Sawmill

Band Saw

I like Woodland. Add $489 to make it cut 16′ 11″ logs for a total cost of $5,388. The blade guides are designed for you to move them close to the log at the blade entry and exit sides to minimize “float” and maximize accurate board cutting. I think that feature is important. What about Norwood? This has a 16′ log length for $5,495. The Norwood 27 has a sawdust exhaust connection so you can “bag” your sawdust.

Chainsaw Sawmill

A chainsaw sawmill is a lot cheaper but cuts slower and uses more gas than a band saw and wastes more sawdust. But some say it cuts more accurately. It is hard on the chainsaw, so you want a good quality saw and big enough. And keep that cutting chain sharp!

I am thinking a minimum of 60cc, but really would prefer something bigger. Below I select saws from a 2021ish article that looked like it was from a professional saw user, or that are sold by Bailey’s which sells to pro loggers.

• Echo 73.5cc 5.4hp w/ 32″ bar. $859.10 Sold on Bailey’s (67cc w/ 28″ bar for $689.99 – has nice features!)
• Husqvarna 88cc 8.4hp w/ 32″ bar $1,279.00 (Listed as a Best big saw) Sold on Bailey’s
• Makita 79cc 5.7hp powerhead only. $819.00 (Listed as a Best big saw – add ~$100 for 28″ bar) Sold on Bailey’s
• O-jenas 92cc 6hp w/ 25″ bar. $367.00 (Its big bro 105cc saw is listed as a Best big saw) These are the Stihl 060? and 070 design, which I think Stihl no longer makes, but they are probably made in China and the parts may not be to the original Stihl specs.
• The Neotec NS8105 is Neotec’s “Pro” version of their Farmmac F070W. Parts for both are interchangeable with the old Stihl 070. They are 105cc, 6.5hp. The “Pro” version has an upgraded carb and flywheel.

Granberg International has probably the best ripping chain.

I like this Alaskan mill design by Bongodrummer: Chainsaw Mill Build. But Granberg also makes them, and Neotec has one.