Simple Off Grid Log Cabin Build: Easy Wall Construction (Butt And Pass)

I decided to go with the Butt And Pass method on this log cabin build. It’s is very simple and the walls go up fast.
#offgrid #cabin #logcabin

[@alinedoyle4914]

The fall colors, skeeter and the chickens, and a guy building a log cabin, perfect!

[@robb4044]

This is one method they used in way back in the 1600's and 1700's and probably before that precisely because it it simple and fast. When a family moved onto a piece of land they had to have something to live in and they needed it soon. Also, you are absolutely correct about the orientation of the logs (fat side, thin side, ect.) for this kind of structure, but when the trappers built their 'trapper' cabins a lot of the times they would orient them in the same direction front to back and then when it was high enough they'd put a flat roov on it and it would already have the angle it needed. Good very information and educational vid. I actually watched these vids of your on my other account but I enjoyed them so much when I saw it come up on my feed in this account I wanted to watch it again.

[@Leeofthestorm]

A couple things to consider. A nail, such as you are using with a pointed end can create a split in your log. Most people doing this method use cut peices of rebar with a flat/perpendicular cut end, which pushes through the wood without splitting; it takes more work but eliminates this potential. The other is to ensure that you have a window and door plan, or really map out where your spikes or metal pins are so that you do not hit them with your chainsaw when you cut out your openings. The Butt and Pass method is indeed very fast, and it is great to see you using Aspen as well, as many do not think it is a great source for building.

[@johncarter9054]

Yes, I agree. Ive built 4 different styles of Log homes. The butt and lap method is my least favorite because of the extra time spent chinking the corners. The saddle notch looks better but even tho you dont have to chink the corners there is still lots of chinking to be done on both sides of every wall log. The full scribe does take a bit longer but no chinking needs to be done at all and no nails, spikes or re-bar is required. The butt and lap method has the advantage of being sturdier and goes up quicker at the start, but it takes the same time down the home stretch because of the massive chinking at the finish. You are correct about the re-bar being better than the nails. The proper way is to use 1/2 in re-bar (far cheaper than nails) and drill thru the upper log but not so much in the lower log. Logs never do stop shrinking in diameter so the re-bar will never move. This makes for a sturdier setup, if a person can get past the "looks difference" and the extra chinking, then so be it. Ive seen some builders spike the saddle notch and even the full scribe. Bad idea, as the logs will continue to shrink and the likely hood of gaps showing up increases.

[@danbooher5843]

U drill a hole first and the log wouldn't split.

[@MortifiedU]

Thank you, answered my question re spikes, I was wondering about the splitting potential 👍🏻

[@andrewsousa26]

simply pre-drilling the nail holes can alleviate this problem of the wood potentially splitting

[@andrewsousa26]

@Haun Lou you don't get lose fits if you know what you are doing you pre drill a size smaller than the nail so it fits snug and doesn't split the wood, as well drilling isn't really that hard and doesn't take that long or very much effort so i'm not sure what you are taking about and many master craftsman build their log cabins in this respect so for you to sit back and call it stupid doesn't mean much

[@connieroose8210]

Thanks for showing us different ways to build a cabin.

[@ramzzzz1053]

The accuracy with the hammer is impressive my friend.

[@schlapcity2774]

Honestly. I was worried when I saw him pull out that framing hammer, but when I saw him wail on that thing accurate as hell it was definitely something

[@chantaln6843]

Amazing how the animals are loyal. They remain close to you as a show of solidarity, since you’re hanging outside with them… 😊

[@YouTuber-s9l]

As long as you're not a dumb weirdo and you spend enough soul bonding time with them then your animals will trust you and your dog will be your most loyal friend.

[@restfulcube-notyet]

holy crap I didn't realize you could make a log cabin without knotches. PLEASE keep these videos coming - really want to see how it turns out

[@kathyfragassi8399]

Love how you explain everything and show how to correct things. This is a very easy method. Thank you for showing us.

[@shelsishroyer1405]

This is my dream for me and my daughters to build our own little log cabin. Glad you are showing a video step by step! Thanks this is very interesting!

[@markmorris3579]

I love the sound of the wind thru the trees,that's why fall is my favorite season.And I love living in New England,where we do have four seasons.

[@davestelling]

Autumn in Maine, nuthin' like it anywhere...

[@josephbarnett2566]

Yea..building a similar but 3 sided Adirondack style near Bucksport maine...fun watching!

[@sandrasherritt9708]

actually Kyle, those are some beautiful chickens. They look happy out there with you, scratching around amongst the fall leaves, for bugs and things. Looking for to more cabin progress too! thanks for sharing. Camarillo grammy. So Calif.

[@deanmarshall6345]

I love seeing Skeeter and the chickens just hanging out like their family now. Thanks for showing this all the way through one piece at a time. This method seems more tedious and depends on the spikes for structural strength. Whereas the traditional notch method provides strength naturally and just seems easier. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series, and if you could explain more about why this method is easier they would be amazing.

[@chasman9662]

Thank you for a great video with no music. The sound of building is music enough.

[@mmnmslmn]

Most clever method in youtube. I was thinking of building vertical, to eliminate notching but this makes sense too.

[@AndrewRusk]

I could watch Kyle build stuff for hours and hours. What a cool guy!

[@highlandyankee8277]

Simple effective method and well explained without extraneous chatting. Hate to sound like the old guy lecturing but please consider eye protection and chaps. Split my cornea from a chip in the eye while hewing. It can just happen in an instant and you're on the ground wondering what the hell just happened. The bright clean wood of the Aspen looks great. Good on you man

[@gothicshadowstgg]

Always fun and interesting watching your videos. No one can ever call you lazy.

[@gpabui5256]

Thank you to show us the “quicker” method to build log cabin. So good to learn from you ❤

[@mchurch3905]

Looks good. One thing I would do. Years ago I met a log home contractor on-site for a bid. A month later I met him again, this time he wore a permanent eye patch due to a broken spike head destroying his eye. Safety glasses, my young friend.

[@TheHighAngler]

For a guy like me watching this has been great so far. Personally I’m learning some great things. Thank you for putting this little series together!

[@KYLESCABIN]

Thank you for watching!

[@robinmoore5181]

You are doing an amazing job. Chickens and Skeeter get along well and that's great. 🌸🌸🌸

[@Wiseash2023]

This is the most clear and educational video I have ever watched about off the grid living. I didn’t even know you had to shave a log to eliminate gaps. I’m so happy to have this knowledge

[@lucaslock4298]

What does off grid mean?

[@mattwinnekens8035]

Or just use mud to close gaps

[@larrymayberry2312]

I enjoy watching you build your cabins. Something about it soothes my soul. Thanks Kyle.

[@KYLESCABIN]

I’m glad you enjoy it. I enjoy sharing it.

[@KYLESCABIN]

I’m glad you enjoy it. I enjoy sharing it.

[@carolreiter6157]

Hi Kyle, now I want to bring out my Lincoln logs and build a cabin with you. Barbie & Ken will love a new log cabin to live in. Lol

[@rickhager7978]

Your talents are amazing. I love how the chickens hang around you just like Skeeter. I look forward to every video.

[@lindadobberstein2035]

It’s impressive watching you swing that hammer! Ahh! Youth!

[@insanitology]

You should get yourself a proper beater. As an Ironworker, I've always made my own. 8 or 10lb head on an axe handle cut down to anywhere from 15 to 20 inches. Cut the axe handle down to where it becomes round to fit the head. Use an axe handle that has that nice outward curve at the bottom for some extra leverage. Wrap some rubber just under the head and some rope about the thickness of your pinky finger down the handle with about 1 to 2 inch spacing. Then wrap it all up with hockey tape. In my experience, the best legnth is the top of the head to the end of the handle from your fingertips to your elbow. It's your preference, though. The weight depends on your swing. 10 lbs for overhead and 8lbs for swinging from the ear or from the side. But again... preference. After you find exactly how you like it, your new beater will be your most valued tool.

[@richardhussey171]

Instead of butting both ends of a log, you could butt one end and pass the other end. (This is similar to the alternating rows of bricks in stretcher bond brickwork. ) In that way you could cut the passing end when you are finished pinning the butted end. Alternating the direction with thick and thin AND with butt and pass will give you an even faster method and easier working - especially when working alone. It will also eliminate that gap between the ground and the row you butted both ends.

[@richardhussey171]

Correction: The gap is between the second row that you pass both ends !

[@rickatill44]

you have no idea how happy i came across this vid today ...long story love ta tell ya all but in short a deal went sour paid a guy ta flat 2 sides a logs for me band mill waited all summer lol he gave money back i was so down i wanted a log camp ....i watched this at 5pm here jumped up went out back cut 4 logs barked them and in place !!!! man you inspired me big time please please keep updating us on this build i wanna follow you to a tee ! im in Canada 🇨🇦 im hoping when im done i can send you a picture you have no idea jus how much you helped me today thank you !!!

[@klancyjones726]

Looking good Kyle. It's gonna be a nice cabin when complete. I'm anxious for your next video. Thanks for sharing ! 🇺🇸

[@charlesschultz6797]

The old timers didn't have safety glasses either, looking good ✌️🙌💪👍

[@larrybuehler6246]

Great video, I have been following your channel for a while now. I am 66 years of age and wish I would have tryed to build one when I was a younger man. Keep the videos coming, I sure enjoy watching them.

[@davidbuehler5627]

Hey Dad!!!!

[@jaymemendonca6075]

Here in my region of Brazil there is almost no use of this simple, incredible technique. Here in my region there are large areas of Eucaliptus Grandis plantations. You inspired me to make a very cozy and natural home. You are incredible!!! Thank you very much!!

[@mikemcgown6362]

You're doing a great job with the build, Kyle! Dodging chickens and keeping Skeeter's approval keeps your work honest. It's a simple process, and a very physical job, but you're doing it! Being a simple design with a lot of repetition gives you time to think ahead. I could really enjoy that kind of stuff! I spend a lot of time in my head. Thinking, thinking, thinking. Yes I'm an introvert. You're inspiring me to build my own log cabin from trees on our property. Thanks, Kyle! I really like your videos and the information and experience you share!

[@beentheredonethat4257]

Great build. Dependent on the lay of the land and it’s handling of water, I’ve always preferred a structure at least 4’-6’ in ground. (Even though it’s a bit more complicated having to bank earth up to the wall on the outside, char all logs that touch earth, fill & insulate gaps between walls & earth, etc.). But, it’s far more stable, much easier to roof & maintain the roof from the lower outside height, is much more resistant to nature’s elements, and much easier to maintain a comfortable living temperature. With little planning and effort, a normal ground level end allows for even better air flow, storage, or a lofted sleeping area. I love seeing the chickens. Having them, and guinea fowl, has the immediate benefit of them eating every parasite and small insect critters they can find. And if you plan to plant a garden for food, they will keep the insects off of those plants as well. Long term a great, near self-sustaining, protein source. (Eggs & meat). Feathers make a fantastic soft stuffing for bedding that is also insulating. They are also a super alarm system. In rural America, no matter how poor families are, you will almost always see them with chickens and/or guineas. For most of the year, when I was young, we didn’t have access to meat. During fall & winter, we killed hogs & hunted. When what was cured ran out or low, chicken was our “once a week” meat. Usually on Sunday. I don’t know if anything has ever tasted as good as that salty, crunchy, greasy fried chicken, with biscuits, gravy, boiled potatoes, and usually, home-canned green beans. I’m just rambling now, lol. All that to say “good job”. Sorry I waffled on so long.

[@JanineMJoi]

love this. Thank you for the tips.

[@bigchiponmyshoulder7573]

Fascinating anecdote. Love hearing this sort of stuff. Take care.

[@AmandaWeik-k6b]

I enjoyed reading it ❤

[@wendykraf8348]

The chickens are making me think of my cats. They just have to be with you involved with whatever your doing lol.

[@razytazz5515]

Great video! You mentioned the large gaps in old pioneer cabins. I'm not sure about this, as I am not an expert, but I think they were done on purpose to save time and wood when building a cabin. The larger gaps meant for fewer logs needing to be cut and peeled etc. If you think about how many logs you would use in a cabin with 6" gaps that could be like 10 fewer logs required for example. When you had to use hand tools and cut trees in the spring and dry the logs in the spring/summer and have the cabin built by winter, saving build time was essential to survival. Typically these people were nomadic to the point of building their cabins, so they could not wait years for the logs to dry completely. Also, the large gaps may have been to allow for shrinking and movement of the logs as the wood dried after building, essentially it would be easier to keep some clay and moss around to repair holes in the gaps than to deconstruct the cabin and hew the logs straight. Large gaps were also required around windows to prevent the frames from being deformed by the sagging logs caused by gravity, so this could also be another purpose of the large gaps, to lessen the weight and potential for logs to deform window frames. If you look at some old cabins you will notice the bottoms of the windows may rest on a log but the tops are supported by the chinking, though some I have seen that had windows replaced and were not original to the era did not have this. Obviously, modern cabins are built with very dry logs so they can have very little gaps around windows and doors, but not so wise if using green logs that haven't dried very long.

[@lawncuttingplusdelta]

Good insight ! :)

[@razytazz5515]

Also, Aspen logs are really good for growing oyster mushrooms. I was thinking the butt and pass method could be used to make some oyster mushroom crop plots. Make small square crop plots out of the aspen and drill holes in the logs and get some mushroom plug spawn, you could grow oysters on the outside and fill the inside of the plot with leaves and brush for compost. It's a good way to make some rich soil and clean up brush and debris.

[@BenBernal-g3k]

Thank you for your input you know your stuff

[@therealDonMac]

Coming along awesome. I love seeing the property coming together. Y'all are building an amazing homestead.

[@kevinemery1177]

Running that saw in the joint like that is a smart move

[@richardhodge3763]

Interesting to know. As a matter of fact essentially its invaluable to know. In northern Ontario in a momment we could be running from wild fires, a tent is ok in a short pinch, yet this is the mid-term solution while life is coming back to what you once knew if one dosent have a million bucks to stay sane in the mean time. Thanks for the insights.

[@peterohmarmendoza6381]

We love you, Kyle. Thanks for this video.

[@KYLESCABIN]

Thanks Peter!

[@thegarbagegladiators4735]

Nothing like hanging out with your chickens in the early morning building a cabin!

[@chasjacks9378]

I think back in the days of our forefathers this had to be the choice method of cabin building especially if time is a factor. You had from spring to fall. Even using a hand drill and dowels if spikes weren’t available. I hope he tracks his labor hours from cutting timber to moving in. Keep up the great videos.

[@KYLESCABIN]

I’ve kept track of the days. I think I can have it dried in by day 10. We will see.

[@TheQuietTyper]

I'm currently saving up to build my own log cabin. I've been looking at all the different ways to build them. I'm stuck between the Butt and Pass method and the saddle notch. I'd put them side by side when it comes to appearance in general. I like the tighter fit that the saddle notch provides, but I'm also inexperienced when it comes to building, so the simplicity of the butt and pass method is also attractive.

[@KYLESCABIN]

You do get a much tighter fit using saddle notches. Butt and pass is much easier and wayyyyy faster. Anything can be chinked though. If you look at the cabins the pioneers built they have massive gaps between logs, they just chinked them with a mud or mortar mixture. I think it’s all about personal preference. A saddle notch cabin with tight fitting logs is beautiful though.

[@bustabitwatcher5886]

@@KYLESCABIN on average how long does it take to create a cabin using this method and in this video how many days did this take?

[@KYLESCABIN]

@@bustabitwatcher5886 if you worked at it all day you could do it in a week. Took me a little longer cause I had to take time to film and move the tripod around, focus the camera, etc.. but I think I did it in about 10-12 days while filming. Peeling the logs takes the longest by far. Once you start building it goes very fast.

[@bustabitwatcher5886]

@@KYLESCABINIs it possible to build this without peeling the logs, if not why?

[@randomperson58925]

@@bustabitwatcher5886 I'm no expert by any means, but some says peeling logs makes the logs last longer and helps prevent fungi and bugs destroying the logs as quickly.

[@davidhuber7166]

Ahhh building a good log cabin… good tools and a good chain saw! Thanks!

[@LordgivemetheStrength]

Wow!! Great work!!! Your dad must be proud😀

[@LegendaryGames420]

I know exactly what im going to do with my land now :)

[@conniewright8080]

you are a hard worker-we all remember our younger days

[@McRocket]

LOVE the chickens. They must really trust you as they seem so relaxed. This technique is great. Even I could do it!!! Thanks for this. Really enjoyed it. ☮

[@We_are_the_light]

Brother this is Gold. I cant wait to try this. You're a saviour. Thank you

[@danielleterry2331]

Lol Kyle all your hens are very impressed with your building as am I thank you for showing us how to build a cabin so very cool

[@twoweary]

Really nice video. One thing though, “orientated” (2:52)is NOT a word. The logs are oriented to each other. If someone is lost in the woods, they are disoriented, not “disorientated” .The owl said Bambi was twiterpated, but that’s not a word either. Yes I know, maybe I need to chill. 😁

[@ChristianMccarthy-r7w]

Perfect made log

[@jacquelynportee3875]

I have enjoyed this video. Watching the but and pass log cabin building is more better than reading about it. I am more of a visual learner.

[@pqtpat7734]

Those chickens are getting cocky. Right in the business. Great build and vid

[@KYLESCABIN]

Haha they are pretty good entertainment throughout the day

[@markholmes1346]

Great job, love watching you build things from what’s available on your land!

[@KiwiBushcraftAndSurvival]

Finally someone that explains stuff in detail. And not filming in silence, which is next to almost no help. Great stuff man. I learnt more in 10 minutes, compared to hours of other videos!

[@russellwatters5891]

Awesome build! You're right, it is probably the simplest method to build with, no rocket scientist needed... Just a strong back and arms! Great stuff 👏

[@KYLESCABIN]

Thanks!

[@MrBugman2525]

Great presentation and craftmanship,you kinda resemble jack Lambert former NFL player of the Pittsburgh Steelers

[@lucindapick2986]

As you said, so many ways to build a cabin. I've always seen butt and pass done with one end of the log butting and the other end passing, not two but ends and then two pass ends as you've done it...that may be a sturdier way as it provides something to overlap at each intersection. Just a thought.

[@d8ve]

You are correct, hence the term butting one and and the other passing over the top.

[@zram4x4]

I've used those spikes before on a header beam in a house. Nice hammering job!

[@adventuringthenormal]

Thank you for sharing, your chickens seem to be some happy girls

[@jeremypaluck4246]

@1:55 I asked the local hardware store for nine in nails and they laughed haha

[@RealKirbysDreamland]

😂

[@misterpricer]

Anyone using a framing hammer to pound in those spikes, well my hats off for you already and great job on the cabin.

[@AceVey]

Awesome videos. My only recommendation, maybe use a maul for the spikes? More forgiving and more striking power for your buck. Cheers!

[@kenwinzeler3796]

Another down to earth video, thanks for sharing your build. It’s good to hear that your goal is $500.00 total cost. Just shows you that with some hard work and determination it’s possible. Good job! -Ken

[@SybleKabible]

Did you see him positioning that log up against the tree and then changing over to another cut, he definitely squished that chicken, just kidding I love this idea and thank you so much for the video!

[@Bumper1869]

Great to watch your building style. Have to laugh when you say the chickens are good company...then pans to the dog like..."wtf...no shout out for me woof woof!"

[@jbug9936]

Man, the forest looks gorgeous this time of year.

[@funtobuild9968]

I would guess that most folks watching have no idea how hard and challenging this work is. He makes it looks easy!

[@billyandrew]

Good to see someone unafraid of hard work. Well done and thanks for uploading!

[@THardy.]

This was a great video, Kyle. Thank you for explaining as you built. Looks like Skeeter was a BIG help!

[@fattail01]

Haven't been to a Butt and Pass since that time in Vegas. PS: you didn't even use a sledge on them spikes, nice.

[@kellicollins6285]

I love your builds. So talented and driven.

[@KYLESCABIN]

Thanks Kelli!

[@kellicollins6285]

Your very welcome. I live in South Carolina but one day I would like to live in Oregon or Montana up near the mountains around some beautiful water but in the woods. I am always looking forward to see what you’re doing next! Have a blessed week.

[@butopiatoo]

Great stuff. Worry about no eye protection. Be safe. You’ve only got 2 eyes.

[@detour7790]

Great job. It is nice to see a young man willing to work hard for what he wants. keep up the good work.

[@thecrittergitter7576]

Where did you get your draw knife? Is it homemade? If so what material?

[@juliesimpson3729]

What great craftsmanship you have Kyle! You amaze me with your skills and talents!

[@jacksg1809]

Great idea Kyle with the cabin. Love that Ur chickens are free range too very important in my eyes 🥰 can't wait to see this build as always .

[@reneeplann9084]

Thank you for explaining and show steps! Gonna check out your other videos! Love seeing the chickens and the dog❤

[@randycornell9796]

Pretty cool!! Stay busy!! Love the chickens and skeeter supervisor's!! Stay safe my friend..🤓👍🤓👍 Randy.

[@shapeshifter7753]

That’s all I’ve got here is those aspens. They make construction tough. No doubt. I like the argyle nails myself. With the twist in em. No need for galvanized in my opinion. They won’t be exposed to the elements and it’ll save ya $$$. My fav for driving em in is a 3 to 4 pound short handled sledge hammer. Keep on, your making your dreams come true👍

[@debramage739]

Pioneer woman would of loved that build. Thanks Kyle and Skeeter in charge

[@ryan_fsk]

Creative , the guy I watched chiped the log with a curved blade saw , around a 180 degre cut so he could push another log in but that logs circle has to be almost exact for th other log to fit

[@PoeticCoastCollectibles]

This is so cool, I am thinking I'll save up my money to get a piece of land that I can build something like this on. I know this video is a few years old but thank you for making it.

[@classic287]

Nice 👍 job. I like that. The chickens a really into it too. They don't seem to be afraid of anything...

[@zinknot]

Love how the chickens are looking out for you.

[@Mark-pd9qk]

What a great work ethic this young man has! The same kind that built this country.

[@floritapfister8701]

Love love the dog. He reminds me of my Sam. Such a good dog.

[@jackwells1452]

My wife and I have some rhode Island reds they are the friendlyist chickens we've ever had, but great job on this build

[@kenshores9900]

Waiting with anticipation for the next episode. Skeeter is a good dog. And your pet chickens were neat also.

[@josephbarnett2566]

I don't see how saddle notching uses less chinking?

[@ronnietalarchyk-kh3pq]

Thank You for what your doing! Skeeter is way cooool toooo!

[@robertdknight]

Very cool. I really like this technique. I'm looking forward to the rest of the videos in the series. Great job!

[@randyames992]

Don't worry about using spikes in the logs..the log diameter is big enough so you'll never split one. Excellent job running the chainsaw between the logs..much better fit. We built one years ago and used much the same method and aspen as well..

[@daveday4251]

My wife and did a butt and pass cabin out of 4 bundles of landscape timbers, we used 6” galvanized deck screws with a bead of subfloor adhesive between timbers. Fun and beautiful results

[@theemeraldfox7779]

Any video or pictures of it?

[@takingu2skoo462]

❤love the chickens and dog chillin with you all day

[@jimbrown4180]

Looks good great start . Keep pluging away before snow starts falling !!!

[@corwind3888]

I took a class from Skip Ellsworth some 45 years ago and learned the butt and pass method. It was somewhat different [and better] than you present here. With his method, you butt the big end to the big end at one corner (and the corner kitty corner to it) and small end to small end at the adjacent corners -- the next coarse will have the corner with the big ends directly over the corner with the small ends. With this way you do not cut any logs to fit between, but rather all logs can run wild on one end and be cut off after the cabin is completed. The method you have shown here may be okay if your logs don't taper much, but when they do, the logs cut in between will have large gaps.

[@lennyt-man4229]

I like this method your doing and much easier than notching the logs. First video I've watched anyone doing it this way. Like the old saying work smarter not harder.

[@El_Chompo]

Thank you, I can't wait to try this out. Now I don't have to reinvent the wheel, thanks again.

[@chrischristofis8501]

Thanks for the video, so want to build my own log cabin one day

[@KYLESCABIN]

Thanks for watching. You can do it. 99% of the battle is just starting.