$200 Bullet-Proof Alaskan Chainsaw Mill Setup. Build Your Own! #80

I have milled HUNDREDS of logs with this setup that took me only a day to put together. It is truly indestructible and will last a lifetime.
Follow the measurements and add a chainsaw and you will have lumber for many years to come.
My video comparing several different milling chainsaw side-by-side:
• Comparison of Chainsaw...
Link to my earlier How-To-Chainsaw-Mill video:
• Chainsaw Milling- How ...
Where I found this design originally:
• Logs to Lumber: Alaska...
Because I’ve gotten so many questions about the gear that I use on the channel, here are some of the most important pieces I use every day:
(I do receive a small commission from sales associated with the following links. Any income from these sales goes directly to supporting me in making new videos for this channel!)
**I will not share links to products that I don't use regularly or that I wouldn't buy again.**
Granberg Chainsaw Mill amzn.to/3cdRXvn
Inexpensive Chainsaw Grinder/Sharpener amzn.to/38LHfNP
(If it is out of stock, the following looks similar though I can't vouch for it:) amzn.to/3KMGemW
My Favorite Piece of Gear- Chainsaw Helmet amzn.to/3uuW5xB
How I Keep the Mosquitoes Away! amzn.to/3frenvh
Big, Black Log-Peeling Knife - Becker BK9 amzn.to/3oZIeOH
The Trailer I Use Behind My 4 Wheeler- Yutrax amzn.to/3fvO8DK
Bug Net Rooms I Use amzn.to/3uwOK0l
Portable Heaters in My Tent and the Deer Castle amzn.to/3frQ7Jh
Thank you all so much for supporting this crazy endeavor! Without you folks donating to Surviving Ringworm, I wouldn't be able to even consider staying out here in the wilderness a THIRD year making videos. You seriously blow my mind!
/ survivingringworm
(As a thank you for donating $5 or more a month through Patreon, I will carve your name into the picnic table and show it in an upcoming episode.)
If you don't want to donate monthly but still want to support the channel: paypal.me/survivingringworm

[@wanderingsailor5503]

The issue you're describing with the chains is that you weren't using a ripping chain at the start. Standard chains are cut at 25-30 degree angles which is too aggressive for milling. A ripping chain is cut at 10-15 degrees. A skip tooth ripping chain is the best way to go as it's not aggressive and the skip teeth allow enough space for chips to be properly discharged, allowing your saw to run at a higher constant rpm.

[@wxfield]

I was just going to add the same comment. Lots of people don't understand the difference between cross-cut and rip-cut.

[@flat6fever680]

@@wxfield Thank you both. I've never heard of the difference!

[@cmanycrows8400]

On my 038, I run double skip ripping chain.

[@uncleharley1]

Where do you get your skip tooth rip chains

[@wanderingsailor5503]

If you look up the parts distributor for Oregon Forestry in your area then you can contact the distributor directly. In Canada it's CPT and Theo Turgeon. @@uncleharley1

[@marlobreding7402]

I'm 70 years old and every time I thought I had a IDEA someone else already had been there and done that.

[@c50ge]

That doesn’t mean you didn’t invent it, it just means you can’t take credit for it. Ecclesiastes 1:9 NIV What has been will be again, What has been done will be done again; there’s nothing new under the sun.

[@dean-zb9nt]

why is that. Me to.??

[@leebernardo1000]

For my mill, so I didn't lose too much of the log, I made a "Ladder Frame" from Uni-Strut (From Menards) and then made Pointed Studs from 1/4"=20 Bolts - sharpened to a point. I lay the ladder frame on the log, with the sharpened bolts mounted on the ladder rungs, pointing down. I just tap them down with and axe or hammer and start milling. I lose around an inch of log on my first slab. Works pretty good and easy/fast to setup. I could draw this up if you, or others, have any interest/questions.

[@gregkahle9046]

Me too

[@RobertJLessard]

I thought of that style but is it fast to install and have it parallel to the center point of the log. I'm using the same dual rail system as Mr ringworm and it's very adaptable to non perfectly straight logs.

[@603Christain]

Pics?

[@shebamina3598]

I'm also interested. I had a similar idea but this far only got as far as the ladder unistrut frame, which rests on some ply brackets. My clever plan to cut the unistrut down to make it easier to move the top cut bracket around backfired, since now it keeps trying to sag in the middle

[@murphdoesit]

That sounds pretty cool

[@ronroberts110]

Once I got a job with a company that gave us free boots each year, and a co-worker suggested extra wide boots, even if they needed to be ordered instead of just bought at the store. Its a big help, comfortable right away. Also, we are required to have safety toe. One job I worked outdoors in the snow, and no matter how warm my legs and feet were, my toes were so cold they were in pain. I got a "composite" toe instead of steel, and they are awesome. Lighter than steel, and toes don't get cold anymore.

[@pamelabrewer4428]

Sooo very helpful, thank you! I'm a 62 yr old female felling all my trees,and am ready to start milling and have watched hours of jumbled and incomplete. Keep doing what your doing !! Pamela Brewer Choctaw AR

[@GetRealBaby]

I have no intention to mill trees, but your video was worth watching from start to finish. You're a natural teacher with a voice and manner that's easy to watch and listen to. Thanks!

[@googlemail6996]

It’s like learning saw milling from Jack Johnson. Halaka ukulele, I’m sawing on the daily Milling all these pine trees, making all these nice things

[@johnelder4273]

I'm not sure why this video came up on my feed but it was absolutely facinating. I live on 10 acres in SC and I had not thought of using a chainsaw mill before. Now, many projects are very doable. Thanks!

[@dcvariousvids8082]

One of the better milling setup presentation I’ve seen and not over complicated. Thank you.

[@natemorlock2379]

I just bought 10 acres (and the small Granberg log mill) in Washington state. I have had SO much fun out there. Working on a picnic table now. Finished my alder sawhorses about 5 days ago. I love your videos man. I think they helped me finally pull the trigger. Thank you, brother

[@Yettiattack]

Where in Washington? 5 months 5 acres i imagine you spent alot. Heck i have a woodmizer i might sell it to you ;)

[@Ludifant]

I just bought a chainsaw, but Ringworm is definitely an inspiration. Right now, it's for firewood, but this is very interesting too.

[@natemorlock2379]

@@Yettiattack Western Washington, South Puget Sound. How much for the Woodmizer? : )

[@Yettiattack]

@@natemorlock2379 11k 30 blades new guide rollers/belts to addition the ones that are on. An a saw carriage cover.

[@carlosmontoya2485]

Milling yourself saves you a ton of $$$. Dude your lucky most of us can't do that or have the resources. Thank you for the content.

[@Joestacemazjojo]

I’ll definitely have to come back to this in spring. I despise working in the cold like you. Have yet to add a winch and am using the biggest cheapest Chinese chainsaw I could afford. Definitely takes alot of time but appreciate your tips here. So thanks. This is what we are here for

[@f1rstclass366]

Impressive simplicity of less is way more!

[@robertpaulis439]

If you follow your cuts with wedges every two to three feet, opposite sides behind the saw, your cuts will be pinch free and smoother. Chain is not the problem as long as it is a rip chain. A slight angle in the cut, like slicing cheese, works good too.

[@Colorcrayons]

My first video on your channel. I have a few words I would like to share with you that I imagine are not very typical, since log milling is not my usual haunt on YT. 1: I very much appreciate what I judge to be your sincere and honest wisdom you are sharing regarding your experience. Even the self deprecating remarks. Maybe even especially the self deprecating remarks. All too often people feel compelled to share their wisdom, as if it the acme of accumulated wisdom for their topic. While obviously falling far short of the target they were aiming at. Watching someone engage in such thorough and well said candor about their experience was enough to make me continue watching a video I typically have little interest in engaging with. 2: I also appreciate your willingness to just plant your ass in an area, and make the most out of what you have, the best way you can, with the tools and knowledge you have available to you. There is much to be said about not only an honest days work, but also for that very same work slowly pulling you towards enjoying the wine of satisfaction that the vineyard you are tending to has produced. It is a vanishing ethic. One which I very much miss being surrounded by. Good luck in your labors, man. I look forward to vicariously sharing in your successes and failures, as I plan on subscribing to your channel on those above merits alone. Thanks.

[@szolanek]

1st time here. I really enjoyed it. Finally, you suffered over a year before got it right, now you enjoy it. It reminds me of my baking habit. I started making our bread and some pastry years ago. Now I am able to bring good stuff out by any circumstances. If someone asked me how to do it right, I would say it is easy. You have to screw it up few hundred times, and you got it.😊

[@MichaelHartleyBambooStudio]

appreciate your natural humility...

[@DanlowMusic]

Algorithm brought me here. This is a satisfying thing to watch. With all the fir trees we have, this would be awesome to have.

[@ryestephens]

knocked out my first three boards today using this setup, thanks for the inspo

[@nerfherder4284]

Thanks YT, for suggesting a video about a guy thanking you for suggesting a video...but seriously thanks for the video, I have logs and this looks perfect.

[@garymucher4082]

I really like your chainsaw milling setup. It does the job, you enjoy doing it, what would be a problem. Thanks for going over all of it. Lots of questions answered. Thumbs Up!

[@BingoMatic]

I stumbled on this channel while searching on building atv bridges. So I first watched episode #39. I normally make my atv bridges out of regular lumber so this methodology got me interested enough to look into your channel. I must say after one week of binge watching all of your content, I finally got through all of your episodes. I look forward to watching your new content as you continue to produce it.

[@shortsweettoo]

With a new pup coming soon, you will want to insulate the floor for them. Erik Grankvist used nothing but his wood shavings and sawdust for his floor. Decent R value and its F - R Double EE. You are making tons of sawdust. Your pup will thank you if you use it to keep their tush warm 🐶

[@ruckuswethepeep4384]

Well worth it! What an amazing set up, this is the first time I have watched your channel. Very impressive! Loved all the details you covered. Great job

[@kekq3525]

"I never had an original thought in my life" 🤣 Subscribed right there and I dont even own a chainsaw.

[@dougs6460]

Great tutorial on the hows and whys of your mill setup, Thanx for sharing. You answered questions I didn't even have!!! Stay safe.

[@wilburhornshnoggle2619]

I never had an original thought in my life either. Ambition solves all kinds of problems...

[@foreverturningpeterkipfer5468]

One more f , if not the best video you've done. Immensely enjoyable and you've answered a lot of the questions I've had about chainsaw milling.

[@iblackbeard]

Excellent rundown of your setup. You did a good job of explaining this in full layman's terms. I'm gonna try. Thanks again!

[@susangay4866]

Right tools for the right job. Great class!

[@CoreyBooth33]

So much good info in this vid. I've run into all of these issues milling & this vid can really assist anyone looking to do so.

[@SmokeyAlex]

Thank you! Gray coverage!

[@dueldr]

Great information. I have my Chainsaw mill equipment coming and I was just planning to use an extension ladder as my guide for the first cut, however After seeing this I will replicate your setup instead. Thank you!

[@davidantczak8590]

Great video. Answered lots of questions I had about the process. Even created snow diagrams to help explain concepts.

[@Daniel08353]

I like this guy’s dry humor. 😆👌🏼

[@dirckcopeland9154]

Thanks for taking the time to document your process, very much appreciated.

[@bryanpoole4749]

I used to think you were nuts but now I realize your true genius

[@Dutch58]

Thanks for the effort and tons of information, Ryan. My first search to alaskan chainsaw mill and you appeared. Your videos are so easy going and nicely unexcited😀Thanks from Southern-Germany to the Michigan forests

[@Repomam2000]

I just found your channel. First video I've watched. I'm glad you demonstrated the use of your winch come-along. Thank you for sharing!

[@angelalachappelle9680]

I don’t know how I ever came across this video, but I’m sure glad I did. What a great video. So glad you decided to just ramble on instead of just giving the specs of making this mill. There’s a lot of knowledge packed into it! I’m definitely a follower now! 😊

[@Benmelech]

First time viewer, therefore I’M GLAD you demonstrated using the winch👏👏👍. Also, my first time reviewing a chainsaw mill, and was extremely impressed with all the information, filming, editing, etc. you put into it. I am an instant fan and have to check your other videos.👍👍👍

[@montelott8570]

Diy milling makes more sense than now than ever, cedar has got to be a very user friendly wood. Good setup.

[@bobstovall9570]

Great Video and great presentation. No frills, just the facts. Thank you. Looking forward to more quality content like this.

[@skeeviesteve1071]

...This is the 1st video of yours that ive come across, and it couldnt have been a more perfect subject! I needed to be introduced to this simple way of milling my own lumber, this is amazing. Many project ideas have been hindered due to the high cost of materials, and now I can mill them myself, thank you so so much for sharing your knowledge.

[@spaceantelope1]

It’s guys like you!!🙏💪 Keen observation, never having had an original thought. It’s all good. No one has had one, because they originate from somewhere other than ourselves. Hope you got your setup going. Michigan is a beautiful place with wonderful people. Cheers!!

[@rolandkovacs6716]

Excellent video. I've been milling for about 11 years, always used an extension ladder for the initial cut. Been looking at this setup with the plates for a while now. I think you just sold me on that idea. Thanks buddy. You covered a lot of good points on milling in this video. Things I also found out through trial and error. It sure is fun though. MS 460, 32" bar, Alaskan Mark III.

[@chuckwagon7171]

Running a stihl ms661c-m on a 36" Granburg mill and bar....square ground full skip chain and it blows through oak. Always enjoy the videos worm...we live similar lives

[@Vermilicious]

That's some nice lumber right there, and all cut with a chainsaw. Bravo.

[@jonathanballard2687]

So I have been dragging my feet on building my saw mill happened across your video and I have to say the information was great definitely answered the question that kept me from building my mill. Started building it after seeing it and going tomorrow to get final supplies. No more spending money on wood. The selection at hardwood stores are less than to be desired anyway. Finally going to be able to finish projects I was waiting on because the bank account was low. Thanks I will check out more of your videos keep up the good work. 👍

[@josephbadulak9146]

The quality of your video has been enhanced by candor, experienced knowledge, and artistic patience, covering the full spectrum of possibilities; such as proper chain maintenance. Thank you!❤

[@johncopp7018]

Great video! Built this same setup a few years ago and have milled lots of walnut. Used some surplus 1-7/8" strut for the bars and tilted my log table to make it a little easer cutting. PS. My old 1980 Homelite XL12 just keeps going.

[@mjkane217]

Great video. I’ve done a little bit of milling on a homemade chainsaw mill… what helped me a lot was gravity. One side of the log is always 6-12” lower than the other. Thanks for the tips.

[@stevedockery3534]

I'm really impressed with your thought process and how you've over come your mistakes. They seem to not bother you, just motivates you into doing it another, and probably a better way. Kudos to you for taking on something that many many people would not even consider. I also agree with you about the high cost of lumber, it's ridiculous. Enjoy your videos very much my friend. Steve

[@davidsonger3476]

i love your shows. you crack me up and i learn stuff from every show. ive been living in the Au Sable State Forest for 26 years in a trailer but now i have so many ash trees on the ground it would be a crime not to start making lumber. thanx fer the help.

[@steventrostle1825]

Love watching a sharp chain cut through any log.

[@chris-wr4jl]

Used to mill logs for my gold mine back in 2006-2010 I miss those days. Doug firs where my main trees and loved every minute of it.

[@gtbkts]

I remodel cabins and this setup would be perfect. Thanks for the info and expertise

[@waynegroves6922]

Some years ago, my brother and I milled a huge pile of cedar logs, that averaged about ten inches, with a borrowed 52" commercially-made bandsaw mill. Neither one of us had ever done this before, but we figured it out pretty fast. I ended up having to machine new roller guide blocks for it, as the original ones were cracked - and picked up quite a bit of knowledge on the setup and use of a bandsaw mill; however, this looks way easier - especially since you can move the chainsaw mill to the logs.

[@elifreeman7870]

Those plates you made. You need to market that idea. Those are amazingly useful. The best milling endplates I've seen, for sure

[@donaldhofman5257]

That was a awesome informative milling video!!! You answered most of my questions! I seen a few others but yours is the best out there!!

[@seancyr4205]

This is the first video of yours I've seen and it was great! I'm just purchasing my first chainsaw mill and the information and tips you provided were awesome. Thanks for making these videos, cheers and be safe bro!

[@alirezashirazifard8990]

Thanks 🙏 you’re a great guy helping others .

[@ernestoale7256]

Bad ass! I owned two Lucas mills for about 20 years. Sold them to a neighbor. Just felled a 40” DBH sugar pine and I May end up blowing the dust off of and using the Alaska mill for the first time in many years. Good inspiration from you.

[@BadGrandpa101]

Thank you for going in depth on this. I've had my mill for a while now and haven't used it. I would have made a few mistakes right away had I not watched this, thank you.

[@cowcatcher9186]

I copied your rail and bracket setup a while back. Worked great. I did make a wider set of plates to use when milling some 30” diameter oak. 36” Granberg mill and a Holzfforma 660 pro saw with 36” bar. I think the pate and rail setup can’t be beat for heavy duty and speed of setup.

[@jimmyb1451]

"I've never had an original thought in my entire life." I came to that realisation in my late teens, and it was reaffirmed in my twenties when someone told me "You're lucky if in your entire life, you have one single original thought.", which made me feel a little bit better about it, but not a whole lot.

[@leannkennedy6568]

It's best not to let others identify who you are. That's your job. Btw, those people were rude and had zero good intentions.

[@jimmyb1451]

@@leannkennedy6568 No they weren't. And they were correct.

[@leannkennedy6568]

@@jimmyb1451 ok, sorry to interfere. Have a great day!!

[@Screw_This]

Excellent video. I'll probably never use a chainsaw mill but I now feel I can confidently baffle them with my bullshit down at the local tavern.

[@tomnugent2148]

Thumbs up brother, So many great tips and content. Great to learn from your trial and error and pass on the knowledge so others can avoid problems. Solid setup, clear speaking and good audio,, not rambling, tons of great info packed into the video. Too many KZbin videos try to stretch out something and go on an on. You ROCK bro, keep up the great work and it's always great to see people who enjoy the great outdoors.✅✅✅

[@maintenancewithmike]

Just stumbled onto this channel. Great content for outdoors people.. Thanks!

[@Seafariireland]

Thank you for a really useful and inspiring lesson in practical wood milling. I think the bar system is really versatile and practical. It is really enjoyable being out “wood landing”, is’int it! Greetings from the Emerald Isle.

[@maplehouseknives]

This is the first video I've seen from you. Extremely informative, straight to the point w/ no BS. I really appreciate the time you spent on this video, I learned some invaluable info. Subbed, greetings from Germany 🇩🇪 👍 🍻

[@___michael___7165]

Same as the other two. Want a bandsaw mill, but may try this first. I have oak. Saw another video where two guys used what looked like an aluminum ladder for their bars. Were doing long lengths, wide cuts, 48 inch chain bar. They didn't give any how to's. Yours....very informative. Thanks. Subscribed.

[@odessa3186]

Great video. Great channel. Gotta say, you are a natural in front of the camera and a stellar editor.

[@googleuser1992]

excellent sound quality on your video. And Thank you for not playing music in the background. Great informational video.

[@WholeFoodPlantPeople]

I'm a complete noob, about to embark on using trees to build furniture and ultimately a log structure. Feeling overwhelmed yet inspired after watching your video. NEW SUBSCRIBER 🎉

[@LooonTooons]

What an enjoyable and extremely helpful adventure you guided me on. Thank you so much. This is the one video that has now convinced me that I can do this, and surely enjoy the journey much like you have. You covered the details and concerns I had perfectly. Cheers... 8^)

[@1014TOMCAT]

Great video, you do an excellent job explaining your process. Thanks.

[@NovaDexter]

I have the same saw and I'm going to attempt to make some lumber myself. With your videos I ain't scared :) Thank you for all the invaluable information

[@allanscottperry2148]

Excellent content and subject material. I subscribed today. Looking forward to future projects this season.

[@tomwood9857]

Great job of explaining the details that a no experience guy like me would need to know. Wisdom born of pain. We'll done. Good luck. Have a great life out there!

[@johnb-lz9mg]

Like your chainsaw mill. I can see how satisfying it would be running it all day. Plus the beautiful boards are perfect for all sorts of projects. Keep your chain sharp and some wedges handy and just cut cut cut baby. Thanks for a great video. Be safe out there. It only takes i second of day dreaming and bang your cut. Be safe and pay attention to your work and surroundings.

[@fpv_everyday]

Very nice setup you have there I have never seen one so nicely built and also easy to use

[@mal798]

Looks like a really enjoyable process.

[@roy.h.barrett]

I emulated your set up with some minor variations and can tell you it's kickass! I bought full 20' sticks of square stock and cut it at 8-12... ive fabricated an internal bar to mate them for long slabbing... helps reduce flex too! Thabk you!

[@scottc3165]

Very good. I live a similar life in Northern California mountains. Can't imagine anything better.

[@greenstair]

Thank you so much for this information; I just came across your channel and it's gold dust. Take care and thanks

[@briandefrancisco2571]

Great tips on how to make a great set up even better! As for your out door shower 55 gallon metal drum paint black for sun shine hot water. rain spout off one off your buildings and scoop snow with tractor bucket to keep filled with water. build a small fire box under the tank for the cold and sunless days. good way to help clean up your scrap lumber.

[@andrewrouth249]

Awesome detail. I might actually do this now

[@dadmezz4024]

Wonderful information. Thank you sir. Gives me ideas for doing small yard and garden projects.

[@robertwoodard2277]

I have a still 661 mag with a 36" mill and I'm making all my timber frame lumber out of pine. Knotty pine 2x6 t&g for interior panel and roof deck. I'm milling crazy maple crotch sections for flooring and counter tops. It will take 2 years to get all the lumber but it will save me 100k$

[@RobertJLessard]

I have the same 261 as Ryan but need something bigger. I'm thinking 500i just for the power to weight.

[@nyahkiley4025]

@@RobertJLessard The Stihl dealer, recommended the 661 as it has more torque vs the 500i. Thats what i went with the 661, i know there about the same price but i took the dealers advise.

[@pyug17]

I've just found your channel & wow, thanks. This is a great instructional video, many thanks.

[@17TMAGA]

Great job explaining. I feel like an expert now

[@coradavenport9142]

Instant fan. Great video. Very cool what your doing.

[@ericaman5393]

Another excellent video!! I really appreciate how in depth you went and all your advice from experience! I'm hoping to finally get started milling this spring, and your insight is very valuable.

[@peterparsons7141]

This video worked for me because it covered most general questions I had. I can figure out the details, or have my own way of doing things based on what I have at hand etc. I prefer quick overview, with any big gotchyas pointed out. I’ve been eyeing one of these setups for a while, and had always thought I would fabricate it, but have had good success with the stihl saw, so why not use the mill. Thanks for the vid, it gave me enough info., to make a board.

[@donsrestorations]

This is my first time to your channel. Great content and information. My son and I cut a lot of wood for heating and we have been wanting to do some milling as well. Thanks for sharing!!

[@flgardener1155]

Thank you. This is one of the best best KZbin videos I've ever watched. This was like a Master Level Course on chainsaw milling. I really feel like I learned a lot and will avoid a lot of trial and error once I purchase a mill. Now I will go back and watch your other videos. Keep up the good work.

[@flat6fever680]

Same...

[@joevendramin9509]

That was informative. Half hour well spent.

[@williamterry3177]

New to your channel. Great help. Thanks for posting the videos. I have a lot of your stuff to catch up with. Happy New Year.

[@jimplantinga6288]

Thanks for sharing, I appreciate your videos. These helpful hints save a lot of time for us beginners.

[@ryanbuckley4035]

Great video, thanks for the tips. Going to start my milling journey with your teachings and wonder if ill ever leave the woods also lol