1. Granberg MK-IV Alaskan
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Specifications
- Construction: Aircraft steel and aluminum
- Used for: Chainsaws with bars of 36”
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 0.5” to 13” thick, and up to 27” wide
- Capable of cutting: Cedar, walnut and oak
- Ideal for: Builders, wood workers and outdoor enthusiasts
- Installation: No drilling required – It clamps onto your chainsaw bar
Our first selection is a mill with 30” rails. The slab thickness it accommodates for cuts ranges from 0.5” to 13”, whereas the width is 27” peak. What makes it stand out is
the anti-vibration system that uses metal runners to hold the chainsaw in place, impeding accidents. More than that, the end brackets are CNC-machined from steel for maximum precision. You can count on it to cut through oak, cedar, and walnut wood and turn it into top-quality timber.
According to specifications, you can utilize it with chainsaws that feature bars up to 36”. It comprises a tubular aircraft structure and presents aluminum extrusion and zinc-plated steel parts that add to its durability. It is manufactured in the U.S., so you can rest assured knowing that good crafting practices are employed in its manufacturing. Additionally, the lifetime warranty covers most issues you may encounter with its manufacturing and functionality.
PROS
- Anti-vibration system with CNC-machine end brackets
- Integrates a handle to provide proper control of the saw
- It makes even and straight cuts
- Straightforward assembly
Verdict
With a resilient structure and an anti-vibration system, this model is exactly what you need regardless of your woodworking skill level. It is reasonably priced and comes with a long warranty offered by the manufacturer.
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2. Timber Tuff TMS-24
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Specifications
- Construction: Aircraft aluminum and stainless steel
- Used for: Chainsaws with bars from 16″- 21″
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 11.81″ – 20″ thick
- Power source: Hand-powered
- Capable of cutting: Cedar, walnut and oak
- Installation: Easy to assemble – it can be attached directly onto the saw bar – with included hardware
A dependable product for cutting top-quality lumber, this model is versatile and stands out through a series of worthwhile characteristics:
- Solid material: as opposed to similar tools, it flaunts a durable build. Manufactured with aluminum and stainless steel, it is among the most durable models at the moment.
- Easy setup: at first glance, it might seem intricate to utilize and install, but the procedure is pretty straightforward. Its ergonomic design permits connecting it straight to the chainsaw bar. As the hardware required for the setup is included you won’t have to pay an extra cent for any tools as of purchasing it, and you even get an instruction manual for guidance regarding the procedure.
It is 24” long and works with saw bars that measure from 16 to 21 inches. It can be attuned to work with a lumber depth from 11.81” to 20”. Regarding size, know that it measures 23.62” in length and 12.6” in width. Although it weighs only 13.7 pounds, it is stable and can help you complete even the largest woodworking projects rapidly.
PROS
- Straightforward setup
- Capable of cutting lumber regardless of its length
- Lightweight design guarantees easy maneuvering
- Ideal for large woodworking projects
CONS
- Some users reported problems with the hardware quality control
- Short warranty as opposed to similar products
Verdict
It does an incredible job cutting lumber, notwithstanding its length. Small in size but with a solid construction, it turned out an option worth considering for experts and amateurs alike.
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Farmertec 36 Inch Holzfforma
Specifications
- Construction: Steel, aluminum and acrylic
- Used for: Chainsaws with bar length from 14” to 36”
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 0.5” to 13” thick and 36” wide
- Capable of cutting: Lumber planks (with adjustable height and weight)
- Ideal for: Homeowners, woodworkers and carpenters
- Installation: Easy to install – hardware included
Due to the aluminum and steel build, this Farmertec product is among the most durable models available.
It can accommodate wood measuring up to 13” in thickness and 36” in width, and it doesn’t take much effort to connect it to a saw bar. Furthermore, there are no limitations when it comes to the type of wood it works with (
you can even count on it for oak, cedar, and walnut), so it makes for a dependable companion for tasks that imply using a mix of woods.
At only 16 pounds, it is among the easier tools to maneuver seeing how it doesn’t weigh much. Both the height and width can be adapted according to the dimensions of the plank you intend to cut, which adds to the tool’s versatility in use. Aside from its efficiency and easy operation, it also comes at an inexpensive price. It is warranted for 1 year, and during this period, the company will replace your product or repair it free of charge if it shows any manufacturing defects.
PROS
- It can be fixed directly to your saw bar
- Both the length and the height are adjustable
- Its lightweight structure reduces the efforts required to handle it
- All the required setup tools are comprised in the package
CONS
- Assembly directions are a bit unclear
- Some users reported missing hardware parts
Verdict
It is efficient, fairly straightforward to use, and affordable. The steel, aluminum, and acrylic utilized in the manufacturing process make it dependable and guarantee that it will pass the test of time. Moreover, it is warranted for one year, and you will receive a new one in case yours presents any manufacturing problem.
4. Granberg G777
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Specifications
- Construction: U.S. made aircraft aluminum and zinc-plated steel construction
- Used for: Chainsaws with 20” or less bars
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 1/2″ to 13″ thick, 17″ wide
- Capable of cutting: Beams and lumber planks
- Installation: It works without drilling bar
- Extra feature: New end brackets – for increased accuracy
Boasting a small footprint and not weighing much so that you can relocate it without much hassle, you can rely on this Granberg tool when you
cut timber pieces from 1/2” to 13” thick and 17” wide. You can even fix it to a saw without boring through the bar.
It works with bars up to 20″ in length, which makes it a good fit for small and large logs alike. It offers precision with each cut and it doesn’t take much familiarity to use it, which is essential for smaller woodworking tasks.
The manufacturing consists of aircraft aluminum zinc-plated steel, and it measures 24” by 13” by 4”. It also comprises a milling attachment that comes in handy when you cut lumber. Regarding the warranty, it is the best you can get, namely a Lifetime contract to keep you covered against any flaws.
PROS
- Able to access almost all timber
- It is smaller than other products, which makes it simpler to handle
- The design diminishes vibrations to enhance use accuracy
- Comprises a polycarbonate safeguard that averts possible accidents
CONS
- Cutting longer logs can take quite a while
- Some users reported that controlling the first cut is a bit difficult
Verdict
If your budget is limited, this model is a worthwhile option to consider. It provides precise cuts, and you fix it to the saw without boring through the bar. It does not weigh much and presents a compact structure, which makes it portable.
5. HiHydro Portable Chainsaw Mill
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HiHydro Portable Chainsaw Mill
Specifications
- Construction: Aircraft aluminum and stainless steel
- Used for: Chainsaws with bars from 14″- 36″
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 0.5″ up to 13″ thick and 36″ wide
- Power source: Hand-powered
- Capable of cutting: Cedar, walnut and oak
- Ideal for: Homeowners, woodworkers and carpenters
The first thing that has caught our attention when revising this product is the superior crafting that shows it is a lasting tool. The HiHydro is built from
heavy-duty aluminum and stainless steel, upholding quality over the years even if you use it extensively. Despite the thick steel used to manufacture it, the tool flaunts a convenient, lightweight design that makes it portable.
It can be matched with chainsaw bars that measure from 14” to 36”, and the peak slabbing thickness is 1/2” to 13”. The tool is surprisingly straightforward to set up and use, which makes it a viable choice for beginner woodworkers and carpenters.
PROS
- Fit for heavy-duty jobs
- The maximum slabbing thickness that it accommodates is 13”
- Durable build – made with stainless steel and aluminum
- Ease of use makes it appropriate for hobbyist woodworkers
CONS
- Some customers found the thickness adjustment design to be rather complicated
- The assembly directions are rather unclear
Verdict
It has a chrome finish intended to keep it protected against corrosion and rust, so you can rely on it to handle extensive and demanding jobs. Plus, as it is lightweight and straightforward to put together, it would make a nice pick even for beginners.
6. Carmyra Chainsaw
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Specifications
- Construction: Aluminum and steel
- Used for: Chainsaws with bars from 14” to 36”
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 0.5“ to 13“ thick and 48” wide
- Capable of cutting: Cedar, Walnut and Oak
- Installation: It works without drilling bar – it can be attached directly to saw
- Extra feature: Increased accuracy
This model cuts boards or timber with
a depth of 0.5″ to 13″ and a width of 48″. The mill provides precise cuts and can be matched with the 9’ rail system manufactured by the same brand. Regarding the structure, it is made of high-grade steel and aluminum to guarantee resilience with time, even if you subject it to routine use. It attaches to the saw quite easily as no boring is necessitated. The set includes everything you need to set it up and an instruction manual that details the procedure. Plus, you get to modify the height and the width, a feature that lets you tackle wood pieces of various sizes.
PROS
- Solid steel and aluminum build
- Comes at a reasonable price
- You can use it on different-sized wood pieces
- Ensures precise cuts with every use
CONS
- The instructions in the user guidebook are not very clear
- It may take more than an hour until you get it assembled
Verdict
This tool is quite popular among woodworkers seeing how it can be affixed directly to the bar without boring through it. A lasting acquisition due to the steel and aluminum build, you can count on it when you need to cut cedar, walnut, and oak of different dimensions.
7. TC-Home Chainsaw
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Specifications
- Construction: Aluminum and steel
- Used for: Chainsaws with bars from 14″- 48″
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 1/2″ up to 12″ thick, 48″ wide
- Power source: Hand-powered
- Installation: No bar drilling is needed – it clamps directly onto the chain bar
- Extra feature: Remote logs for easy transportation
The TC-Home is specifically intended for cutting lumber, so if you take up woodworking jobs often, this is a viable alternative to consider. The build of the tool is comprised of aluminum and steel, guaranteeing that it will be just as good as new even after years of use. Despite the heavy-duty build, it weighs only 16 pounds, so you won’t have a hard time maneuvering it.
It fits saws with bar length from 14 to 48 inches, and you can count on it to mill slabs that measure up to 48” wide and from 1/2” to 12” thick. We must also mention that it is easy to store anywhere you want, be it the truck, garage, or any other small space seeing how it flaunts a rather compressed design.
PROS
- Adjustable cut height and width
- Fits a maximum saw bar length of 48 inches
- Portability granted by its lightweight design
- Attaches directly to the bar of the chainsaw
Verdict
This model is recommended for woodworkers, builders, and DIY-ers who want to complete their projects without putting excruciating effort into the tasks they must undergo. It can be fixed to the existing chainsaw bar easily, and it flaunts a portable design that makes it a cinch to take the tool with you wherever you need it.
8. Popsport Chainsaw Mill
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Specifications
- Construction: Aircraft aluminum and stainless steel
- Used for: Chainsaws with bars from 14″- 36″
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 11.81″ – 20″ thick
- Welding: Mig welding
- Adjustability: Height and width and both adjustable (lumber planks)
- Extra feature: New end brackets – For accuracy and easy calibration
This tool is exactly what a DIY woodworker needs to finish their projects. As you have probably noticed, it boasts a solid construction granted by
aluminum and stainless steel manufacturing. It is small-sized, and the lightweight profile makes handling it a breeze. It cuts any type of timber from 14” to 36” thick.
We like that it works with any type of wood, counting cedar, walnut, and oak. The end brackets that it is fitted with allow straightforward calibration as opposed to other models. Best of all, the brackets are adaptable, more precise, and eliminate vibrations.
PROS
- Solid aluminum and stainless steel structure
- Simple to adjust and calibrate
- It can handle any type of wood
- Lightweight design
CONS
- Assembly directions are a bit unclear
- Welding on the threaded nuts is not the most qualitative
Verdict
This product is reasonably priced, effortless to calibrate, and works with almost any type of wood. Furthermore, it presents a hardwearing and tough structure that ensures prolonged use.
9. MTN Gearsmith Chain Saw Mill
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MTN Gearsmith Chain Saw Mill
Specifications
- Construction: Aluminum and steel
- Used for: Chainsaws with bars from 18″- 26″
- Maximum slabbing thickness: 1/2″ up to 12″ thick and 24″ wide
- Capable of cutting: Cedar, Walnut and Oak
- Installation: No bar drilling is needed – it clamps directly onto the chain bar
- Ideal for: Woodworkers and builders
The simple rail design of this MTN model makes it a standout.
The cutting depth ranges from 1/2” to 12”, while the cutting width 24” tops. There are many aspects to consider when acquiring a mill, and the type of chain bars it features is one of them. In this case, we are talking about two different types of bars, namely:
- 45cc to 67cc (for 18” logs tops)
- 68cc to 85cc (for 26” logs tops)
What we like is that it provides uniform cuts. It works great and offers a straight surface for the mill to ride on. We must mention that it doesn’t require much when you set it up. Just clamp the mill straight onto the chain bar, and you are good to go.
PROS
- Promises uniform cuts with each use
- Flat cuts are achievable once you use it
- Simple to set up – clamps onto the chain bar
Verdict
This is a portable system that can be easily transported and effortless to maneuver. It is straightforward to use and set up, especially since it doesn’t necessitate any bar boring but rather clamps onto the chain bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a chainsaw mill?
It is an attachment tool used for chainsaws. Its purpose is to help you mill logs into lumber that you utilize in woodworking, construction, or carpeting projects, to name a few.
What size chainsaw should I use for milling lumbers?
For most milling tasks, we recommend using a saw that has a minimum displacement of 50cc.
Can I use a large mill with a smaller bar?
The answer depends on the model at hand. Some products can be adapted to fit smaller bars, whereas others do not offer this possibility. As a rule of thumb, at least 4” of width will be lost when the chainsaw is attached to the mill. Thus, if you need to cut 30”, then you should probably choose a 34” mill.
How long should the chainsaw’s bar be?
It varies according to the difficulty of the woodworking projects you take up are. If you are going to work with big logs, then you need a powerful robust chainsaw with long 36” bars that can provide extra reach you necessitate for milling.
Should I use a special chain for ripping?
If you intend to use the chainsaw mostly for ripping, then we recommend using a special chain. You can resharpen the regular chain a much as you want, but it would never rip better than a chain specially intended for ripping.
How do I keep my chainsaw sharp?
You can use either electric or handheld sharpeners for sharpening the blades. We recommend electric models as they are better at maintaining the proper sharpening angle throughout the whole operation.
How often should I sharpen the chain of a saw?
You can sharpen it only a few times (max. 3 times). Over time, it becomes dull and this is the last thing you want to notice when you are getting ready to use the saw. Make sure to check the chain periodically to avoid unpleasant surprises.
How do I take proper care of a chainsaw?
Check the chain oil level before each use. Keep the chain sharp and replace it when needed. Do not use the same chain if the task is difficult and requires a special chain. Keep the saw clean by removing debris and dust after each use.
How often should I oil a chainsaw?
It depends on how often you use it. Smaller capacity saws require 20 milliliters of oil per liter of fuel. As a rule of thumb, the oil tank should be checked and filled before each use.
How long of a log can I mill?
As long as the guide rails are changed according to the length of the log, you are not limited when it comes to this aspect.
Conclusion
Chainsaw mills come quite in handy for woodworkers and construction workers who have to use saws in their projects as they provide control over the tools. These mills are practical and portable, and their asking price is generally accessible. They are perfect for all DIY-ers who want to mill logs into timbers and are generally used when cutting softer wood. If you are a handy person who seeks to acquire the best product possible, we are certain that you will find your ideal choice among the models we presented and analyzed here. Before we end, we want to go over the standout models once more to freshen up your memory and help you decide.
Best Overall:
Granberg MK-IV Alaskan
The intuitive design makes this model straightforward to put together and to adjust. Moreover, it helps provide smooth cuts without effort. It is specially intended for bars that measure a maximum of 36” in length. When it comes to the type of wood that you can cut with its help, some of the assortments comprise cedar, walnut, and oak. Best of all, you don’t have to be an experienced carpenter to use this tool seeing how it is simple and safe to handle.
Editor’s Choice:
Farmertec 36 Inch Holzfforma
You can attach it straight to the bar of the chainsaw, which makes setup quite a breeze. It keeps the saw in a secure position throughout use. Setting it up is not an intricate task in the slightest, and all the hardware you need to follow through with the procedure is included, so there are no extra tools necessary to put it together. The thickness of the slab it can handle is upward of 13”, whereas the peak width is 36”. Please note that it works best with lumber planks.
Best Chainsaw Mill for the Money:
Granberg G777
If you seek a more compact yet affordable model, then Granberg G777 is an option worth considering. It is very straightforward to utilize, and it helps you achieve fast cuts. It is suggested for chainsaws with bars up to 20”. We also like the quality design seeing how it is manufactured with heavy-duty aluminum and zinc-plated steel.
Best Chainsaw Mill with Rails:
MTN Gearsmith Chain Saw Mill
You can count on it for bars measuring between 14” and 48”. It does a great job cutting through cedar, walnut, and oak. Among the factors that caught our attention is that no bar boring is required with it. Aside from this, it features a simple rail design that helps you cut pieces of wood with precision. With a good cutting depth, we recommend this product for people who take up small DIY woodworking projects.
