Having the right tool for the job is key to making life easier, this is especially true when it comes to chainsaws for ripping logs. As I’ve said countless times, ripping and milling are the two most strenuous tasks for a chainsaw. Since ripping logs can put a lot of stress on a chainsaw, you will need a high power chainsaw that can handle the largest of trees.
Power tools like high-end chainsaws can be quite expensive, especially ones that can handle the hard work of milling lumber. If you’re looking for a more affordable option that can still handle the job, then we think we’ve found the best chainsaw for milling lumber for the money. Our pick for the best chainsaws for milling lumber overall was the Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw.
Choosing the best chainsaw for milling your own lumber will really come down to how large of trees you’ll be working with. If you’re clicking on links that take you to a big box lumber store or Amazon, then you’re not going to be buying a chainsaw capable of milling lumber. Almost anyone who has spent a decent amount of time milling their own logs will quickly tell you that this is the saw you should go with from day one if you’ll be milling with any consistency.
We can say that the cutting angle was always a constant 10 degrees, which is standard for a ripping chain. You have to keep in mind that your output will vary depending on what kind of ripping chain you have. So if you’re getting any one of them, you can probably get the best ripping chain for your chainsaw.
Having a dedicated chainsaw for milling purposes would provide ultimate convenience to handle lumber. We outlined already how a chainsaw offers convenience and helps immensely in cutting down the costs associated with lumber milling. If you are still confused, then go with our suggestion of choosing Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf as it’s indeed the best chainsaw for milling available in 2022 that features a powerful 59.8cc gas engine along with an extra sharp bar and chain.
best chainsaw for ripping posts Related Question:
Is there a ripping chainsaw chain?
A ripping chain is a semi chisel option that’s used on shallow-angle cutters with around 10° cutting angle. It cuts along the wood grain rather than cutting across the pores or veins, which is different from other options available in the market.
What is the best size chainsaw for an Alaskan mill?
Most Alaskan mills require at least 3 inches extra at the end of the bar for attachment. I also recommend going with a saw with an engine size of at least 60cc for smaller logs and softer woods. A minimum of 90cc would be best though.
What chainsaw do loggers use?
Stihl is the most popular chainsaw for professional loggers. It has a long-lasting chain, and you can also enjoy the exceptional cutting speeds available with this brand of chainsaw. Additionally, the chains are high-performance, low vibration, and quiet in their performance.
Is a ripping chain full chisel?
Ripping chains are always micro-chisel or semi-chisel featuring a cutting angle of typically between 5-10 degrees, but more often 10 degrees. This low cutting angle means you will not achieve the best results when trying to use a Ripping chain to cut at a steep angle.
Do I need a ripping chain?
A properly sharpened and maintained ripping chain is critical to achieving the best possible end result when chainsaw milling. As the teeth on the chain dull, a new replacement chain is needed to keep cuts smooth, efficient, and safe to use.
What angle is a ripping chain?
The teeth on most crosscut chains are sharpened at 35 degrees, while ripping chain teeth are commonly sharpened at 10 degrees, which makes for much faster and more efficient cutting, especially for milling work.
What is a ripping chain called?
Ripping chain is chainsaw chain designed specifically for cutting with the grain. Ripping chain is always micro chisel or semi chisel chain which features a re configured cutting angle of 10 degrees.
What CC is Alaskan mill?
In general, you will need at least 50cc to run our smallest mill (G777). The more powerful your saw, the easier your milling experience is going to be.
How long does it take to mill a log with a chainsaw?
In the world of chainsaw milling, the more powerful the saw the better. You can mill with a smaller saw; however, it’s going to be really slow. On average, it takes me about 10-15 minutes to make one cut using my saw, based on the size logs that I typically cut. Expect that a smaller saw will cut slower.
Can you mill with a 60cc chainsaw?
Re: Husqvarna ChainSaws A 24″ bar is too much for a 60cc saw crosscutting, never mind ripping. Torque and lots of it is required for milling, even with that it is still hard work for the operator and the saw.
What is the number one selling chainsaw?
Stihl 271 Farm Boss Chainsaw STIHL are still the number one selling chainsaw brand in the USA. The Stihl 271 Farm Boss is a great saw for the small farm owner, or if you have a larger section of land with mature trees, and you need a reliable saw that can handle big jobs on a regular basis.
Is McCulloch a good chainsaw?
Whether cutting firewood or felling large trees, all McCulloch chainsaws have strong engines, great ergonomics and superior durability. With a high chain speed, and a slimmed-down lightweight design McCulloch’s chainsaws are probably the smoothest chainsaws you’ve ever tried.
What is the lightest most powerful chainsaw?
Weighing only 5.7 pounds (without bar and chain), ECHO’s CS-2511P is the lightest gas-powered rear-handle chainsaw in the world with the most power in its class, states the company.
Can you cross cut with a ripping chain?
Re: Crosscutting with ripping chain? Yup Results will vary depending on the style ripping chain you have, fewer top plates or less top plate area is going to slow your cut a lot. My 066 cuts like an 046 on steroids when crosscutting with a full comp ripping chain and leaves a smoother surface.
Does skip tooth chain cut faster?
A skip chain has fewer cutting teeth than a conventional chain which means it won’t be dragging as many teeth through the wood you’re cutting. Less drag on the chain means less power is needed to cut through the log. That means the motor on your saw runs faster which keeps it in a more efficient power curve.