ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill Review

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Imagine a world where you can cut lumber wherever and whenever you need to. This has been made possible with the invention of the Granberg Chainsaw Mill, specifically the Alaskan model. This portable and versatile tool has not just caused ripples, but rather made tidal waves in the lumber industry. It has brought the ability to mill lumber into the hands of everyday craftsmen, effectively decentralizing and democratizing the industry.

The Granberg Chainsaw Mill, and in particular the Alaskan model, has been a significant tool in the arsenal of many craftsmen, hobbyists, and professionals alike. It’s a tool that truly embodies the essence of the do-it-yourself culture that exists in various fields of craftsmanship, particularly woodworking.

This Alaskan model is a powerhouse that fits right onto your chainsaw, transforming it into a fully functioning milling machine that can be taken to the heart of the forest to cut logs into usable lumber. Suddenly, the world is your sawmill. No longer do you need to lug heavy logs back to your workshop or deal with the cost and inconvenience of traditional sawmills. With the Granberg Alaskan Chainsaw Mill, you can take the mill to the logs and not the other way around.

History of Granberg Chainsaw Mill

Founded by Elof Granberg in the 1960s, Granberg International is a family-owned company based in California. Their pioneering product, the Alaskan chainsaw mill, has been a game-changer for woodworkers worldwide.

Features of the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill

Build and Design

The Alaskan Granberg Chainsaw Mill boasts a sturdy and robust design. Built with high-quality steel and aluminum, this mill is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy woodcutting.

Cutting Capacity

With a cutting width that can be adjusted to cut logs up to 27″ wide and 13″ deep, the Alaskan Chainsaw Mill can handle a wide range of lumber sizes.

Portability and Assembly

ALASKAN Granberg Assembly

Despite its robust build, the Alaskan Granberg is surprisingly portable and easy to assemble, making it perfect for onsite milling.

Versatility

With its adjustable features, the Alaskan Granberg mill can be used with chainsaws of various sizes, providing great versatility.

Pros and Cons of the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill

When it comes to the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill, there are a variety of advantages and disadvantages that any potential buyer should be aware of. By taking the time to understand these, you can make an informed decision about whether this tool is the right fit for your woodworking needs.

Pros

1. High-quality construction: One of the biggest selling points of the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill is its high-quality construction. Made from a mix of steel and aluminum, it’s designed to be both lightweight and incredibly durable. This means it can stand up to repeated use in the outdoors without failing or becoming damaged.

2. Portable and versatile: The design of the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill lends itself to portability. This mill can be easily disassembled and packed away for transport, making it a fantastic tool for those who need to mill lumber in different locations. Additionally, it is compatible with various chainsaw models, providing great versatility.

3. Wide cutting capacity: With the ability to cut logs up to 27″ wide and 13″ deep, the ALASKAN Chainsaw Mill is capable of handling a wide range of lumber sizes. This flexibility allows it to be used for a variety of projects.

4. Affordability: In comparison to a traditional sawmill, the ALASKAN Chainsaw Mill is much more affordable. This makes it a more accessible option for woodworkers on a budget or hobbyists who cannot justify the expense of a full-scale sawmill.

Cons

1. Physical effort: One downside of the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill is that it requires significant physical effort to operate. Cutting logs into lumber is a labor-intensive process, and while this chainsaw mill makes the task more manageable, it can still be quite physically demanding.

2. Limited cut length: Although the ALASKAN Chainsaw Mill can handle a wide range of lumber sizes, it’s limited in terms of cut length. The length of the lumber you can cut is dependent on the size of the chainsaw bar you have, which can limit the tool’s functionality.

3. Time-consuming: Another disadvantage of the ALASKAN Chainsaw Mill is that it can be quite time-consuming to mill lumber, especially when compared to larger, more automated sawmills. This may be a deciding factor for those who need to produce large quantities of lumber quickly.

4. Chainsaw not included: It’s also worth noting that the ALASKAN Chainsaw Mill does not come with a chainsaw. This means you’ll need to already have one or be prepared to purchase one separately.

User Experience

Users commend the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill for its ease of use, efficiency, and high-quality lumber it produces.

Comparison with other Chainsaw Mills

When comparing the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill to other chainsaw mills on the market, a few things stand out. To help provide a clearer picture, we’ll be comparing it to two popular models, the Norwood PortaMill PM14 and the Carmyra Portable Chainsaw Mill.

ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill vs Norwood PortaMill PM14

The Norwood PortaMill PM14 is a heavy-duty chainsaw mill capable of cutting logs up to 14 inches in diameter. While the Norwood model is sturdy and efficient, it lacks the cutting capacity of the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill. The Granberg mill can handle logs up to 27″ wide and 13″ deep, providing far greater versatility for a range of projects.

Moreover, the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill is designed for better portability. Its lightweight yet sturdy aluminum and steel construction allows it to be easily disassembled and transported, compared to the relatively heavier Norwood model.

ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill vs Carmyra Portable Chainsaw Mill

The Carmyra Portable Chainsaw Mill is another option often considered by woodworkers. While it boasts a similar cutting capacity to the Granberg mill, it falls short in terms of build quality. The ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill’s high-quality aluminum and steel construction outclasses the Carmyra mill, which is primarily made of steel, making it heavier and less portable.

The Carmyra mill also requires a chainsaw with a bar length of at least 20 inches, which limits its compatibility compared to the Granberg mill, which offers greater versatility in accommodating various chainsaw sizes.

Price and Availability

The ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill offers excellent value for money and is readily available from various online and physical stores.

Who Should Buy the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill?

The ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill is a versatile tool that can prove valuable to a variety of users. Its usefulness isn’t limited to a specific group of people but spans different professions and hobbies.

1. Woodworking Professionals

The ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill is an excellent tool for woodworking professionals who regularly need custom-sized lumber for their projects. The mill’s capability to cut large logs into specific dimensions can significantly reduce the costs associated with purchasing pre-cut lumber.

2. DIY Enthusiasts and Hobbyists

Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and hobbyists who enjoy woodworking projects will also benefit greatly from this tool. The chainsaw mill allows them to convert logs into usable lumber for various DIY projects, from furniture to small construction projects.

3. Remote Cabin Owners and Homesteaders

For cabin owners and homesteaders, particularly those in remote areas where access to sawmills is limited, the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill can be a game-changer. It allows them to mill lumber onsite, providing a cost-effective and practical solution for building and maintaining their homes.

4. Landscapers and Gardeners

Landscapers and gardeners who regularly deal with felled trees can use the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill to recycle these into useful materials such as garden furniture, fences, or decking.

5. Environmental Conservationists

The ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill could also be a great asset for those involved in environmental conservation. It allows for selective logging, which is a more sustainable practice as it minimizes waste and promotes responsible use of resources.

Maintenance of the Granberg Chainsaw Mill

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, can ensure the longevity of your Granberg mill.

Safety Precautions

Using protective equipment and following safety guidelines is crucial when operating the Alaskan Chainsaw Mill.

Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most Out of Your Granberg Chainsaw Mill

Getting the most out of your ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill requires some insight into how to use, maintain, and optimize the tool for your specific needs. Here are some valuable tips and tricks:

1. Keep Your Chainsaw Sharp

The efficiency of your ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill heavily depends on the sharpness of your chainsaw. A sharp chain will allow you to cut smoothly and quickly, reducing the amount of work you need to put in and increasing the quality of your cuts. Therefore, regularly sharpening your chainsaw is a must.

2. Maintain Proper Chain Tension

Another essential aspect is maintaining the correct chain tension. An improperly tensioned chain can lead to inefficient cutting or worse, damage to the chainsaw or mill. Ensure the chain is snug against the bar but still able to rotate freely.

3. Use the Right Chainsaw Size

The ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill is compatible with a range of chainsaw sizes, but that doesn’t mean all chainsaws are equally suitable. Larger, more powerful chainsaws will generally perform better, especially for larger logs.

4. Level the First Cut

When starting a cut, make sure the first cut or ‘slabbing cut’ is level. This determines the flatness of your subsequent cuts. The ALASKAN mill does come with a leveling system, but using a high-quality level to double-check can be helpful.

5. Safety First

Never compromise on safety when using the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill. Always use the recommended safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and sturdy footwear. Also, ensure your work area is safe and clear of debris, and that you have a firm, stable footing.

6. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Lastly, regular cleaning and maintenance of the mill will extend its life and ensure it stays in good working condition. This includes cleaning any sap or resin from the mill, checking all bolts and nuts for tightness, and regularly lubricating moving parts.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll ensure that your ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill operates at its full potential, making your wood milling tasks more efficient and enjoyable.

Conclusion

The ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill, with its robust design, portability, and versatility, is a fantastic tool for any woodworker.

FAQs

  1. What is the cutting capacity of the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill?
  2. How portable is the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill?
  3. What safety precautions should I take when using the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill?
  4. How do I maintain the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill?
  5. Where can I purchase the ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill?

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Amazon – ALASKAN Granberg Chainsaw Mill

1 comments

Too light duty, easily moves put pf place, get yourself a double walled ladder

Daniel Adams
Kyle
May 31, 2023 9:35 am

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