Chainsaw Guide for Cutting Logs

Are you looking for another option besides spending money on fire logs? If so, you may want to consider purchasing your own chainsaw or chainsaw mill. At L-M Equipment Co. Inc., we offer exceptional and dependable chainsaw mills for sale.

Let’s look at how you can get started with a portable chainsaw for your log cutting needs.

Select the Type of Chainsaw

Options are available between gas powered and electric chainsaws. The one you choose will depend on several factors that include:

  • Your budget
  • Size of the logs or trunks you expect to cut
  • Your cutting experience
  • The cutting environment in which you will perform the work

Use Protective Equipment

For your safety, in addition to the chainsaw, you also need several pieces of protective equipment, including:

  • Safety glasses (protecting your entire face is recommended)
  • Heavy-duty gloves
  • Chainsaw chaps
  • Hearing protection
  • Helmet

Divide the Cutting in Sections

Before you start cutting it’s beneficial to divide the trunk or logs into parts by marking off sections – for example, every 3 feet. In this way, you will not have to re-measure each time you want to begin cutting and you will know exactly where to cut each time.

Choose a Cutting Surface

You will need to choose a cutting surface. You have two options.

Option 1: Cut from the Ground

If the trunk you intend to cut is positioned securely on the ground, you can cut it right there without attempting to relocate it. However, use wedge to ensure the trunk or log does not roll. Also, avoid cutting into the ground which can damage your chain and the surface.

Cutting from this position simply:

  • Start the chainsaw and have it run at low speed
  • Position the saw over the pre-marked cutting locations
  • Saw 3/4 of the way through the trunk
  • Repeat the process at each pre-marked location
  • Rotate the trunk 180°
  • Complete the cut, sawing through from the opposite side

Option 2: Cut from a Support

By cutting a V-shaped groove of a large section of the trunk, you can create your own DIY support. This will offer you more ergonomic working posture and also help you protect your chainsaw. All that is necessary is to stabilize the support and position the trunk within the groove. From there, with a slow running chain, you can start cutting through the pre-marked spots.

For information about chainsaw mills we offer as well any of our other cutting products, give us a call today at 503.235.3146 or 800.228.0793. Or, simply drop us a message by using our contact form.