations or offering mobile milling services.

Portability Benefits:

I recall assisting a client who needed milling done on-site due to transportation limitations for his logs. The portable Norwood model we used was perfect for the job, saving him time and effort in moving large timber.

Cons of Norwood Sawmills

1. Manual Labor Required

While Norwood sawmills offer great features, they do require manual labor to operate effectively. Unlike fully automated systems, you’ll need to engage physically with the machine. This aspect might be challenging if you’re looking for an experience requiring minimal physical effort.

Labor Intensity:

Operating the mill involves tasks like turning logs manually and adjusting settings frequently based on the wood’s characteristics.

2. Assembly Time

One downside is the time required for assembly. Norwood mills don’t come pre-assembled, so you’ll need to set aside time and possibly enlist help to put everything together correctly.

Assembly Experience:

Joe and I spent an entire weekend assembling his mill. While it was a great bonding experience (and we learned a lot), it required patience and attention to detail.

3. Limited Motor Options

While the motors available with Norwood sawmills are decent, there could be more powerful options for those dealing with particularly dense hardwoods or larger-scale operations.

Motor Limitations:

If you’re consistently working with large or very hard logs, you might find that upgrading or adjusting your motor setup is necessary for optimal performance.

4. Maintenance Needed

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your sawmill in top condition. This includes routine checks on belts, pulleys, and lubrication points.

Maintenance Routine:

I recommend setting up a maintenance schedule based on hours of operation rather than calendar days to ensure consistent performance.

5. Noise Levels

Sawmills are inherently noisy machines, and some Norwood models are no exception. If you’re operating in a residential area or any noise-sensitive environment, this could be an issue.

Noise Considerations:

Using ear protection is essential to mitigate hearing damage over prolonged use periods.

Getting Started with Your Norwood Sawmill

Equipment Requirements

Before diving into using your Norwood sawmill, you’ll want to ensure you have all necessary equipment:

Safety Gear: Goggles, gloves, ear protection
Basic Toolkit: For assembly and adjustments
Chainsaw: For initial cuts
Lubricants: To keep everything running smoothly

Prerequisite Knowledge

While Norwood sawmills are user-friendly, having some basic knowledge will help:

Understanding milling operations
Familiarity with power tools
Awareness of safety precautions

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up

Find a Suitable Location: Ensure the ground is level; uneven surfaces can affect performance.
Unpack Your Sawmill: Lay out all parts; familiarize yourself before assembly.
Assemble the Frame: Follow the manual; having a friend helps immensely.
Install the Motor: Securely attach it; improper installation can lead to vibrations.
Set Up the Track: Align properly; misalignment causes operational issues.
Test Run: Do a dry run; check all components before actual cutting.

Safety First!

Always wear protective gear.
Inspect the sawmill regularly for wear or damage.
Keep children and pets away from the operating area.

Tips & Warnings

Tip: Sharpen blades regularly for cleaner cuts.

Warning: Never operate under the influence of substances affecting judgment.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Cuts aren’t smooth. Solution: Check blade sharpness and alignment.

Problem: Motor overheating. Solution: Ensure ventilation; check for obstructions.

Key Reminders

Routine maintenance is essential.
Customize your setup based on needs.
Engage with online communities for support and advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I perform maintenance?

A: Inspect after every 20 operational hours or monthly.

Q: Can I cut all types of wood?

A: Most types; check motor capacity for hardwoods.

Q: Is investing in extensions worthwhile?

A: Yes, especially if scaling up future operations.

Q: Best way to transport a portable model?

A: Use a trailer designed for heavy equipment for stability.

Using a Norwood sawmill can open many doors in lumber processing. With careful setup and operation, you’ll soon be milling like an expert!