First sawmill

[dansietsma]

Long time lurker, don't usually post.  But it has come time to purchase a hobby use sawmill.  Really like the EZ Boardwalk design, but would be nice to have something a little more local.  Long story short, this would first be used for personal use to build some dry storage and a sugar shack.  Would be mostly sawing softwood, but can't rule out some hardwood milling at some point.  I am not too concerned about no hydraulics.  I have a Kubota MX class tractor to load logs.  I would like a trailer package for the times the mill needs to be moved around.  Woodmizer would be nice, but I don't think I can swing that price point at this time. Have recently heard about Turner mills which would be a lot closer to me. Other thoughts? Or other questions for me?  Thanks in advance.

[thecfarm]

Check out Thomas sawmills.
They have an all manual mill.
I've had one for years. Kinda use it the way you want too.
They even have a clapboard lever. I call it that because the head tilts. No need for a jig.
I almost think I could pick mine up by the corner and shake it and put it back down and it still would be level.

[beenthere]

Hopefully you will pick a mill from a sponsor of the Forestry Forum. They are really the ones keeping the Forum running for members and for guests.

[Digger Don]

Don't be afraid to look at used mills. You might find one with hydraulics for the price of a new manual mill. We found a Timberking B20 for less than $15K.

[KWood255]

I've only had Woodmizer mills, and would highly recommend something like an LT15 if the budget allows. They have been around a long time, and are impressive for a hobby machine. 

I have heard positive reviews on the SMG Champion mills as well. They are built in Canada, using Honda engines. Very nice looking machines.

If you are able to consider a mill with hydraulics, you won't regret it!

Best of luck.

[jpassardi]

I can attest to what KN said above: I bought my LT15 used and soon understood why people are fond of the "orange" mills. I've made upgrades to mine which has made it even better.
Definitely recommend looking for a used LT15. Have you looked at their more entry level mills they now make? The LX30 is $2500 and it has roller guides.

[dansietsma]

Thanks for the input.  I knew there was one in Maine, but I couldn't remember the name.  Thanks for the reminder thecfarm.  I have looked for used mills, haven't seen too many in my area.  Especially this time of year.  Actually with the spring sale, the LT15 with a trailer package is right around the same price as the other mills I was considering.  Guess I have more to think about know...  Again, thanks for the input everyone.

[thecfarm]

I know this show is about 4 hours away on May 16-17
 but this is the place to go to see sawmills and woods equipment.

Bangor,ME woods expo

It's a 2 day show that is great to attend.
Sawmills are sawing, and they will answer questions.

[dansietsma]

Unfortunately, I have to work my day job both of those days.