Reviews Of The Top Chainsaws For Milling
1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher Chainsaw
Featuring a 60.3cc engine and a 51 cm bar, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is one of the top chainsaws for milling due to its powerful engine
An inertia-activated chain brake ensures your safety in a mechanical failure, which is highly laudable. The x-torque design and 9000 rpm motor speed allow for quick milling using minimal energy and waste. A side-mounted tensioning device allows for easy adjustment of the chains‘ tension.
Due to the machines automatic oiling system, you dont need to spend much time maintaining it. It is easy to use and lightweight, making it portable and ideal for any chainsaw milling task.
2. Echo CS-590-20AA
This 2-stroke, 59.8cc chainsaw is designed for professional use in Alaskan Mills. It delivers consistent performance over long periods.
Manufacturing slabs, beams, and planks from downed trees is a breeze with the Alaskan Mill.Several saws were tested with the Alaskan Mill before we settled on the Echo CS-590-20 as the best option.
The integrated filtration system, automatic oiling system and decompression valve ensure maximum user comfort. The five-year warranty that comes with it also contributed to why it is our second best chainsaw for milling and you wont find this warranty in other chainsaw models.
What We Like
- The fuel tank is translucent
- Excellent engine performance
- Ability to handle multiple layers of wood
3. Coocheer Chainsaw 52CC 51 Cm Gas-Powered Chainsaw
The price of high-end power tools that are built to withstand the demands of milling lumber lumber can be quite expensive. We believe, however, that we have located the perfect saw for a milling job at a reasonable price-a 62cc, 51 cm gas chainsaw from Cocheer.
The components of the Coocheer 62CC chainsaw thoughtfully positioned to provide effortless and balanced operation in your chainsaw milling projects. The handles are firm and provide protection from vibrations caused by the motor and chainbar.
The chain bar is extremely durable, the air filtering system does an admirable job and the automatic oiling system keeps everything running smoothly with minimal maintenance.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly, high-powered chainsaw
- You can use it all-day
- Best chainsaw for comfort
4. Husqvarna 51 Cm 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
This milling chainsaw allows you to choose between an 18- or 51 cm chain bar, which will function admirably with a 55.5 cc gas engine.
The 455 Rancher’s X-Torq engine can cut fuel consumption by as much as 20% compared with conventional engines. It is also 75% more efficient in emissions, making it environmentally friendly and one of the best.
In the event of a mechanical failure, its engine chain brake will engage. We made countless cuts with this saw, which never once slowed down or gave us trouble. Its also remarkably easy to start, especially for gas-powered equipment.
5. Poulan Pro 51 Cm 50cc PR5020
When working through dense forests, the Poulan Pro PR12,751 cms OxyPower engine technology kicks in to give you that extra push you need. This chainsaw is perfectly balanced between power and functionality.
The chainsaws starting mechanism requires 30% less effort than most other models. The ergonomically designed front and back handles allow you to operate the Poulan Pro with utmost control. Stop control is an integral part of the Poulan Pro that prevents engine flooding and allows for rapid engine startup.
This chainsaw features a 51 cm bar, and an excellent air filtering system. It is suitable for both milling and lumber of varying thicknesses.
What We Like
- Excellent air filter system
- User-friendly
- Lightweight
6. XtremepowerUS 56cm 2.4HP 45cc Gas 2-Stroke Chainsaw
The XtremepowerUS 22-inch 2.4HP 45cc is a more affordable option for high-priced Echo and Husqvarna chainsaws.
However, it lacks the strength of its rival but is still handy for cutting and milling fallen trees because of its convenient features. We love the 56 cm bar which is two inches wider than most saws.
The saw fires up so quickly and readily exceeded our expectations. It never gave up, unlike other gas-powered saws. It is 45cc in displacement and only produces 2.4 horsepower. However, it is sufficient to do typical chainsaw milling tasks.
What We Like
- A chainsaw that is affordable for cutting lumber
- EPA-approved
- 56 cm bar for lumber of maximum width
What we don’t like
- You may not have enough power to do some lumber milling jobs.
- A little heavier than the other chainsaws on this list
7. Salem Master 6220G
When it comes to milling lumber with a chainsaw, the Salem Master 6220G is a miraculous find. It is equipped with a 62cc gas-powered engine with extremely low emissions, making it suitable for environmentally sensitive areas.
Safety features such as handguards, a chain brake and handguards are particularly important for lumber-related work. It also came equipped with a decompressing valve to alleviate similar beginning issues.
Finally, the engines cutting power and the chain bars ability to slash through wood make this one of the top chainsaws for a milling attachment and other similar heavy-duty chainsaw milling jobs.
8. Greenworks 40V 41cm Cordless Chainsaw
The fact that an Oregon chain bar is included in this portable sawmill package at no extra cost swayed us to consider purchasing this Greenworks 40V 41 cm professional chainsaw. With it, you may make on-the-fly adjustments to the chains tension without stopping the engine.
Cordless operation and a short chain bar length of 25 cm make this the most transportable option available. You can choose various battery alternatives that boost power and battery timing to get the job done in the middle of nowhere in one fell swoop.
Its lightweight construction, automatic oiling system and wrap-around bale handle make this a great chainsaw for cutting lumber.
What We Like
- Cordless cordless chainsaws at an affordable price
- Good chain bar size and built
- Lightweight
Chainsaw For Milling Buyers Guide
Design And Build
A 14-kg chainsaw is too heavy to be able to cut and lop. You should look for a saw that strikes a decent mix between portability and productivity.
As an added precaution, you shouldnt get an ultra-lightweight saw because of the annoying vibrations it will generate.
Weight
Chainsaws are powerful tools, but regular use may be stressful for an operator. A chainsaw hooked up to a milling machine can cause frame strain.
Most of them are built with sturdy materials, but cutting weight where you can save some is always a good idea.
Compatibility With Mill Attachment
You must ensure the mill connection will work with the chainsaw before settling on a specific model.
There are several options available at various price points, and while it is possible to save money by purchasing a cheaper model, doing so is not ideal unless you plan to buy multiple units.
Lumber Size
A powerful chainsaw is required if the lumber is larger and thicker. You must first determine the engine power available. This will help you decide how much force can be applied.
Even acompact-sized chainsawis adequate for cutting through small to medium-sized timber. You could make quick work of it; however, the precise amount of time you need would depend on the materials dimensions and thickness.
Chainsaw Bar Length
The bar length is crucial for milling in general. Some versions have a 51 cm bar and chain, while others have a much longer blade. You should base your decision on the workpieces youll use.
Power
Cross-sectional cuts are not a good idea when milling wood. This will require constant energy, or a lot of it. When milling equipment is used with other tools, like chainsaws, power restrictions are often in place.
If so, then stick to them. If not, its prudent to search for a powerful chainsaw. Users love the 50 cc option.
Gas Or Electric?
You have to decide between bulk and reliability when selecting a power source. Most gas-powered chainsaws are more efficient at milling lumber than electric ones. They can be used, but they should not be overloaded.
However, they are less noisy, which is an advantage if you plan on doing a lot of cutting. They are designed to be used with standard wall outlets so you can always keep your electricity on. Since there is no engine, these are easier to transport and require less effort to operate.
Maintenance
Due to their perceived difficulty, gas-powered saws are often disregarded. You will need to take care of your saw if you want to get the best out of it.
Some have an automatic mechanism that handles the maintenance. You can save time and money by cleaning the air with air filters and centrifugal systems.
Built-in Safety Features
Chainsaws can be very effective in any situation. You can only imagine the harm they could do to human beings if they are capable of cutting through solid hardwoods.
As a result, you must take every precaution to protect yourself from these lethal devices. Many businesses have made chainsaws with security and safety in mind.
A modern chainsaw can have low kickback, an inertia activated chain brake, guards and a chain collector.
Price
Choose the cheaper chainsaw if you choose between two that work with your milling machine. Keep in mind that the cost exceeds the retail value of the saw. Consider the ongoing operating costs , such as gas, maintenance, and repairs.
There Are Many Reasons To Use A Chainsaw For Milling
Anybody who has seen the size of the lumbers required to be milled will understand the logistics. There are also expenses for labor and space at a neighboring lumber factory, where the logs are transformed into boards.
A chainsaw mill will be extremely handy if you need to construct a building some distance from the nearest fixed lumber mill. The cost of a chainsaw is much lower than that of a traditional sawmill, so you can get both cost savings and convenience from buying one.
FAQ
Do I need a specific chain to operate a chainsaw?
Yes, you need a special chain called a ripping chain or ripper chain for a chainsaw mill. Ripping chains are used to make parallel cuts along the grain of the wood instead of perpendicular cuts.
Are milling saws difficult to use due to vibrations?
Incorrect machining procedures cause harmful vibrations. In general, the vibration of a chainsaw is unavoidable. Many of the top-of-the-line chainsaws have vibration-less features that reduce vibration.
