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Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

2522 Views 22 Replies 15 Participants Last post by Dovetail_Tendonitise, Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45

Discussion Starter · Nov 17, 2013

Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

1 - 20 of 23 Posts

grizzman

· #2 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

well doc, as much as our brains and will power tell us to go ahead and do something like what your talking about, the reality is , its really hard work, cutting wood up with a chainsaw is lots of work, and a lot of time spent sharpening chains and maintaining your saw, i have the feeling that the fun of it will wear off pretty fast…and you will then feel depressed as your sitting there looking at the expensive saw and mill and protective gear you bought, and not to mention your aching muscles…, as much as our inner selves say hey i can do this, this will be fun…it wont be…lol…but if you decide to go for it, i will root you on….and i will even send you a tube of ben gay.

Dal300

· #3 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Doc, I'm not sure how old you are, but I am 58 going on 59. I have had a shattered pelvis and I don't get around too well anymore. Often I have to use a cane.
I also use to smoke like a steel mill chimney although I quit that 3 months ago. I still can't breathe well and just walking our property gives me pause for a lot of rest stops.

However, having said all that, I built a chainsaw mill about 2 years ago. My saw is a Poulan 50cc, not huge but it does handle the 28" bar I bought for it.
I cut up about 6000 board feet of oak, pecan, elm, Osage Orange and cedar since I built this contraption.
I don't work fast, some days I don't work at all. I just take it as I can.

I would advise you to buy a mill and saw and try it. A Huskvarna 455 Rancher is the identical saw to my Poulan, but costs $200 more, (It's all in the advertising and packaging). Both come with a 20" bar but I advise getting rid of the factory bar and pick up a decent Oregon bar.

Good luck, At our age we can keep doing what we want, just not as quickly as we use to.

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DocSavage45

Discussion Starter · #4 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Grizz & Dallas.

Don't like the smell of Ben GAY but Thanks for your wisdom.

Dallas, I'm 68 and fairly healthy, just woosie. LOL But as you said I'm near the end and not the beginning. LOL! I can get a Husqvarna, new for decent price. The but is Takes time(which is precious) and maybe I should make pieces, vs. Slabs?

Thanks for your input guys, gotta go and do paperwork/computer work at the office for a few hours to keep up with younger folks.

Will be back in around 5 hrs.

kiefer

· #5 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

DOC
If you ask me I would hire the sawing out and build stuff from the wood that way you get to enjoy the lumber you have salvaged but get around the hard work and expense of all the equipment required .
I have made friends with a sawmill fellow and enjoy going out their and picking up wood ready for use and he and his wife enjoy the little presents I make for them .
Enjoy your time in the shop and don't go busting up your body ,it's not worth it as much fun as you think it is .

stefang

· #6 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

By the time we realize what we should do we are too old to do it! If you have to do logging just cut up small ones on your bandsaw.

longgone

· #7 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Doc…If I were you I would let someone mill the lumber and spend your time working on projects and woodworking skills/ techniques. A lot more fun than the labor intensive work of milling lumber.

Dal300

· #8 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

You could always buy the equipment and hire a nephew or niece or neighbor kid to do the fetch and tote.
Let them do the work and sell them the equipment in exchange for lumber or lumber and what they can sell.

BobAnderton

· #9 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

I would say for sure do it. I've got one of those Granberg Alaskan Mark III mills and a Husqvarna 460 saw and I've milled about 30 different trees, or parts thereof, in the past couple years. Mostly just curbside finds or Craigslist offers. I would say 1/2 the fun of woodworking for me is the milling and drying of my own wood. Figuring out how to stack and air dry properly is 1/2 the battle as there are a lot of ways to mess up. Cracks, bowed boards, insect infestation, mildew and sticker stain, it's all out there waiting for you. Dry it too fast and you've got one set of problems, dry it too slow you've got another. Paint anchorseal on the ends of logs before milling and on knots and crotch/flame figure after milling. It's a blast. As long as the wood's free and would have gone to waste anyway you're getting an education as you go. You can mill the log where it lays so you don't have to be able to load them up and transport them. It's MUCH nicer to get the logs up on some sturdy sawhorses or purpose built stands if you can manage it. Then you're cadillac'in. I use a 24" bar and a 28" bar. I also have the edger that holds the saw vertical so I can take the edges off first if I come up on a really big log. Figure on being able to mill something about 6" narrower than the bar length, so with a 28" bar I can get a 22" wide board milled. The 24" Granberg mill will handle a 28" bar perfect. I make a air drying stack in the back yard for the first 6-12 months and then move it to my attic once it's down below 20% moisture or so.

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Bluepine38

· #10 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

You have not said whether or not you have ever operated a chainsaw. I you have not, then rent or borrow
one first, read all the instructions and try it out. That will give you the start of an answer. I have owned &
operated a few chainsaws, still have a Husky 455 Rancher in the shed that I got free & overhauled. I try to
get to the gym at least 3 times a week to stay healthy and capable of playing in the shop easily. This is one
of those hard to answer questions. You can make your own mill from an aluminum ladder and 2xs the big
expense it the ladder & chainsaw. Then if it works for you, you can get fancier. Whatever you decide , have
fun and be careful.

donwilwol

· #11 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Im 56 and cut with a chainsaw mill http://lumberjocks.com/donwilwol/blog/23436 for a while. A few years ago I went to a band saw mill. I had a pile of logs bigger than I thought this body could handle. Keep in mind, I've been using a chainsaw since I was probably about 14.

At 68, I'd find another way.

mantwi

· #12 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

The chainsaw milling sounded like a great idea to me many years ago too. Now the time when I had the strength to do it are gone but I found an even better solution for obtaining locally harvested, air dried cherry, maple, oak, etc. I found a guy on craigslist in my area that was offering lumber at $1.50 a bd ft. I was a little skeptical but his farm was within a reasonable distance so I set up an appointment and made a run. It's a bonanza, I'm buying beautiful rough sawn, air dried lumber at a fraction of the retail cost. Best of all I'm spared the back breaking work involved in sawing it myself. I have almost 1400 bd ft of maple, cherry, oak and walnut stockpiled. It will take a while to use it all and I'm loving it. Remember the old commercial about easy traveling that said "Go Greyhound and leave the driving to us" that applies to more than travel. The wood I got was from farmland that had been cleared years ago and the color is striking. The deals are there if you are patient it will be rewarded.

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Dal300

· #13 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

"Hard Work?", "Back breaking work?"
WTH or WTF?

The difficult part with chainsaw milling is the first cut. I use a little 14" arbor saw to to make a flat spot to put my ladder that is my straight edge.
Once you get the first cut from the straight edge, you are golden.
From then on you just keep pushing the saw through by hand. No, it's not fast but it can be pretty accurate. I like doing 2 1/2" and 4" slabs. Drying inside the shop takes less than a year from green to less than 8% mc.

4" slabs can be cut into 4- 4/4 slabs, finished out to 3/4" white oak.

Most of my slabs are 48" to 60" long. Those equal about as much as I can lift anymore, but they sure ship nicely and have paid for my shop upgrades.

DocSavage45

Discussion Starter · #14 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Kiefer, Stefang, Greg, Bob, Gus, Don, Mantwi, and Dallas(again

)

Guys thanks for your advice and wisdom. Some good suggestions.

Thanks!

Just got back from Computer program hell, but like learning a new tool, I'm sticking with it for me.

Tom aka DocSavage 45

grizzman

· #15 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

you know doc, in my fantasy world, i would love to see you out there with logs galore, you cutting away and storing all the beautiful wood you have cut up, but…yea there is always the but…it is some heavy duty work and its possible for you to do it, but…if you could find someone who has a set up like your thinking about, you could try there's out and see how it all feels…then make a choice…i sure would love to see you get at it….but…..

TopamaxSurvivor

· #16 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

I have an old 041 Super Sthil with a 24" bar and a 32" with skip tooth if I need it. I have tried "milling" a little bit with it. Smaller saws don't seem to have the HP to cut lengthwise. It is a lot of work! Be prepared to be in good shape when you get done ;-)

It has been a couple of years since I did any. I found the easiest way is to set them on end and rip away. I make a straight line of both sides of the log to follow. Keep checking and you'll be able to follow it pretty good with a little practice.

DocSavage45

Discussion Starter · #17 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

It's definitely easier to think about it. LOL! Got to go feed the pride. Thanks every one for your wisdom.

benjireyes

· #18 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Hi Tom,
I too would enjoy collecting and milling my own wood. But for people like me who stock up on chili plasters and Bengay, I would just search the area for someone who could do the milling for me. It can save you from the possibility of injuring yourself which might end up being more costlier than buying milled wood in the first place. Save your time and strength for the workshop.

Chairs! (cheers)

DocSavage45

Discussion Starter · #19 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Benji,

Your advise is appreciated. I'm pretty cautious around all power tools. Hope thugs are improving there.

superdav721

· #20 · Nov 17, 2013

DocSavage45 said:
Need some input "chaisaw milling fantasy or reality?"

I've had a vision of my self milling the free logs that are constantly being dumped at our compost site in our town. I have read about it, thought about it, and investigated the Husqvarna and Sthil saws at my local Farm & Fleet for maneuverability. But that is the chain saw only. I've been reading blogs here, and checking out You Tube.

Here are some facts to consider: In my younger days I could carry a 4×8 panel of sheet rock by lifting it. 30 years later I am using a panel carrier, moving slower on 3/4 sheets of plywood or less. I have no one to ask for assistance as my friend is older than me ( he has too much to maintain himself) and my brother lives 3.5 hrs. away. My brother is not mechanically inclined. But he will repeat tasks as directed. I am about 5'8" and shrinking. LOL! I also figure ten years tops for my remaining woodworking days. ( looking at family history life spans)

Oh yeah I was rehired at a Mental Health center, and I now have one day a week available as it is full time, and I am now trying to learn new technology like their computer system programs. There is a 6 month trial period. I might not make the expectations, but I am doing what I can. Have cash and buying tools in case it does not turn out?

I am thinking it's a fantasy as my brother ( an EMT) just took a guy to mayo who had a severed artery in his leg while out cutting wood with his chain saw.

Finished lumber is costly and I like air dried as a material that has more potential?

So fellow LJ's help Ol" Doc Savage out by giving me some of that experienced Knowledge and opinions.

Thanks

Thomas Tieffenbacher/aka Doc Savage 45

Doc I cut firewood As a young man. My heart won't let me do no where near the load I used to do. But I do chip at hard jobs just on a lower level. As a young man I would stay in the garden all day long. Now 2 hours of that hot sun and a hoe and I am ready to come into the shade. I am with Mike try it on a smaller level. Slow and steady will get it done.
One more story.
A week ago I bought a cord of red oak. This means I had to move it three times. Load it, unload it and stack it. When I bought it the was an older fellow there working for the man that sold it to me. He helped me load it on my truck. I would have guessed him to be in his later fifties. When we were done I gave him a tip and asked him "how old are you?". From the stories he had been telling me, he had to have been around a few years. He told me 78! That man could work my ass into the ground.
When we stop working in the yards and fields and get behind a desk. We shorten our lives. My advise work hard as you can as long as you can and eat well.

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