11 Best Chainsaw Mills – Unbiased Reviews

T urning huge logs into leveled-out pieces of lumber might seem to be a more difficult task than what it really is. If you use the wrong tools, yes, it can be quite hard to see the task to the end, but with the appropriate ones, you could have it done in no time, regardless of your skill level. This is exactly why we have put together this article so that we can offer you a variety of chainsaw mill options to browse through to find the perfect fit for your plans.

We can recommend that the unit you go for is both an easy-to-carry and adjustable one so that it’s not too hard to keep a steady and precise hold on it to go through different-sized logs. The materials used in its construction also count, and you should look for a model with hardwearing ones, seeing how a heavy-duty build also implies a long-lasting product. With these aspects in mind, we focused on searching for the products that best suit the most common demands and that any wood or construction worker would appreciate using. So, if you want to learn more about the best options available and see what positions them at the top, keep scrolling further for a thorough analysis of each product.

Tips for Chainsaw Milling

If you’re a beginner in this field and you need to know more before attempting your first cut, we’ve decided to put together a few tips to help you. While most of them can be understood by those who have worked with chainsaws before, we’ve also provided in-depth explanations for each tip so that you don’t have to waste your time by looking up any details.

Always try to adopt a standing position

• By propping your log on a stand, a sawhorse, or any other structure that will not allow it to move or slide around, you’re going to be doing yourself a favor. Many first-time millers start with the log on the ground, and while that’s not necessarily wrong – as larger logs might not be easy to mount on a stand, it can be bad for both your back and your knees.

Use a powerful chainsaw

• By using a more powerful chainsaw (more than 70cc), you’re going to be able to cut slabs faster and easier because the chain will be moved more smoothly and at a constant speed. If you don’t have a 70cc, the absolute least you could go for is a 50cc – and that only for logs with a width measuring less than 15 inches in width. You should also be aware of what to expect if you have a less powerful one, namely an engine that can struggle and an overall more laborious process.

Keep the engine safe

• By keeping a good RPM, you will prevent overworking and possibly damaging the engine. A medium, constant cutting speed will provide an evenly cut slab and a ‘happier’ engine. Make sure you only push the mill forward, at a steady pace, and avoid backward movements to keep the slab even. Also, when you’re done milling, don’t stop the engine right away to allow it to cool down as it idles.
Optional: If your chainsaw is gas-powered, try using a thicker fuel mix. If the regular ratio you use is 50:1, then 40:1 might keep the engine safer. Not all tools allow for this and it’s not something that a beginner should attempt, but the issues that this action can cause are easier to solve than engine damage.

Use the right parts

• A ripping chain has been proven to be the better alternative for this activity because a regular type, although it can work, will force the tool’s motor more than it should and it might dull down faster.

Consider a bigger length

• A longer guide bar and longer guide rails can help you more than you’d think. If you’ve never milled before, know that the mill will take away from the cutting length, which means that you must account for the length loss by adding a bigger guide bar for your chain. Longer rails are useful for longer logs because they can grip the whole length of the log and provide a resting spot for your power tool.

Provide enough oil

• As you might know, the chain needs proper lubrication regardless of the power type of the chainsaw. Without enough oil, the friction between the bar and the wood will cause damage to the components, causing the need for early replacements. If you’re dealing with logs wider than 24 inches, an auxiliary oil source should be considered. The ones on the market are convenient and can easily be attached to the mill’s guide rails.

Clean the logs beforehand

• Debris like sand, small pebbles, or anything similar in the bark can either create accidents by being thrown in the air or they can get your blade to dull faster. If the bark is filled with debris, it’s better to shave it off completely.

Take advantage of the setting you are in

• You can use gravity and wind to your advantage to get the job done faster and keep the fumes away from you. Take note of the direction in which the wind blows and position yourself so that it will keep the dust, fumes, and anything else away from your face. When it comes to gravity, if you carefully prop your log downhill (make sure it can’t move when you work on it) it will be easier to push through with the chain.

Use wedges

• Lastly, to keep your bar safe and avoid having it pinched, consider adding wedges on either side every few inches along the length of the slabs you cut.

Top Rated 11 Chainsaw Mills Comparison

Photo	Product	Dimensions	Product Weight	Cutting Capacity	Bar Compatibility	Adjustability	Price
Best Overall	1. Granberg MK-IV Alaskan	31″ × 14″ × 4″	8.62 lbs.	Width: 26″ Depth: ½” – 13″	30″ or Less	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
	2. Timber Tuff TMS-24	23.62″ × 12.60″ × 18″	13.67 lbs.	Width: 22″ Depth: ⅕” – 11.81″	16″ – 24″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
Best for the Money	3. Granberg G777	24″ × 13″ × 4″	10 lbs.	Width: 17″ Depth: ½” – 13″	16″ – 20″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
Editor’s Choice	4. Farmertec 36 Inch Holzfforma	35″ × 12.5″ × 18″	17.63 lbs.	Width: 36″ Depth: ½” – 14″	14″ – 36″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
	5. HiHydro Portable Chainsaw Mill	37.75″ × 10″ × 3″	7.93 lbs.	Width: 36″ Depth: ½” – 12″	18″ – 36″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
	6. Carmyra	35.4″ × 12.6″ × 18″	16.5 lbs.	Width: 36″ Depth: ½” – 13″	14″ – 36″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
	7. Zchoutrade YJBJ01-36	12.6″ × 35.4″ × 18.1″	16 lbs.	Width: 36″ Depth: ½” – 13″	14″ – 36″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness
Best for Beams	8. TC-Home	47.5″ × 12.5″ × 18″	16 lbs.	Width: 48″ Depth: ½” – 12″	14″ – 48″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
	9. Popsport Chainsaw Mill	36″ × 12.6″ × 18.1″	14.56 lbs.	Width: 36″ Depth: ½” – 13″	14″ – 36″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
	10. JMTAAT 14″-36″ Chainsaw Guide	36.3″ × 12.8″ × 2.9″	13.5 lbs.	Width: 36″ Depth: ½” – 12″	14″ – 36″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price
	11. MTN Gearsmith Chain Saw Mill	25″ × 13″ × 6″	13 lbs.	Width: 24″ Depth: ½” – 12″	18″ – 24″	Cutting Width, Cutting Thickness	Check Price

1. Granberg MK-IV Alaskan

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First up on our list is a model that comes with a very sturdy build, with tubular parts made of heavy-duty aluminum and steel that have been plated with zinc to avoid corrosion after use in different weather settings. The weight is one of the lightest from our top, namely the second lightest, so it will make for an easy carry if you need to use it on-site or take it with you from log to log. Additionally, the lifetime warranty covers most issues you may encounter with its manufacturing and functionality.

Compatibility & Cutting Capacity

The rail length measures 30 inches in total and you can easily attach any chainsaw to this accessory as long as its bar doesn’t exceed said 30 inches. You should also have in mind that a 60cc displacement is preferred, or even more. The cutting capacity is a maximum of 26 inches in width and between ½ and 13 inches in thickness. Thanks to the adjustable mechanism and the calibrated bars you can set the width and depth to your liking, thus you will be able to achieve end-products in varying sizes. This way, you will be able to turn logs into the finite product you need, whether their diameter is narrow or wide.

Features

A feature that makes this system stand out is the anti-vibration system that uses metal runners to hold the chainsaw in place, cutting down on the unwanted movement. Moreover, the brackets on the ends are CNC-machined from steel to enhance precision as you work. You can count on this model to get you through oak, cedar, and walnut wood, turning it into top-quality lumber.

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2. Timber Tuff TMS-24

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A dependable product for turning any log into top-quality lumber, the TMS-24 is versatile and stands out with a series of worthwhile characteristics:

• Solid Build: Compared to similar tools, it flaunts a durable build, as it is manufactured using aircraft aluminum and stainless steel.
• Easy Setup: At first glance, the system might seem intricate to utilize and put together, but the procedure is pretty straightforward. Its ergonomic design permits connecting it straight to the chainsaw bar by the use of clamps, therefore no drilling or other complicated maneuvers will be needed. As the tools and bolts required for the setup are also included, you won’t have to make an extra trip to the hardware store.
• Helpful Add-Ons: To aid you as much as possible, this model comes with a guiding handle and calibrated bars that will help you move the unit along and also show you exactly how much you are taking off of the log in one go.

The rails are 24 inches long and they work with bars that measure as little as 16 inches and as much as 21 inches in length. It can be attuned to work at a depth from ⅕ to 11.81 inches, and it can tackle a width of as much as 22 inches. Regarding its weight, it’s only 13.67 pounds, so you should be able to maneuver it for a long while without too much trouble.

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3. Granberg G777

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Next up we have a petite contender, one that you should consider if you have to work smaller jobs where your logs’ diameter doesn’t exceed 17 inches. At only 10 pounds, its weight will feel like almost nothing, which gives you the option of adding a heavier chainsaw if needed. You can relocate it without much hassle and you can rely on it when you need a portable tool.

Cutting capacity & Features

This unit will allow you to shave the thickness off of your timber pieces, from ½ to 13 inches in one pass and, as mentioned, it will tackle rounds as wide as 17 inches. Compared to the old installation way which included a drilling machine and added stress, with the G777 attaching the bar is done with clamps only. It’s compatible with bars up to 20 inches in length, but it can only go short enough to fit 16-inch ones. The anti-vibration feature together with the calibrated bars and the guide handle offer precision with each cut and it doesn’t take much familiarity to use it, which is essential for smaller woodworking tasks.

Build

Its build consists of durable aluminum and steel, and it also comes with a safeguard made of polycarbonate to keep you safe from flying wood chips. Regarding the warranty, seeing as it is the second entry from Granberg, it is the same lifetime period meant to keep you covered against any flaws for a very long time.

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4. Farmertec 36 Inch Holzfforma

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The following model from Farmertec is the one that managed to take the spot as our favorite and we are about to tell you why. First off, its build is very resistant and it comprises high-grade aluminum, steel, and acrylic, giving peace of mind when it comes to longevity. A small downside to this is that it does come at a bit of a heavier weight of 17.63 pounds, but it shouldn’t affect the maneuverability all that much.

Its cutting ability is quite versatile, as it allows you to adjust the depth from ½ to 14 inches and you can use it for logs with diameters as wide as 36 inches. The bar it can match with has to be between 14 and 36 inches and this gives you a tool that can be useful in a broader number of situations, compared to the TMS-24, for example. Aside from its efficiency and easy operation, it also comes at a relatively inexpensive price to add to its likability. The Holzfforma is warranted for 1 year from the first day of purchase, a time during which the company will replace your product or repair it free of charge if it shows any manufacturing defects. If you’re searching for a model to fit bars that are even longer, the TC-Home can hold a 48-inch length.

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5. HiHydro Portable Chainsaw Mill

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The HiHydro is built using heavy-duty aluminum and stainless steel with MIG welding, upholding its 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. In fact, this unit is the one with the lightest weight of the lot, at less than 8 pounds.

It can be matched with any power tool with a bar that ranges from 14 to 36 inches in length, therefore it can tackle logs with a diameter of as much as 36 inches and the peak cutting thickness goes from ½ to 12 inches. This adjustability makes it a useful tool whether you plan on utilizing it at home or on the job site. Setting it up and employing its abilities aren’t difficult tasks, which makes it a viable choice for carpenters and beginner woodworkers as well. You simply have to use a wrench and a few bolts to clamp the saw onto the rails and you’re good to go.

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6. Carmyra

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Further along, we have a model from Carmyra that measures 35.4 by 12.6 inches and comes at an 18-inch height. Its parts are manufactured using high-grade aluminum and tough steel for a durable, yet lightweight product. The cutting depth ability that it possesses is between 1⁄2 and 13 inches, with 48 inches as the most depth it can take off. To adjust any of these features you can make use of the included tools and the calibration integrated on the bars that sit upwards.

It provides precise cuts thanks to the guide handle and it can also be matched with the 9-inch rail system manufactured by the same brand. Regarding the power tool attachment, this unit’s rails are designed with clamps to hold onto bars that have a length as short as 14 or as long as 36 inches. The package includes everything that will be required in order to put the pieces together and an instruction manual that details the procedure is also present. But, even though the steps are pretty clear, the assembly duration can be longer than expected.

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7. Zchoutrade YJBJ01-36

Zchoutrade brings forth the next entry on the list that is on the average, medium side when it comes to its dimensions. With 35 inches in length, the YJBJ01-36 can be a good fit for bars as short as 14 inches and as long as 36 inches from any chainsaw manufacturer. The build of this piece is made using two materials, aluminum and steel, the first to keep the structure lighter and the second to make sure that it will withstand the activities you’ll be putting it through. At 16 pounds in weight – combined with the added weight of the power tool – the cutting process might tire you out quicker so if you need a lighter model, the HiHydro Portable Chainsaw Mill weighs less than 8 pounds.

If you clamp this model to a 36-inch bar, the cutting width that it will deliver will be 36 inches, and the depth can be set from half an inch up to 13 inches down the log. To help you with the depth adjustment the mill’s bars are calibrated, and to help with the movement, the body comprises a guide handle. In the package you will find the instruction manual and the hardware pieces that you will need to put this model together. If anything seems to be wrong, the warranty window is of one year from the day of purchase.

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8. TC-Home

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The TC-Home is an accessory specifically intended to help you turn logs from their raw state to lumber, so, should you happen to do woodworking jobs often, this unit is another viable alternative to look at. The build of it is comprised of aluminum for the light weight and steel for durability, 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 or transporting it if you need to be in different locations.

It can fit saws that have as little as 14 to as much as 48 inches in bar length, therefore it’s the most accommodating one from this comparison. The ability with which it can cut translates to 48 inches as its widest adjustment, and the depth can vary from 1⁄2 to 12 inches, depending on how you choose to set it. In order to mount it on the blade of the saw, the process is just as with the previously mentioned models, namely, you will need to clamp it on helped by the provided wrench and bolts. For convenience, the body includes a guide handle and the upright bars are calibrated to help you with the adjustments.

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9. Popsport Chainsaw Mill

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Popsport brings forth an entry that is manufactured using reliable aluminum and sturdy steel, wound together with MIG welding so that the unit can withstand the test of time. Once you get it out and unpacked, you will see that it comes unassembled because putting it together will be your job. Doing that is fairly easy, but only if you’ve dealt with this type of product before. If not, know that the assembly manual consists only of an exploded parts diagram, so you might want to find an online video or an experienced person to help you. Once assembled, its weight should be only a couple of ounces short of 15 pounds.

When it comes to its cutting ability, the widest setting you can expect for it is 36 inches. You can tweak it to be narrower, as the bar compatibility goes from 14 inches, the smallest, to 36 inches, the largest on this unit. Clamps will help you mount the saw to the tool. Thickness-wise, it can shave off as little as half an inch and as much as 13 inches in one go, depending on how you adjust the rail height. Lastly, it’s easy to operate due to the guide handle and calibrated bars.

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10. JMTAAT 14″-36″ Chainsaw Guide

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The JMTAAT piece is another one that is available in different sizes, namely one that can fit saw bars between 14 and 36 inches, and one that can fit larger ones of up to 48 inches. Both have a build that consists of steel and aluminum to provide a durable build for long use, but the former is the size we are about to take a closer look at. Weighing only 13.5 pounds, this portable piece can get you through many days of work and not break a sweat.

Its purpose is to provide level support for your saw as you take even, horizontal layers off logs to create the perfect lumber piece. Therefore, it has attachment clamps that fix the power tool on the rails so that there is lower damage than that caused by its counterparts which need to be drilled. As mentioned, it can be adjusted to handle logs as large as 36 inches in width, and the thickness level goes from half an inch up to 12 inches. It features a handle, calibrated bars, and all the hardware you need to assemble it can be found in the package.

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11. MTN Gearsmith Chain Saw Mill

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The last model on our list comes from MTN and it features a simple rail design that makes it stand out. It’s a smaller model, appropriate for lighter jobs, therefore you should only consider it if the logs you plan on cutting are on the smaller side. Its length can accommodate a saw bar as short as 18 inches and as long as 24, therefore the maximum cutting ability when it comes to width is 24 inches. The cutting depth ranges from half an inch to 12 inches, so it can provide a wide enough variety of cuts.

The manufacturer recommends using a chainsaw with a displacement between 45cc to 67cc for logs that have a diameter maximum of 18 inches, and for those between 18 and 26 inches, they recommend 68cc to 85cc. However, you probably won’t need one that goes over 70cc since the maximum width you can go through is 2 inches shorter than their suggestion. For an easy saw bar attachment, this unit is provided with clamps, and for easy cutting adjustments, you can follow the calibration markings on the upright bars.

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Buying Guide

Although it’s an accessory and not a power tool itself, a mill also has aspects that need to be considered before you make a purchase. Getting the wrong one will set your work back by forcing you to take a longer time, make multiple cuts, or wait for a replacement.

Here’s what you need to consider before pressing ‘finished’ on your order:

The Bar Compatibility

Unless it comes with its own guide bar, the mill needs to be compatible with the size of your chainsaw’s bar or you should know the exact length that it allows in order to buy a fitting bar. Knowing the size of the logs you want to cut helps in this case as well, because for smaller ones you can pick a model with short bar compatibility – like the Farmertec 36 Inch Holzfforma or the MTN Gearsmith Chain Saw Mill – and for bigger ones you could go for those with long bar compatibility – like the TC-Home.

The Cutting Capacity

As we mentioned previously, you need to be aware of the fact that this type of mill has a body designed in such a way that the cutting length will be shorter than the bar you fit on it. Some models can even take off as much as 8 inches, which means that you will have to get one that mentions a bigger bar length to account for that loss. Some people also go for the double-cut along the length (one from each side), but if you’re not that experienced the risk with this method is having a weird leftover wood piece along the middle of the slab.

The Weight

The weight of the unit matters because although each of the ones we listed isn’t that heavy when it’s coupled with the weight of a chainsaw (the average is around 12 pounds) it can become tiresome even during the first cut. It’s not the fact that you have to hold the weight, it’s the pushing of it that will tire you out, combined with the vibration produced by the saw. A few of the models here (Granberg G777) are designed to cut down on vibrations. Something that can help in this case is getting a model that has more handles placed in different spots or one onto which you can easily weld some more. If you switch the position of your arms throughout the cutting process, some of the fatigue can be relieved.

The Attachment Method Needed

With some makes, the mill will require you to drill into the guide bar in order to attach the chainsaw, while with others, it will come with a clamping mechanism that doesn’t affect the integrity of the bar. The attachment method is purely a matter of choice, and you can even drill and bolt down the bar on a model that offers clamps too. All of the models we’ve chosen are the type that works with clamps.

The Features

Some of the features you can look for are:

• The size of the guide rails: As mentioned, a bigger length will help when you’re working with longer logs.
• Multiple guide handles: To cut down on arm fatigue.
• Anti-vibration design: This will also help cut down on arm fatigue.
• Calibrated bars: To help you have an easier time when adjusting the cutting depth.

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Sawmilling Safety Tips

When doing work outside, there are more factors involved that you need to consider in order to make sure that you are safe than there are indoors. In your workshop you know exactly what goes where and how everything is organized, thus you have less objects to worry about moving around to make a clear pathway.

The added outdoor factors can be the weather, animals, and other people that can distract you. For this reason, you should always plan out your activity beforehand and let the people you are working with, or the other household members, know what you’re doing to be sure that they don’t intervene in a way that can take your attention away from the task at hand.

To keep the other factors in check, remember the following 5 aspects:

Inspect your tools thoroughly:

• Knowing how your tools are supposed to look and how they work is one of the most important aspects. Check them regularly, preferably before and after each use to make sure that everything is working as it should and that no piece sits in any way that can cause an accident. The details that can be overlooked are the tightness of bolts, the cutting adjustments, and the grip on the handles. You need to be certain that your saw is properly attached to the mill and that it cannot slip or move differently than what is needed. The cutting adjustments need to be measured exactly and set in place before you start the process and your grip on the mill and saw handles should not show any risks of slipping.

Keep yourself protected:

• The need to use protective gear goes without saying. Safety glasses, earplugs, metal toe shoes, gloves, and even face shields are very important pieces that can’t be missing from your arsenal if you regularly work with power tools, and this tool is no exception. You never know when the saw might encounter something on its path that can shoot out during the cutting action, so you need to make sure that your head, hands, feet, and body are all covered. That is why clothing is also important, as you want to keep your whole body covered, but avoid items that fit loosely because those can catch onto a sharp and jagged chain tooth and that can result in a serious accident.

Keep your surroundings clear:

• Tripping hazards are never fun, but they’re even worse in situations where falling near a chainsaw is a possibility. Make sure that everything that has no business being on the ground next to you is moved away. This can include leftover wood pieces, other tools, power cords, tree branches, and the likes. Secure an area of at least 6 feet all around the log you’re working with.

Keep your pets away:

• If you are milling at home and you have pets that can roam freely in your yard, it’s best that you keep them inside or in a pen from where they can’t escape until you’re done with your work. Although for many people it’s their dogs or cats that are the main concern, birds can also be a problem. If your chickens’ enclosure has an automatic coop door opener you can shoo the birds inside and engage the closing button to keep them safe.

Avoid milling in bad weather:

• Avoid milling in less favorable weather as much as possible – like rainfall, snow, or when the ground is frozen – to cut down on the possibility of slipping or on your saw getting water damage. If you absolutely have to, consider buying or putting together an overhead cover that can keep you protected from above.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

This type of product comes quite in handy for woodworkers and construction workers who need saws in their projects as they provide control over the tools. These mills are practical, transport-friendly, and their asking price is generally accessible. They are perfect for all DIY-ers who need to mill logs into timbers and are generally used when cutting softer wood, so if you are a handy person who seeks to acquire the best product possible, we are certain that you can find your ideal choice among the units we have presented here. Before we end, we want to go through the standout choices once more to freshen up your memory and help you decide.

Best Chainsaw Mill for Sale: Granberg MK-IV Alaskan

The intuitive design makes this model straightforward to set up and maneuver. Moreover, it helps provide smooth cuts without effort. It is specially intended for bars that measure at most 30 inches in length. When it comes to the kind of wood that you can cut with its help, some of the assortments comprise cedar, walnut, and oak. Best of all, having experience as a carpenter is not needed to use this tool seeing how safe and simple it is to handle.

Editor’s Choice: Farmertec 36 Inch Holzfforma

The Farmertec is, in our opinion, the model that has it all. The thickness of the slab it can handle is upward of 14 inches, whereas the peak width is 36 inches, so it’s a great adjustable tool to have at hand. Moreover, it fits a wide variety of bar lengths and it can simply be clamped on to start doing its job. Also, for convenience, the guiding handle and the calibrated bars will help you get through your tasks in an instant.

Best Chainsaw Mill for the Money: Granberg G777

If you seek a more compact yet affordable model, then Granberg G777 is a piece worth considering. It is straightforward to utilize and it helps you achieve fast cuts. The suggested use is with chainsaws that have bars up to 20 inches. It will probably fit smaller jobs, as the maximum log width it can handle comes at 17 inches. We also like the quality design seeing how it is made using durable, high-quality materials.

Best Chainsaw Mill for Beams: TC-Home

When we were looking at the TC-Home, we realized that it is a great pick if you’re looking to cut both bigger logs and beams. The large size of this model allows for bars that are as big as 48 inches to be clamped on which will give you a wide enough cutting ability to take down bigger projects, and the steadiness provided by the rails and guide handle will enable you to make smooth cuts through wooden beams that need to be made smaller.