Alaska Sawmill Setup - 1st Cut- pics -1

[jerry cousins]

Here's a technique for setting the 1st cut with an Alaskan Mill.

Put 2 nails in the ends of the log - pic 1 – roughly the same height from the bottom of the log. Then put in 2 nails on the top of the log at each end – about the same spacing as the end nails. Level the 2 nails to each end – note.. the pairs of nails (2 at each end of the log) do not need to be level to each other.

Tie a string to one of the end nails – draw it up and over the nail on top – stretch it down the length of the log – on top of the nail at the other end – down to the nail in the end - wrap it around – then wrap it around the other end nail – and again stretch it up and over the top nail and down the log - tie it off to the nail in the end (your’re back where you started) – pics 3 & 4.

see the next post

jerry

[jerry cousins]

You should now have to strings stretched tightly and kind of parallel to each other. Take some more nails and put them in the length of the log to the height of the string – pics 5 & 6. (last of the pictures) I usually space them 12- 15”. And take care that they get a good purchase in the log – more than just in the bark – they will need to withstand some torque (you may need to lower the 2 pairs at each to make sure). I favor 20d box nails. And if your log has a big “wow” in the center you may have to make the top end nails deeper.

Once you have the nails in place remove the string and the 4 nails in the ends of the log. Now you have a flat “bed of nails” running the length of the log. Lay a straight guide board (maybe a 2x12) on the nails. Adjust your chainsaw mill for a depth of cut that is greater than the thickness of the guide board and the length of the nails + “a scooch” more just to be sure.

The guide board does not need to be as long as the log – you can begin the cut – cut to the length of the guide board - take a break - and then carefully slide the board further down the “bed of nails” to finish the cut – or as many times as you need. After the first cut -remove the guide board – pull all the nails – take off the top cut and you have a flat surface from then on.

One of the nice things about this method is that you can use the guide board over and over – you don’t have to nail or screw it to the log – then dig the nails out – over and over. The only consumables are the bent nails.

I hope this makes sense. Be glad to answer any questions if something is unclear.

Jerry

[Timo Christ]

Thank You Jerry!