variables in searching for a saw mill

[DPForumDog]

I am new to sawmills and am not sure what variables I need to consider when purchasing a saw mill.  I would like to build pole barns, outbuildings and maybe some interior walls with the trees from my property.

What are some suggestions you would give to a newbie like me.   What should I avoid.

Can someone recommend a comparison guide?   

Thanks,
DP

[coppolajc10]

Hi DPForumDog, the comparison guide is on its way ... give it a few minutes.  I am also fairly new to sawmilling and went with a Timberking B20.  Factors for me were price and hydraulics as I am attempting to start small business with the sawmill without any employees, so production on my own I felt hydraulics were a must.  Many other factors, and the real experienced ones I'm sure will follow with better advice.  I'm happy with my choice, but there are many, many other good options out there.  Good luck, and happy future sawing, Jake.

[drobertson]

It will take some learning for sure. Straight butt cuts for the 2x's  the upper parts of the trees will make good siding.  Dive in and don't look back for too long.  Wait on good info, and take notes mental or otherwise.   It Takes time to learn to read logs and the behavior.   Very well worth the time, just be patient.

[tmarch]

The best advice I can give is try to locate some mills nearby to visit.  Bells and whistles are good if you need them, but expensive if you don't.  One thing to remember is harvesting your own logs takes time and if you want to do it all your milling time will be a small part of the whole process.  I have a manual EZboardwalk mill and find that the actual milling time is 10-15% of the time it takes to get the logs in and make useable lumber with my equipment.

[Chuck White]

The best advice I can give is try to locate some mills nearby to visit.  Bells and whistles are good if you need them, but expensive if you don't.  One thing to remember is harvesting your own logs takes time and if you want to do it all your milling time will be a small part of the whole process.  I have a manual EZboardwalk mill and find that the actual milling time is 10-15% of the time it takes to get the logs in and make useable lumber with my equipment.

Excellent suggestion! 

[Nomad]

The best advice I can give is try to locate some mills nearby to visit.  Bells and whistles are good if you need them, but expensive if you don't.  One thing to remember is harvesting your own logs takes time and if you want to do it all your milling time will be a small part of the whole process.  I have a manual EZboardwalk mill and find that the actual milling time is 10-15% of the time it takes to get the logs in and make useable lumber with my equipment.

Excellent suggestion! 

     Yeah, what they said.  I'd also suggest you try to put in some time helping sawyers with mills you might consider, and maybe others that you would not consider.  I wouldn't be surprised if you get some offers here, matter of fact.  Contacting some of the mill manufacturers listed on the side of the page for sawyers near you is also an option.

[slider]

I see your in central alabama ,cooks is just down the road from you.

[thecfarm]

I have no idea how much of a hurry you are in. I looked for 20 years before I bought one.   ;D   I have an all manual one. But it's only for my own use. Once in a while I will saw for others,been about 5 years now.

[delvis]

DPForum,

I will be the very first one to say that I am partial to a particular brand, but it's not fair to say that is the only manufacturer to consider when there are other mills out there that may be just as nicely suited to your needs and at the right price for you.  I will tell you to do your research and not settle with something you're not sure about.  If you find yourself saying, "I'm not crazy about this or that, but I can learn to live with it.", you may be unhappy later on.  Ask the manufacturers what kind of organization they have.  Can you call and talk to someone the same day that can help you with a problem you may have?  What kind of training do they offer?  When you buy their mill what does it come with for owner's manuals?  Is there a dealer nearby and does he or she provide service if you need it?

As far as the mills go, ask yourself what kind of work you want to do with the mill.  Do you want to try and saw for customers and make money?  Do you need a higher horsepower mill to get some production or can you get by with a more manual mill that still produces very nice lumber at a much lower cost.  Are you going to be working alone all the time or will you have help?  What kind of support equipment do you have?  A tractor with a set of forks may make it so you don't need a mill with hydraulics.

Try and find a show or logging expo that will have several different manufacturers there so you can get as much information as possible.  The people here try to be open minded about every brand so we don't play favorites and I think that is a good thing overall.  What works best for me may not work for you at all.

Good luck and remember that sawing is about enjoying the experience as much as anything.   

[dboyt]

Look into the manufacturers that sponsor the forum (left side of the screen).  Lots of factors, but a good, solid frame is the foundation of the machine.  Even if well supported, it will likely be bumped by logs and other abuse.  Larger log capacity does not tell the whole story either-- just because a mill can handle a 30" diameter log 12' long doesn't mean it should.  What size are your trees?  Hardwood, softwood, or both?  Do you have help, or will you be working solo?  Future plans?  I've had good luck with my Norwood-- good solid machine, and I can add hydraulics to it later, if I decide I want them.  In general, it is good to opt for the largest engine available for whatever mill you choose.  Also, think about other support equipment... chain saws, winch, truck, etc.

[sigidi]

A lot of good advice can be found right here...I spent a bunch of time here before I ever bought my first mill - but I only had eyes for one mill ;) And in my case they (3 Lucas Mills and counting) have seen me through hobby sawing, building my own house and right up to full time commercial sawmilling.

I had to gear up after a few years, but the others are right, the mill is one part of a complete picture and by the sound of what you propose to do you'll find that out.

Best to try mills if/when you can, don't be in a hurry, get to use what you can and then make a choice