What Size Chainsaw for Milling Lumber? Power & Details Explained!

Cutting wood is an  absolute art, and this requires an "aesthetic eye" that can shape the board by just looking at the board. However, your hand-eye skill are a function of what type of saw you use.  You get an excellent piece of log, but the cuts are horrendous.

Has this happened to you that the cut you got in your mind is right in front of you, yet the end product lets you down? It has happened to many people. Let us assure you that it's not you if you have the skills to cut the wood. It's the wrong tool that is causing the problem for you. Don't worry, we all have been there.

What you need is a machine that follows the commands of your mind and hands. Choosing the right chainsaw can be an uphill task, and the market is full of chainsaws from small to medium to large ones, but choosing the right tool can be a task in itself. You do not need to worry, as we will tell you about the key factors that you need to keep in mind before making a decision.

Why Use a Chainsaw for Milling Lumber?

There is not an iota of doubt and debate over the invaluable nature of the chainsaw in milling lumber. If you are working with wood and need to cut the boards to size, you must understand the vitality of a chainsaw. The right chainsaw and the relevant skills make the most of your effort.

The requirement is to choose the appropriate machine that cuts like butter and shapes the boards as per the sizes required. The market runs high on these powerful tools, but you have to consider the various factors and ask yourself a few questions before spending the hard-earned money.

That said, many would contradict you for choosing a chainsaw for milling; however, we are here to turn the tide on them as the same tool for cutting the trees are useful in shaping the boards. Here are the reasons for selecting a chainsaw for milling lumber.

• It is a cheap mechanism for milling the lumber. The trick is to get the right chainsaw for the type of trees or timber you want to shape.
• It saves your time and energy as it's portable and efficient in cutting the logs. You don't have to carry the logs. Just cut the trees and take out the boards.
• It delivers clean and quality boards and cuts, if you have the right set of skills
• It makes your life easy because of its compact, lightweight, and portable nature.
• Easy to use and can provide quality cuts, regardless of the Size of the slabs.

While keeping the above factors in mind, the question arises regarding the Size, machine's Size and power that caters to your needs. You can find various chainsaws in the stores; however, the tool's Size and strength are the two variables you need to keep in mind before buying a suitable device.

What Size Chainsaw For Milling?

The Size of the chainsaw is dependent on the type of job at hand. The guide bar's Size is the key factor that determines the kind of work that the tool has to perform. The long guide bar can pass through a large timber piece, while a small bar is useful in cutting the smaller ones.

For instance, you plan to utilize a 24" inch mill; then, you will need a guide bar of 30" inches in case of cutting through a heavy length. The ideal bar is between 24" inches to 36" inch. However, the guide bar needs a powerful engine. The Size and length vary from task to task and are dependent on your skills to operate the device, maintaining your safety.

How Much Power is Needed in a Chainsaw For Milling Lumber?

As for the power, it's the engine that provides it. The engine allows the length bar to flourish through the log. The powerful the engine, the easy is the cut. As mentioned before, it's the choice that you make that comes into play. You have to be thoughtful of the task at hand and choose the power gauge wisely.

Chainsaw's power is assessed in cubic centimeters. The higher the "cc," the power of the engine. Depending upon the usage, the "cc" ranges from 34 cubic centimeters to 110 cubic centimeters. The market allows you to choose from the two variants of the engine types concerning power.

1. Electric Engine:

Powerful rechargeable batteries supply the chainsaws. These engines are efficient for medium to small tasks, with fewer maintenance costs. The chainsaw is a hit in urban households for it's efficient to work in the household chores.

· The ideal power saw for such urban tasks requires a small engine of 34 cubic centimeters. You should make sure to have a proper electric source to charge or plug the chainsaw. Some variants frequently need a power source to be attached to.

· Although electric engines are not as powerful as gas or fuel engines, the advancement in tech fields is venturing to create powerful electric engines that may rival fuel engines.

2. Gas Engine:

As opposed to their electric counterpart, fueled engines are suitable for heavy tasks. The engines are heavier, louder, and not environmentally friendly. These engines need constant refueling and maintenance for the smooth functioning of their mechanism. Large engines with a power of 65 ccs are utilized in cutting into thick logs.

Selecting the best chainsaw is related to the type of work at hand. The following table elaborates the power range and work type to help you choose the right tool for yourself.

You should also consider safety features and take preventive measures as directed by the chainsaw guides. Safety is the priority. Two devices in the mechanism assist in keeping you safe.

Chain Catcher: It catches the chain, keeping the chain in check when it's broken or derailed. It keeps the operator's hand safe from any severe injury in case of the chain's malfunctioning.

Chain Brake: It allows the handler to stop the chain between the cutting process and clamps down the chain in case of a spin back, avoiding serious consequences.

Conclusion

The chainsaw is an excellent machine and fulfills its purpose efficiently; however, you must have the right skill set to tackle the device smoothly.  The parameters mentioned above and guidelines will enable you to make the right choice while getting your favorite "toy" to play with.

Keeping these attributed such as band size, engine power, dynamics, safety, and types of tasks at hand, you will effectively skim through the brands and types of the tool of your choice.