The "Micro Sawmill"

The Alaskan mill works great, but setting up for a cut in the middle of the woods is a lot of work, takes a lot of time and really hurt my back. There should be a better way, so over the winter I came up with the "Micro Sawmill v1.0". Basically it is intended to solve two problems ... (1) make the setup for the first cut quick and simpler and (2) get the log off the ground so I don't have to kill my back.

Here's the Google Sketchup model:


It is basically six level supports about 16" high to raise the log about waist high and three "goalpost" supports for a guideboard. I saw where some guys use a ladder instead of a guideboard, so that's what I'm using in v1.0. The goalpost supports are adjustable to accommodate various log diameters up to 20". The six supports are pressure treated 4x4s sunk a couple of feet into the ground. The total length of the micro-sawmill is 16'; it could easily handle a 20' log if needed.

Here's a shot of the Micro-sawmill with a maple log ready to go ...