Step-by-Step Instructions On How To Turn Logs Into Lumber With A Chainsaw
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Logs have a round shape and a uneven surface. Most furniture-making businesses prefer lumber with a flat, rectangular surface.
This size allows for better furniture design and precise cuts. This wood type is also available. Our woodworkers can show you how to turn logs into lumber using a chainsaw in just a few steps.
Chopping Logs Into Lumber Using Chainsaws: 3 Steps
There are two methods to turn a log into thick, rectangular lumber. The first is to use a chainsaw mill. The second is to do it manually. This narrative will show you how to cut logs into lumber with a chainsaw.
Make sure you have enough space to chop logs into lumber before you begin. Safety gear, tools, or materials that can be used to protect yourself and others should be collected.
- Steel-toed shoes
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Protection for the ear
- Chainsaw
First, purchase a chainsaw machine. This tool is essential in turning logs into lumber.
This item is inexpensive and doesn’t require a lot of space. This makes the chainsaw a milling machine.
Step 1: Trim The Upper Portion
Before making the first cut on either side, set the chainsaw mill. To help with the texture and irregular surface of the log, you can also use slabbing rails.
You should ensure that the rails are at least twice the length of the log. If the rails are shorter than the log, you can trim it vertically.
Place the log horizontally on a flat surface. Continue cutting until you have a flat surface.
You should choose a width for your cutting. These slabbing rails can be removed once you’re done.
Step 2: Reduce The Lower Portion
Continue making the second cut at lower end of the log. As with the first cut, choose the width at this lower section of the log. Now you have two sides that have flat surfaces and a relatively thick lumber.
Step 3: Continue
Rotate the log at a 90 degree angle for this step. You can repeat the first and second cuts. You now have a rectangular box that is thick with four flat surfaces.
If the lumber is too thick, you can continue the above steps. You will need to cut until you get a piece of flat wood with the desired thickness.
How To Achieve Your Preferred Thickness
Once you have turned your log into lumber you will need to learn how to trim it to the desired thickness. Get a marking instrument and a measuring tool to begin this process.
Mark the lumber along the sides that correspond to your preferred width. Next, cut the lumber to your desired length.
Chainsaws: How To Chop A Log Lengthwise
Before you begin, make sure that you are wearing safety gear. Make sure the log is securely held in place. Also, make sure that bullets are properly lubricated, the blades are clean, sharp, and aligned.
- Before making your first cut, remove the tree branches from the log.
- Keep your feet on the ground and alert.
- You should hold the gas chainsaw in both your left hand and right.
- To avoid sudden jerks, you should not change the position of your saw.
- After using the saw, clean it.
A Chainsaw Is Used To Create Wood Slabs
Especially when they are milled, trimmings can be very valuable. These steps will help you make a wood slab with a chainsaw.
- Before you make the first cut, choose your preferred slab shape.
- To create an oval-shaped slap position it at 45 degrees. To create an oval shape, make two cuts.
- For a rectangle shape, cut both sides.
- Use a marker to determine the depth of your slab.
- Use a chainsaw to cut the marked side.
- To smoothen the slab, use a planer.
Cut Lumber With A Free Hand
You can also start to cut lumber by yourself. These steps will help you do this:
- To raise the log from the ground, place a support underneath it. This can be done by placing a small piece or two of planks underneath the log.
- Measure the desired depth and then use a chainsaw to cut.
- For trimming, use the front end of the chainsaw.
- Once you have created a flat surface, place the log on the ground.
- Take off the ends of each log. Next, rotate the log to remove the last.
- You can continue the process of cutting thick lumber, and then trim it to the desired thickness.
There Are Pros And Cons To Using A Chainsaw Mill
A chainsaw mill has many benefits. Here are some of the benefits:
- It’s easy on the wallet and cheap to convert into a milling machine
- Portable and easy to use
- This equipment can be used to make boards
- This equipment is permissible for milling wood
These are some of the disadvantages to chainsaw mills.
- A chainsaw mill can be quite bulky.
- Produces more sawdust than a proper mill
Additional Tips And Tricks
1. Finishing or post-process tasks
You may have to trim a piece of thick wood to get the desired size. Mark the desired thickness with a pencil. Next, cut vertically along the length of your choice until you’re done.
2. Take out or clean branches
Before you start slabbing, make sure to clear the branches using a smaller chainsaw. This makes the process safer and more efficient.
Our Top Recommendations For A Chainsaw Mill
1. Carmyra 91 cm portable chainsaw mill
Carmyra’s 91 cm portable chainsaw milling machine is made of high-quality steel and aluminium. It is portable, lightweight and very accurate in cutting wood. This tool is easy to use and can be used to cut logs into lumber quickly.
