An Alaskan mill is a portable sawmill that can be used to mill logs into lumber. It consists of a chainsaw mounted on a wheeled frame with guide rails. The chainsaw slides along the rails to cut planks from a log. Alaskan mills are popular among hobbyists and small-scale woodworkers for their low cost and portability compared to larger, stationary sawmills. But is an Alaskan mill worth investing in? Here is an in-depth look at the pros and cons of using an Alaskan mill so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.
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The advantages of an Alaskan mill
There are several key benefits that make Alaskan mills a compelling option:
Low cost
Alaskan mills are very affordable compared to other types of sawmills. A basic manual mill can be purchased for $150-$300. More robust options with powered capability run $500-$1,000. This represents major cost savings over stationary sawmills that can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Portability
The lightweight and compact size of Alaskan mills make them highly portable. The mill and accessories can be easily packed into a truck or trailer. This allows you to bring the mill to your logs rather than having to transport logs to a permanent mill site. It’s easy to set up and take down in a new location.
Flexibility
An Alaskan mill can handle logs up to around 30 inches in diameter depending on the bar length of the chainsaw used. This allows you to mill smaller hobby logs as well as sizable timber. The adjustable rails let you cut planks, beams, and boards of varying widths with one setup.
Cuts a variety of wood types
From softwoods like pine to hardwoods like oak, an Alaskan mill can handle milling different species of trees. The chainsaw power and sharpness make it possible to rip through both hard and soft wood types.
Potential drawbacks of an Alaskan mill
Of course, there are also some possible disadvantages that should be considered:
Slower process
Alaskan mills cannot match the milling speed of large stationary sawmills. Expect to mill lumber at 25-30 board feet per hour. This slower pace is due to both the manual process of adjusting and clamping logs as well as the chainsaw limitations.
Labor intensive
Milling with an Alaskan mill is physically demanding. The logs must be rolled and lifted into place. Operating the chainsaw for long periods can be tiring. You’ll need strength and endurance to mill efficiently.
Limited log length
The rails on most Alaskan mill models have an 8 foot maximum length capacity. This restricts the length of boards you can cut. Larger logs must be bucked into segments under 8 feet before milling.
Learning curve
Like any new tool, expect a learning curve to gain skill and efficiency with an Alaskan mill. From setup to avoiding binding, there are techniques to master through experience.
Safety risks
Chainsaws are inherently dangerous tools, and caution must be used when milling. The potential for kickback and contact with the moving chain poses risks if proper precautions aren’t taken.
Ideal uses for an Alaskan mill
An Alaskan mill is best suited for certain scenarios:
Occasional use
If you only need to mill lumber periodically for hobby projects or personal use, an Alaskan mill is a great fit that saves money over a full-scale mill.
Milling smaller logs
Alaskan mills are ideal for cutting planks and beams from logs less than 2 feet in diameter. Handling small to medium logs is the sweet spot for this scale of mill.
Portable operation
The transportability of Alaskan mills makes them very useful if you need to move locations frequently. You can easily mill trees on properties without permanent infrastructure.
Cut specialty lumber
An Alaskan mill allows you to mill one-of-a-kind planks from beautiful burls, crotches, and unique tree forms.
DIY projects
For the home woodworker, an Alaskan mill provides the ability to cut your own lumber for furniture, home decor, and outdoor projects.
Key factors when buying an Alaskan mill
If an Alaskan mill sounds appealing for your needs, keep these key considerations in mind when selecting a model:
Rail length and width capacity
Consider the maximum log length and width capacity you’ll need for your planned uses. Standard sizes are 66″ or 84″ rails with 24″-36″ cutting capacity.
Chainsaw compatibility
The mill frame must be matched to your chainsaw bar size. Most are compatible with common chainsaw bar lengths, but verify fit.
Portability features
Look for a lightweight but sturdy frame with good maneuverability. Wheels, adjustable log dogs, and balanced pushing handle are useful.
Ease of assembly
Quick assembly without tools allows you to start sawing faster. The frame and rails should lock together securely.
Safety
Check for safety features like anti-kickback mechanisms, chain covers, emergency stops, and chain brake integration.
Cost
Manually powered models range from $150-$500. More advanced power-assist mills cost $800-$1,500. Match your budget to intended use.
Recommend Alaskan mill models
Based on expert reviews and customer experiences, these Alaskan mill models deliver excellent value and performance:
| Model | Description |
|---|---|
| Granberg Alaskan Mark III | Durable 66″ mill with excellent stability. Smooth cutting with balanced chainsaw control. |
| Timber Tuff Lumber Cutting Guide | Budget-friendly manual mill. Easy to assemble and align. Good for occasional use. |
| Logosol Timberjig | Top-quality Swedish made mill. Precise cutting with smooth log sliding. More expensive but long-lasting. |
| Woodbug Powered Alaskan Sawmill | Electric motor assists chainsaw cutting. Less physical effort while milling. Higher cost for the added power. |
Conclusion
For the right user, an Alaskan mill can be an extremely worthwhile investment. The low cost and portability make it accessible for small-scale milling needs. The ability to mill your own lumber is very rewarding. But the physical workload and safety risks should also be carefully weighed. Overall, an Alaskan mill is ideal for hobbyists and woodworkers milling smaller logs on an occasional basis. With realistic expectations of the pros and cons, an Alaskan mill can be an excellent addition to your woodworking toolkit.