A Beginner’s Guide to Chainsaw Chains for Lumber Milling

Using a chainsaw mill to transform raw logs into custom lumber is one of the most rewarding activity in woodworking or DIY projects. However, choosing the right chainsaw chain is critical to ensuring efficiency, precision, and quality in your milling process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting and maintaining chainsaw chains for milling lumber with Granberg International’s industry-leading tools.

Why the Right Chainsaw Chain Matters for Milling

Not all chainsaw chains are created equal. When it comes to milling 101, the chain you choose can directly impact the quality of your slabs, the strain on your chainsaw, and the amount of time you spend working.

• Cut Quality: A ripping chain ensures smooth, consistent cuts with minimal tear-out.
• Efficiency: The right chainsaw chain reduces resistance and allows your mill to glide through the log with ease.
• Equipment Longevity: Using the proper chain minimizes wear and tear on your chainsaw bar, sprocket, and powerhead.

What Makes a Good Chainsaw Chain for Milling?

Ripping Chains

A ripping chain is designed specifically for cutting logs along the grain rather than across it. These chains:

✔ Feature a shallower filing angle (typically 10 degrees instead of the 30-degree angle on crosscut chains).

✔ Reduce resistance to prevent excess strain on your chainsaw mill and engine.

✔ Deliver smoother, more precise cuts, producing beautiful slabs with a smooth finish.

✔ Improve fuel efficiency and reduce overheating, especially when paired with an auxiliary oiler.

Granberg ripping chains have a unique modification that enables faster cutting speeds compared to any other brand.

Standard Crosscut Chains

• Designed for felling and bucking
• Cuts across the grain rather than along it
• Not optimized for milling but useful for prepping logs

While a crosscut chain is versatile, it is not ideal for milling lumber, as it can create excessive sawdust and rough surfaces on cut slabs.

Setting Up for Success: Beginner’s guide to Choosing Equipment

Pairing Your Chainsaw with a Chainsaw Mill

Using a Granberg Alaskan Chainsaw Mill allows you to mill logs into slabs of the exact thickness you need. However, it’s essential to pair the mill with the right chainsaw.

• A professional-grade chainsaw with an engine size of at least 70cc ensures enough power to handle large logs efficiently. Smaller logs (10-18″) can be tackles with a smaller saw, but no saw smaller than 50cc is recommended.
• Choose a bar and chain length suited to your specific project—the longer the bar length, the wider the log you can mill.
• Consider adding an auxiliary oiler for improved lubrication during long cuts.

✔ Pro Tip: Ensure your chainsaw bar is at least 6 inches longer than the log diameter for optimal cutting performance.

Selecting the Right Ripping Chain

A ripping chain is critical for effective milling. Granberg International offers high-quality chains designed to match your chainsaw bar and enhance the milling process.

Key Benefits of Using a Ripping Chain:

✔ Reduced engine strain for longer tool life.

✔ Improved fuel efficiency during extended cutting logs sessions.

✔ Smoother, more consistent cuts for beautiful slabs with minimal sanding required.

Optimizing Chainsaw Chain Maintenance for Milling

Proper maintenance of your chainsaw chain ensures safety, efficiency, and durability. Follow these tips for optimal performance:

1. Sharpen the Chain Regularly

A dull chain increases resistance, requiring more effort to cut logs and reducing efficiency.

• Use tools like Granberg’s Precision Grinder for quick and accurate sharpening.
• Keep a sharpening file in your milling kit to make quick adjustments in the field.
• If you notice burn marks or excessively powdery sawdust instead of wood shavings, your chain needs sharpening.

2. Lubricate Properly

Milling puts extended strain on your chainsaw mill, requiring proper lubrication.

• Always use bar oil to keep the chain saw running smoothly.
• For long bars (over 64″) AND double end bars, use an auxiliary oiler to prevent overheating and reduce wear on the bar and mill.
• Check oil flow regularly to ensure proper distribution along the saw chain.

3. Check Chain Tension

Proper chain tension is essential to avoid derailment or excessive wear.

• A loose chain can jump off the bar, causing serious damage.
• An overly tight chain creates excess friction and strain.
• Adjust the sprocket tension so the chain moves freely but does not sag.

4. Inspect for Wear and Replace as Needed

Over time, even the best chainsaw chains wear down. Check the:

✔ Cutting teeth for dullness.

✔ Rivets and links for excessive play.

✔ End of the bar for wear from improper alignment.

If you notice major wear or cracking, replace your chain immediately to maintain cutting performance.

Understanding Log Handling and Setup for Efficient Lumber Milling

While we have removed the Making Your First Cut section per client request, it’s still essential to discuss the setup process for smooth chainsaw milling.

1. Positioning Your Logs

• Place logs on a stable surface or raised platform.
• Secure logs using wedges or chocks to prevent rolling.
• Use guide rails, such as the Granberg EZ-Rail System, for a flat reference that ensures even, level cuts.

2. Managing Log Moisture for Better Milling

• “Green” logs are easier to cut, abut are more subject to checking and warping as they dry. “Seasoned” logs are harder to cut, but being mostly dry will experience less adverse effects as they continue to lose moisture
• Allow air to circulate around cut slabs to prevent warping.
• The general rule is one year per inch of thickness for air-drying.

✔ Pro Tip: Use stickers (thin strips of wood) between slabs to improve air circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What’s the difference between a ripping chain and a standard chain?

A ripping chain is designed for cutting along the grain, producing smoother, more precise cut slabs, whereas a standard crosscut chain is optimized for felling and bucking.

Q: What size chainsaw is best for a chainsaw mill?

A chainsaw with an engine size of at least 70cc is recommended for effective milling, as it provides sufficient power for cutting logs.

Q: How do I maintain my chainsaw mill and chain?

Regularly clean and lubricate your mill, sharpen the chain after every few uses, and inspect for wear. Granberg’s tools make maintenance quick and easy.

Q: What thickness should I cut my slabs?

Slab thickness depends on your project, but 2–4 inches is a common range. Thicker slabs take longer to dry logs but are less likely to warp.

Enhance Your Chainsaw Milling Experience with Granberg International

With the right chainsaw chains, tools, and setup, lumber milling becomes an exciting and rewarding process. Granberg International provides everything you need, from ripping chains to guide rails, helping you mill logs efficiently and with precision.

Take control of your projects, craft beautiful slabs, and unlock the full potential of your logs with Granberg’s Alaskan Chainsaw Mill. Explore our full range of products today and turn your milling vision into reality!