A chainsaw mill is an indispensable tool for anyone cutting lumber. However, neglecting factors like cutting depth and bar capacity can lead to incorrectly sized pieces.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional looking for an alternative, I have done the work for you and tested the best chainsaw mills in this review!
Reviews of the Top Chainsaw Mills
1. Granberg Alaskan Chain Saw Mill G777
First up on this list is the Granberg Alaskan Chainsaw Mill G777. The steel construction of this chainsaw mill provides loggers with the highest form of durability against all types of timber.
The compact and portable mill can handle timber anywhere from 0.5-inches to 13 inches thick and up to 17 inches wide. You can attach this chainsaw mill without a drilling bar, which significantly cuts down the installation time especially for a beginner.
All that is required for attachment is tightening the pressure bolts. Since the mill is smaller, it is best used on chainsaws with a 20-inch bar or less.
What I Like
- The durable steel construction
- It is a smaller portable chainsaw mill
- There is no drilling required for pairing
- It works with a variety of timber
- It can cut timber 0.5-inches to 13 inches thick and up to 17 inches wide
- The handle is easy to grip
- Upgraded end brackets
What I Don’t Like
- It doesn’t fit larger chainsaws
- Its availability can vary
2. Granberg MK-IV Alaskan Chainsaw Mill G778
The G778 Granberg Alaskan Chainsaw Mill has 30-inch rails and can cut lumber between 0.5 to 13-inches thick and all the way up to 27-inches wide. It is designed and made in the USA and features top-quality steel and aluminum construction.
The MK-IV is a great milling machine and a heavy-duty workhorse model for a woodworker who needs larger slabs. The mounting to the chain bar takes no more than tightening a few bolts without the need for drilling.
The MK-IV Alaskan chainsaw mill is a better fit for larger saws to handle the challenges of larger jobs.
What I Like
- It mounts to the chainsaw easily
- It is still lightweight for the bigger size and length
- It is manufactured and designed in the USA
- Steel and aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- It can cut bigger slabs of lumber
- It is equipped with CNC-machined billet and brackets
- It creates less vibration during use
- Workers can use a ripping chain with this model
What I Don’t Like
- It is priced higher
- Modifications may be required for some saws
3. HiHydro Portable Chainsaw Mill
For a user looking for affordability and versatility, I highly recommend the HiHydro Portable Chainsaw Mill. This lumber mill suits a chainsaw with an 18 to 36-inch bar length.
The most outstanding feature of the HiHydro chainsaw mill isn’t the price but the aluminum and stainless steel construction. The entire mill is well-built, which explains the added weight.
However, there are various sizes to choose from to suit the cutting depth required and the measurements of your chainsaw bar. The assembly isn’t also difficult and the large chainsaw mill can create lumber at 0.5-13 inches thick and an impressive 36-inch width.
What I Like
- It is sturdy and well-built
- It is made with aircraft-grade aluminum and stainless steel
- It is affordable
- It can accommodate many chainsaw bar sizes
- There's no drilling required
- It can cut larger lumber
What I Don’t Like
- It is heavier
- You'll need to assemble it
4. Carmyra Portable Chainsaw Mill
The Carmyra Portable Chainsaw Mill provides the user with even more options for bar length. The combination of steel and aluminum in its construction is ideal for chainsaws and their accessories.
The Carmyra chainsaw mill can cut beams 0.5 to 13-inches thick and up to 36-inch in width. It provides as much versatility as the HiHydro, but for a slightly higher price.
The high-quality chainsaw mill bar comes with various attachments and accessories, such as the assembling tool and the instruction manual. The milling can be adjusted at different widths and heights, and the sawmill can be attached to the chainsaw bar directly.
What I Like
- It fits chainsaw bars from 14 to 36-inches in length
- It is made from aircraft aluminum and stainless steel
- Installation is a breeze
- It attaches easily to the chainsaw bars without drilling
- The handle is comfortable
- It can cut a log of up to 36 inches in width
- It is a good fit for small to large logs
What I Don’t Like
- It is a little heavy
- Assembling it takes time
5. Imony Chainsaw Mill
The Imony Home Chainsaw Mill is one that is lightweight and durable, crafted from the same aluminum and steel material as the others on this list.
Pieces of wood will be no match for the Imony mill as it can turn any chainsaw with a 10 to 36-inch bar length into a milling machine. The saw can be used for both planking and milling and is effective on logs at home or in the woods.
This chainsaw tool is also lightweight but tough. A key factor that places the Imony mill among the best chainsaw mills is its lifetime warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee, offering peace of mind and assurance of quality.
What I Like
- The robust construction
- It is made from aircraft aluminum and stainless steel
- It is portable
- It is excellent for planking and milling lumber
- It is a great fit for professional-grade chainsaws
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- It is covered by a lifetime warranty
- The price is reasonable
What I Don’t Like
- It is a little heavy
- It is not as precise for planks thinner than 1 inch
6. Haddon Lumbermaker
The name outlines the capabilities of this lumber cutting guide tool. The Haddon Lumbermaker can cut any size of timber you need from a log right where it calls. Other than creating planks, the Haddon Lumbermaker can make beams and boards.
A notable feature of this tool is its ability to accommodate chainsaws of any size without the need for a drilling bar. This flexibility extends to its capacity for plunge cuts, adding to its versatility. Additionally, the Haddon Lumbermaker chainsaw mill comes with a lifetime guarantee, underscoring its durability and reliability.
What sets this chainsaw mill apart is its portability. Weighing in at just 3.59 pounds, it’s one of the most transportable options available, making it an excellent choice for those who need a lightweight and easily movable milling solution.
What I Like
- The Haddon Lumbermaker is very lightweight
- It can fit a regular type of chainsaw and swivel for plunge cuts
- It comes with a lifetime guarantee
- It can cut any size of lumber
- It fits with any size chainsaw
- It can create boards, beams, or planks
What I Don’t Like
- It requires a ripping chain for easier use
- The screws aren’t very tight
7. XRKJ Chainsaw Mill
If milling is a frequent requirement in your lumber operations, I recommend the XRKJ Chainsaw Mill for its aluminum rails and high-quality steel frame. The XRKJ chainsaw mill offers easy adjustability for plank height and width and attaches directly to your chainsaw bar.
The saw mill can work well with logs under 36 inches and can cut a piece of wood within the 0.5 to 12-inch range for thickness. This chain saw mill is a larger size and is better suited for chainsaws with a 12 to 36-inch bar size capacity.
What I Like
- It's great for logs under 36-inches
- It fits chainsaw bars 12 to 36-inches long
- It can create planks 0.5 to 12-inches thick
- Aluminum and steel construction
- It attaches without drilling
What I Don’t Like
- It is relatively heavier than the other options listed
- You'll need to assemble it
8. Popsport Chainsaw Mill
The portability of this model offers users the flexibility of working on logs at home or in the woods. Constructed from aluminum and galvanized steel, the Popsport Chainsaw Mill is designed to reduce vibration, which enhances accuracy and adjustability during operation.
The Popsport chainsaw mill is best used with chainsaws that have a 14 to a 34-inch bar. Although it comes unassembled, the chainsaw tool can be easily put together with the help of all the included parts and instructions.
It doesn’t matter if you are a professional woodworker or a homeowner; the Popsport model can help you create your lumber.
What I Like
- It is easy to install
- The height is adjustable
- It can accommodate 14 to 34-inch chainsaw bars
- The frame is made of aluminum and steel for less vibration
- It allows for more accurate operations
- It is portable
What I Don’t Like
- It is a little heavier
- Its availability can vary
9. Wood-CNL Chainsaw Mill
Steel and aluminum are crucial materials in chainsaw mills, as they contribute to making the saw mill lighter and more manageable. The Wood-CNL Chainsaw Mill stands out in this regard for its versatility, fitting chainsaw bars ranging from 10 to 36 inches.
The portable size makes this easy to carry and for users to work on logs in the woods or homes.This chainsaw mill can handle logs up to 36 inches in diameter, effectively transforming a regular chainsaw into a milling machine.
Additionally, the Wood CNL chainsaw mill comes with the assurance of a lifetime warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, making it a reliable and risk-free investment for both professional and home use.
What I Like
- It has a lightweight and portable profile
- It fits chainsaw bars 10 to 36-inches in length
- It can create lumber from logs up to 36-inches in diameter
- It can be used with a ripping chain
- It comes with a lifetime warranty
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
What I Don’t Like
- You'll need to assemble it
- It's not the cheapest mill out there
10. Timber Tuff TMS-24
The Timber Tuff Chainsaw Mill is a 24-inch saw mill that is compatible with 16 to 24-inch chain options. However, the Timber Tuff construction from aircraft aluminum and high-quality steel makes it one model that can go head-to-head with most logs.
Attaching the Timber Tuff mill to your chainsaw bar is straightforward, and it’s designed to be lightweight, ensuring it doesn’t add much weight during operation. Its size is versatile, making it ideal for both large and small jobs, allowing you to create the lumber you require for any project.
When the Timber Tuff chainsaw mill is paired with a rip chain, it almost doubles the power and gets through the logs faster.
What I Like
- The durable construction ensures longevity
- It is an excellent lumber cutting guide
- The Timber Tuff mill works with rip chains
- It has an easy attachment
- It is suitable for large and small jobs
- It has a portable design
- Good cutting depth
- It is covered by a 1-year manufacturer warranty
- It can create thinner planks than 0.5
What I Don’t Like
- It may not be compatible with other chainsaws
- The instructions are a bit vague
Chainsaw Mill Buying Guide
Do you need your own lumber? Instead of having to go to the store or saw mill near you to get the perfect measurements, grain, and texture, you can create your own!
But without knowing the details of what makes the best chainsaw mill, you might get a product that may not be compatible with your saw or can’t cut through the log-in question. So, here’s a buying guide to help you pick the right chainsaw mill model for your wood pieces.
Design and Compatibility
The most important ingredient to finding the right chainsaw mill is its compatibility with your saw. Labeled as the bar capacity, bar measurement, or length of the bar, chainsaw mills come in various sizes meant for different chainsaw bars.
Manufacturers will list out the kind of chainsaw and the bar length the mill is best used with. The size of the saw bar dictates the width of the log you can mill.
For your convenience, I made sure to include options such as the Timber Tuff and Granberg models, to name a few, that can attach to your saw tool without having to drill.
Tightening the bolts is a lot easier than using a different way and customizing the entire saw. Our team also suggests looking for another ripping chain for more power with each cut.
You Might Be Interested In: Top Chainsaw Winch
Size and Weight
When choosing any type of electric tool, our team suggests refraining from choosing heavy models. Not only will a lightweight mill promise longer working times, but it also puts less strain and fatigue on your arms.
Most of the sizes chosen by our experts above fall around 10 pounds or under. The lighter the chainsaw mill the more portable it is. Some users need to mill logs in the woods, and no one wants to log a heavy piece of equipment for long distances. If you have a vehicle, then it’s easy to haul it onto the back and transport it that way.
This is not to say a heavier chainsaw mill doesn’t have its benefits. Some models our team chose are around 15 pounds and can provide stability and dampen vibrations.
Cutting Capacity
The next consideration is the cutting capacity or cutting depth. These numbers determine what logs you can work on and the size of wood you can create.
Luckily, the cutting depth is usually adjustable and will be clearly labeled in the product description. The thickness will usually be around 0.5 to 13 inches, like most of the chainsaw mills I picked out, and around 27 to 36 in width.
To find the right one, take a look at your usual projects or and assess the thickness of the lumber you need. From there, you can look at the specs for each product and narrow down your choices. Remember that the cutting capacity also correlates to the bar length.
Material and Durability
You can find portable chainsaw mills constructed from either material, but I suggest you look for options that combine both. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of both mobility and durability in a portable chainsaw mill.
Assembly and Ease of Use
Since chainsaw mills are adjustable, you want to be able to do so with minimal effort. The ease of use for any tool is important, and even more so for the chainsaw mill. Most of these mills come unassembled for transportation purposes.
There is no use for a chainsaw mill, no matter how good it is if you can’t put it together. This is when the readability of the instructions comes in. Not only should there be diagrams on the manual, but the parts should be clearly labeled and the instructions are written out plainly.
Value for Money
Before taking the plunge and purchasing a new tool, you should outline your budget. You have to be ready to compromise because sometimes the cheapest model may not live up to your needs.
A good way to reduce the number of potential candidates is to look for chainsaw mills that can do the job and then find ones that fall under or closest to your price range.
Make sure you assess the quality, assembly, and compatibility before making your final decision. One influencing factor that could also impact the product’s price from a long-term viewpoint is the customer satisfaction guarantees and warranties.
Imagine purchasing chainsaw mills without a warranty [1]. You would need to replace the entire model instead of just sending it in for repairs, which could cost you more money in the long run.
Looking for a product that protects buyers will save you from a lot of hassle down the road. Most of the models in this article come with at least a 1-year warranty, with many offering lifetime options.
Advantages of Using Chainsaw Mills
Why use a chainsaw mill when you have a perfectly good bandsaw in the garage? Are there any benefits to purchasing an additional add-on? Even though they aren’t very pricey, chainsaw mills can provide an array of advantages to the user.
For one thing, you can save on the cost of purchasing pre-milled lumber and it will save you more time by not visiting stores like Home Depot to cut your lumber. Commercial lumber available for purchase is marked up, so if you can mill lumber in your backyard or the woods, you can save a lot of money.
If you already have a chainsaw, you will only need to consider the price of the chainsaw mill. You may be hesitant if you don’t have a powerful chainsaw at your disposal. For those with this trusted power tool, adding a mill only increases the versatility of your saw.
(Looking for a powerful and reliable tool for your mill? Here’s a list of the top Stihl chainsaws for you. Read next! )
If you are someone who wants to create masterpieces from the ground up, owning a chainsaw mill will allow you to start from scratch and mill lumber on your own. Not to mention, milling lumber is a hard workout for your arms, but if you have a chainsaw mill plus a ripping chain, if applicable, it can greatly minimize the work.
There are also the portability and the time-saving aspects that really make a chainsaw mill a necessary addition. Not all saws designed to cut slabs of wood are portable. However, a mill is guaranteed to be easily transported wherever you go.
Building something in the great outdoors, such as picnic tables and benches or a log cabin, requires the space the woods can offer and the materials. It’s much easier to do the planking and milling then and there than to transport the logs back home.
Moreover, compared to bandsaw mills, chainsaw mills are more affordable, have a more compact profile, and better for smaller jobs. They also have a wider kerf.
Also, a bandsaw mill is the better choice for heavy-duty jobs and large-scale productions. It has a more complex design and is more expensive than chainsaw mills. These mills also have a smaller kerf size and are more efficient.
How Does a Chainsaw Mill Work?
If you’re new to chainsaw mills, the contraption may look complicated at first. How exactly do you apply it to the wood or log to create the perfect piece of lumber?
If you’re a beginner, I suggest picking thicker logs. Your first time operating a chainsaw mill won’t be as accurate as a seasoned one, so the larger surface will be easier to work with.
Start by checking your chainsaw to make sure the bar is lubricated, the chain is in place, and the battery power is charged at full, or the fuel tank is full. Layout the log you choose and plot the cutting path with chalk for convenience. Set the depth you want for the wood, place the mill on the log, start it up, and drag it along the surface.
Tips in Using a Chainsaw Mill
If this is your first time operating a chainsaw mill, I have a few tips to make the experience smoother.
Remember that the chainsaw mill is just an accessory, and the chainsaw itself is the key to cutting logs and getting the pieces of wood you want. This means you have to make sure to check everything before starting the task. Start by looking at the bar, checking if the battery or fuel tank is complete, and adjusting or sharpening the chain.
Next, check the chainsaw mill for loose parts or faulty assembly. You do not want the tool to come apart halfway through a job.
During the job, you will notice a lot of dust and debris coming off of the log. I highly suggest working on the wood outdoors where the sawdust can efficiently dissipate.
Make sure that you are standing upwind so the dust doesn’t get blown back into your face.
Once you embark on the cut, try to finish it off in one swift and continuous motion without interruption. I have seen some beginners going by instinct and moving the tool in a back-and-forth motion. Doing so will create a rough texture on the surface, which is not what most woodworkers want.
Always make sure you finish a cut and run the saw across the entire wood surface. Placing the log on a slight slant is a good trick to minimize the force you need to cut through the log.
When you finish the job, do not shut off the chainsaw immediately. Let the engine run for a good 30 seconds and let it cool.
When you’re satisfied with the log pieces, you can paint the surface with a protective coating, so it’s impervious to the elements if you need to store them for later use.
Speaking of storage, make sure you place them somewhere dry. Wood is susceptible to temperature fluctuations and humidity, so try to keep the lumber covered with a tarp.
FAQ
What size chainsaw is best for milling?
The best size for a chainsaw for milling is around 20-inches. This is the best balance between small and large blades, but chainsaw mills can fit chainsaws with bars from 10 to 36 inches. The best size is dependent on the kind of project and the size of lumber you need.
My Top Pick For a Chainsaw Mill: Granberg Alaskan G777
Out of the best chainsaw mills I’ve tried, the Granberg G777 Alaskan Chain Saw stood out.
Not only is the G777 a lightweight and portable saw mill, but it also doesn’t require drilling to fit with your chainsaw. Additionally, it features a polycarbonate guard for enhanced safety. This model has been designed to minimize vibrations during use, which significantly increases accuracy in cutting.
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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