The Best Portable Sawmill

What is the best portable sawmill?  Well, that depends on what you want to do with the portable sawmill in question.  The best portable sawmill for you might be manual or hydraulic, for example.

Manual:

A manual portable sawmill can be operated alone or with a partner.  Many manual mills can be pulled apart easily and brought to a different job site every time.  So, a manual mill is a good choice if you are a part-time sawyer or simply looking to help friends and family members with projects by cutting some lumber for them.

Hydraulic:

A hydraulic portable sawmill is usually used for larger or more consistent jobs.  So, if you are a full-time sawyer who wants to cut logs as quickly as possible, you should invest in a hydraulic mill.  However, you should be aware that most hydraulic mills are usually not transported.  So, despite the name, you may want to bring the lumber to the mill, rather than bringing the portable sawmill to the lumber.

Reputation:

The type of sawmill is not the only important factor.  Reputation is also a major thing to consider.  A company that has been in business for a long time is likely to offer higher quality equipment.  One such company is Cook's Saw. 

Would you like to know more about choosing the best portable sawmill for you?  If so, all you have to do is visit www.cookssaw.com.  They have many different products and resources available for you to look at.  Not only that, but their customer service can't be beat.

Using Portable Sawmills

Using portable sawmills can be complicated, especially if you are upgrading from one model to another.  No two are exactly alike, after all.  So, let's look at some things that can make using your portable sawmill easier.

Hydraulics:

First, you really should invest in a hydraulic portable sawmill.  Hydraulics tend to make things go faster and more smoothly.  So, a hydraulic mill can allow you to cut more board feet per hour than a manual mill would allow.

A Log Lifter:

If you are going to buy a hydraulic mill, look for one with a hydraulic log lifter.  Otherwise, you will need a lot of man power to lift those logs onto your portable sawmill.  That will take more time and effort than you probably want to spend.

Easy Controls:

No matter what sort of portable sawmill you choose, look for one with easy to understand controls.  Many of the fully hydraulic models only require a push of a button to select the right options.  After that almost the entire process is automatic.

Sturdiness:

A small manual portable sawmill is built mainly for movement, not strength.  It can handle small logs and it can be taken to different sites easily.  However, it is not going to have a lot of power and toughness.  A hydraulic mill is going to be much sturdier, but a bit less portable.  So, you have to decide which traits you value more.

Would you like to learn more about using portable sawmills?  If so, just go to www.cookssaw.com.

Finding The Perfect Portable Sawmill For Your Business

Finding the perfect portable sawmill for your business is not always easy.  After all, there are a lot of factors to consider.  Luckily, there are some quick tips that can help.

Trust The Company:

When you're choosing a portable sawmill, it's best to choose a company that you can trust.  A company that is well-known for quality products and great customer service is more likely to supply you with a great sawmill.  One example of such a company is Cook's Saw.  They have been a sawmilling industry leader for years.

Trust The Portable Sawmill Itself:

You should also trust the portable sawmill itself.  It's best not to buy a model that is too old because the technology and construction might be outdated.  On the other hand, buying the latest model may not be good either.  It's usually best to buy a relatively new model, but one that has an established good reputation.

Look For The Right Features:

Each portable sawmill has its own unique features.  It's important to select the features that you like.  Some examples include:

ñ  A Mechanical Log Turner

ñ  A Hydraulic Log Lift

ñ  Easy To Understand Controls

ñ  A Proper Lubrication System

Size and capacity are also important features.  Make sure that the lumber you plan to saw will fit properly on your chosen sawmill.  Over-sized lumber will require a large mill.

Do you want to learn more about how to find the perfect portable sawmill for your business?  If so, just visit www.cookssaw.com.

Increasing Your Portable Sawmill Business

If you own a portable sawmill business and you want to increase your profits, what can you do?  Well, one thing you can do is increase the types of wood that you process.  For example, depending on the area you live in, you could start utilizing driftwood and downed trees.  It's amazing the things you could create out of wood that has been cast away.  Not only that, but it can often be acquired for free, or at least cheaply.

Of course, it takes a special sort of portable sawmill to be able to process various pieces of cast away wood, especially if that wood has knots, nails or other issues.  That's why you'll need a heavy duty portable sawmill designed for the job.  One such portable sawmill is the AC36 from Cook's Saw.

The great thing about the AC36 is that it can help you to increase your profits in other ways, too.  For example, you will be able to take the sawmill right to the lumber supply, if need be.  Also, the Cook's Saw AC36 utilizes extra thin, extra flat blades called Cook's Super Sharp blades.  Those blades are durable and tough.  So, they don't need to be replaced as often as other blades.  They also have the power to cut through even the most unruly pieces of lumber.

Would you like to learn more about how to increase your portable sawmill business?  If so, just click here to learn how to adapt your business to the changing times and get the best possible equipment to sustain your business.

Avoiding Portable Sawmill Problems

If you're thinking of purchasing a portable sawmill, you aren't alone.  More and more people are getting into the portable sawmill industry lately.  After all, portable sawmills can be a great source of income.

Of course, not all portable sawmills are alike.  In fact, many of them can come with their share of problems.  Here are a couple of common problems and how to avoid them.

The Bed Can't Support The Lumber:

It's important to make sure that your chosen portable sawmill can support the weight of your chosen logs.  Some logs can weight 10,000 pounds or more.  Clearly, a small portable sawmill won't be able to handle such a load.  Instead, you should get a larger, more heavy-duty mill.

Of course, the physical size of the portable sawmill isn't a guarantee that it can hold the logs.  You have to make sure that the bed, the log turner and the log lift are all constructed properly.  Fully hydraulic portable sawmills, for example, are strong, efficient and easy to use.

The Blades Keep Slipping Out Of The Cut:

Another common portable sawmill problem is that the blades may be slipping out of the cut.  For example, if you have a portable sawmill with a canti-lever design, you may find that the head of the mill is not stable enough.  It may be easy to shake.  Also, one side will be constantly running behind the other.  That leads to improper or slower cuts. 

The best way to avoid that problem is to get a portable sawmill that has a 4-post head design.  The 4-posts work as a framework to create stability and keep the blade moving smoothly and in a straight line.

Would you like some more great tips on avoiding portable sawmill problems and buying the right sawmill to suit your needs?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com.

Buying A Portable Sawmill Based On Reputation

There are many things that you have to consider when you are picking a portable sawmill.  For example, you might want to get a small, medium or large portable sawmill, based on your needs.  You also might want to get a fully hydraulic portable sawmill for ease of use.  However, while you're considering all of the features of each sawmill, you should also be considering reputation.

Reputation Of The Portable Sawmill Itself:

The reputation of the portable sawmill itself is important.  How new is the model?  How popular is it?  Has it had good reviews?  Those are all important questions to answer before you buy a certain portable sawmill model.

Reputation Of The Company:

The reputation of the company is also important.  For example, Cook's Saw has been in the business for years.  The folks at Cook's are well-known for being innovative industry leaders.  In fact, the Cook's Super Sharp blades are widely accepted as the best portable sawmill blades on the market.

Other companies that aren't as well-established may not offer the top technology.  So, you should be careful to only buy from and work with knowledgeable sawyers, and sawmill supply companies, such as Cook's Saw.  That way you can be guaranteed to have great equipment, accessories and customer support.

Of course, there are other things that you have to think about when you are buying a portable sawmill.  After all, it is a huge investment.  Would you like to learn more about selecting the perfect model for your company?  If so, just visit www.cooksaw.com for tips.

Buying A Portable Sawmill Based On Professional Needs

There are a lot of great portable sawmills out there.  In fact, companies like Cook's Saw have been developing powerful portable sawmills for years.  However, not every sawmill works for every sawyer.  So, if you're looking to buy one, you should consider your professional needs.

                             
Start by determining how much lumber you want to cut.  If you own a small family operation or only have a couple of employees, a small or medium-sized portable sawmill will do nicely.  If, on the other hand, you have a large operation, you may need a larger, more heavy-duty portable sawmill.

You also have to consider the portability of the sawmill.  Are you going to be able to to transport a large sawmill to the lumber, or will you be mainly bringing the lumber to the mill?  Be sure to buy a portable sawmill that you are capable of transporting, if you plan to bring the mill to the lumber.

Next, consider the type of lumber that you will be cutting.  Will you be dealing mainly with harder woods or softer woods?  Will you be cutting small logs or large logs?  Will you be dealing with straight logs, bent or knotted logs or logs or logs with other sorts of issues?  The larger, more heavy-duty portable sawmills are better equipped to handle over sided or problematic lumber cutting.

So, as you can see, there is a lot to think about when you are choosing a portable sawmill.  Do you want to learn how to simplify the process?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com to browse through a great collection of portable sawmills and get some excellent buying advice.

Portable Sawmill Functions And Features

Whether you are a new or seasoned sawyer, you should know the importance of keeping up with certain new advancements in portable sawmill designs.  After all, not all portable sawmills are alike.  So, you need to be familiar with their functions and features, especially if you are interested in buying one for the first time or adding a new one to your operation.

Hydraulics:

Hydraulics are the best features to look for in portable sawmills.  Hydraulic power makes sawmills strong and efficient.  It also reduces the amount of work that the sawyers have to do.  The fact that hydraulic portable sawmills are capable of high-speed efficiency makes them the perfect choice for anyone who runs a lumber operation.

In fact, a hydraulic log lift is practically an indispensable tool in a sawyer's arsenal.  The hydraulic log lift is capable of lifting logs that weigh thousands of pounds, which certainly cuts back on the amount of time and man power required.

Log Turners:

Log turners are also important components of great portable sawmills.  A sturdy, mechanical log turner is essential because giant, heavy logs with one side sawn are difficult, if not impossible, to turn by hand.  It would take far too much time and far too many strong men to be worth the effort.

Many portable sawmills also feature other great options, such as board drag back systems and lubrication systems.  Do you want to know more about all of the possible portable sawmill features you could look for?  If so, just visit www.cookssaw.com.

Portable Sawmill Inventions And Innovations Throughout The Years

Portable sawmills have been around for several years now, but they haven't remained exactly the same.  Companies like Cook's Saw are constantly on the lookout for new and wonderful sawmilling innovations and inventions.  That's why Cook's Saw is solidified as one of the great portable sawmilling sources.

Way back in the 1980's Cook's Saw recognized that band saws were evolving.  Many band saws were starting to use Kerf blades to cut back on sawdust and improve efficiency.  So, the owners of Cook's Saw took it upon themselves to design and build a sawmill that could turn and cut 36" diameter logs using Kerf blades.  Little did they know what an innovation that would be.

As the years passed, Cook's Saw came up with even more inventions to help portable sawmills work faster and more efficiently.  The chain log turner and the board drag back are two of the innovations that really changed the portable sawmill industry.

These days Cook's Saw's innovations include "Super Sharp" blades made of silicone, magnesium and chromium.  Blades are still thin and efficient and they last even longer than the old styles.  That means more profits for professional sawyers because the blades don't need to be replaced as often.

As the years have gone by, Cook's Saw has continued to bring the latest and greatest in portable sawmilling inventions and innovations.  Not only that, but the company shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.  So, do you want to get in on the profitable portable sawmill business?  If so, click here to visit Cook's Saw and get started.

Why The Tooth Face Of A Portable Sawmill Blade Is So Important

As a portable sawmill owner or a person who wants to get into the portable sawmill business, you may have heard a lot about different types of bandsaw blades.  One of the phrases being bandied about a lot in the world of bandsaw blades is “tooth face”.  What is a tooth face and why is it important.

A tooth face is, to put it simply, the leading edge of a bandsaw blade tooth.  It's the part of the blade tooth that actually slices into the lumber.  That makes it one of the absolute most important bandsaw blade components.

The tooth face needs to be sharp, if you want the lumber to get cut properly and quickly.  That's why it's a good idea to invest in a blade sharpener and use it to keep your blades operating in top condition.  The easiest way to tell if a blade tooth needs to be sharpened is that dull tooth faces will have shiny spots.

Just be sure that you are primarily sharpening the tooth faces, not the gullets.  The gullets are the valleys between each pair of teeth on the blade.  Over-sharpening the gullets can wear out a portable sawmill blade prematurely.  Since gullets aren't responsible for the actual cutting, they don't tend to wear down anywhere near as fast as tooth faces.

Once your tooth faces are properly sharpened, don't stop there.  There are a lot of other things that you can do to ensure that your blades are working as well as possible.  Would you like to learn what those things are?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com to learn more about keeping your blades sharp.

Is A Portable Sawmill Really Portable?

Is a portable sawmill really portable?  Well, that all depends on what type and size you buy.  Honestly, anything can be portable, if you have the right vehicle and trailer with which to haul it.  However, some portable sawmills are definitely easier to use than others.

The smallest portable sawmills can often be easily towed by a pickup truck.  That is, of course, if you have the right type of hauling trailer.  Luckily, many portable sawmills are sold along with the proper hauling trailers.

In fact, some models can even be taken apart.  Their parts can be put in the bed of the truck and driven to anyplace that the pickup truck can go.  That eliminates the need for a trailer.  Of course, it will be up to you to reassemble the portable sawmill at your destination and pull it apart again when the job is done.

Larger portable sawmills are not as easy to haul.  So, you may be a bit limited, as far as where you can take them.  However, what they lack in portability they make up for in speed, strength and durability.

If you plan to bring most of the wood to the sawmill, a larger model might be perfect for you.  Many of them are fully hydraulic.  Some even come with hydraulic log lifters.  In fact, all of the best production portable sawmills are larger, more heavy duty models.

So, do what sort of portable sawmill is right for you?  Visit www.cookssaw.com to learn more about the different available models.  In no time at all, you will find the perfect portable sawmill for your business.

Portable Sawmill Blade Flexibility Versus Rigidity

As a sawyer, you probably already know that the right blades are essential, if you want your portable sawmill to run efficiently.  There are a lot of factors that go into picking the perfect portable sawmill blades.  So, it's not a decision that should be made quickly.

Flexibility:

Flexibility is one of the biggest factors to consider when you are picking a bandsaw blade.  You might not think of a large, heavy, metal blade as being flexible, but many bandsaw blades are flexible at a molecular level.  Their molecules can contract and expand thousands of times in order to create those perfect cuts.

The ratio of each type of metal in a bandsaw blade determines how flexible it will be.  The more flexible a blade is, the more likely it is to last for a while.  Of course, that also depends on how sharp you keep it and what type of lumber you are cutting.

Rigidity:

For heavy-duty jobs, you may require a bandsaw blade that is more rigid.  Rigid blades are sometimes stronger.  However, their lack of flexibility means that they will probably break and need replacing more often than their more flexible counterparts.  So, you might have to pay more in the long run.

There's something to be said for both rigid and flexible portable sawmill blades.  That's why the folks at Cook's Saw have created several different types of blades, including the Cook’s DuraTooth™ and SilvaChrome™ blades.  So, would you like to learn some other factors that can help you pick the perfect blade?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com today.

Understanding Portable Sawmill Blade Teeth Terminology

If you happen to be new in the lumber industry, don't worry.  A good portable sawmill and the right blades to go along with it can take you a long way.  However, it's very important that you understand how to care for your blades.

For example, do you know what the gullet of a blade is?  Simply put, it's the empty space between each of the blade's teeth.  Those little valleys are what helps the sawdust to move out of the cut so that the blade can just keep on going, like a hot knife through butter.

It's also important to understand the hook angle and the tooth pitch of each blade.  The hook angle is the angle at which the blade cuts into the lumber.  An acceptable range is 8 to 10 degrees.  Too far beyond either end of that and you'll bend and break your blades.

The number of teeth on every blade, known as tooth pitch or tooth spacing, and the tooth face are also important.  More or less teeth can influence your cut and so can a tooth face (leading tooth edge) that isn't sharp.

All of those things can create problems in their own ways.  That's why it's important to sharpen your portable sawmill blades regularly and buy the right blades for the job at hand.  Would you like to learn more about how to make the perfect blade choices for your portable sawmill business?  If so, just visit www.cookssaw.com for some more great tips.

Choosing Portable Sawmill Blade Bodies

If you own a portable sawmill and you are having trouble with your blades, it may be time to get new ones.  There are a lot of different bandsaw blades to choose from and they each have different features.  So, the best way to start is to determine what sort of cutting you'll be doing and get a blade that has an appropriate body.

The molecules in a portable sawmill blade are made up of different metals, including chromium, silicon and magnesium.  The ratio of those metals determines how rigid or flexible the bandsaw blade itself is.  As the saw needs to flex, the molecules can contract and expand accordingly, at least in a flexible blade.  In fact, that blade can endure that process thousands of times.  Although, it will still wear out eventually.

In general, it's best to have a blade that is at least somewhat flexible.  That way it can easily “bounce back” and will be less likely to snap or break.  However, there are some situations where you might want a more rigid blade.  It depends on your personal preference and the types of lumber that you will be sawing.

The important thing to remember about a rigid blade is that it will break more quickly than a more flexible one.  So, you need to factor that into your budget and your decision making process.

Would you like to know more about how to maximize your portable sawmill blade productivity?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com to learn about Cook’s blades, such as the Cook's DuraTooth™ and SilvaChrome™ blades.

Upgrading Your Portable Sawmill

If you own a small portable sawmill, you know that it can be good for a lot of things.  It can help you to get rid of small logs on your property and even turn small or medium sized logs on your neighbors' properties into useable boards.  In fact, it is ideal for creating inexpensive lumber to use in a lot of small weekend projects.

As you may have noticed, though, a small portable sawmill can't do everything.  That's why you may be thinking of upgrading to a larger model.  In fact, that's exactly how a lot of lumber businesses start.  First it is a hobby, then a part-time business and before you know it you are quitting your day job to be a full-time sawyer.

When the time comes to make that transition, you will have a lot of possible upgrade options.  The best option is to look into a fully hydraulic portable sawmill, if you have the budget for it.  Once you have a large hydraulic bandsaw mill, you won't need to upgrade again for quite a long time.

You see, hydraulic portable sawmills are built to be tough and sturdy.  They are meant to last for a long time and to do anything that you could possibly want them to do.  They can hold huge logs and work at high speeds.  Many of them also have buttons and switches that make the entire process of lumber cutting much easier for you, the sawyer.

So, are you looking to upgrade to a new portable sawmill?  If you are, visit www.cookssaw.com to see some of the best hydraulic portable sawmills on today's market.

Embarking On A Career In Portable Sawmill Business

If you're going to embark on a career in the portable sawmill business, you should definitely invest in equipment from Cook's Saw.  At least, that's what sawyer Ray Lockhart of Virginia and many other sawyers say.  Ray started out using Cook's band saw blades in a different mill, but he quickly upgraded to a Cook's hydraulic AC-3651D mill and has never looked back.

Ray is quick to tell anyone who will listen that Cook's Saw has excellent customer support.  However, it's the equipment that really makes Cook's a winner.  They have been leaders in the sawmilling industry for years and it shows in their equipment.  Ray is particularly fond of the heavy duty log turner that came with his portable sawmill and the hydraulics that make cutting lumber a breeze.

When Ray bought his AC-3651D hydraulic portable sawmill he also invested in sharpening tools from Cook's.  Cook's blades are known for being the strongest and best in the business, but all blades need to be sharpened sometimes.  Not only are Cook's portable sawmills built to last, but their sharpeners, edgers and other pieces of equipment are the best.  They helped Ray to embark on a career in the portable sawmill business and they can help you, too.

So, do you want to embark on a career as a sawyer, just like Ray did?  If so, give yourself the best chance at success.  Invest in the best portable sawmill equipment and make sure that you have the best customer support possible.  You can find all of that at www.cookssaw.com.

Turning A Hobby Into A Portable Sawmill Business

Ray Lockhart is a trained and certified machinist.  He also happens to work four days a week for 10 hours a day at a paper mill near his home in Virginia.  You would think that Ray would relax on the weekends, but he doesn't.  Instead, he turns to his new favorite hobby, which happens to be a portable sawmill business.

When he began sawmilling, Ray simply wanted to build a new log home for his wife and children.  After doing a lot of research, he thought that the best and cheapest way would be to cut the lumber himself.  So, he invested in a portable sawmill and got to work.

These days, as friends and neighbors have learned of Ray's accomplishment and as they found out that he owned a portable sawmill, they have helped him to build up quite the side business.  He works two days a week at his lumber business and still maintains his full time job at the paper mill.

As his hobby has grown into a side business, Ray has had to adapt a bit.  Part of that adaptation has involved buying a AC-3651D hydraulic portable sawmill from Cook's Saw.  His old sawmill simply wasn't meant to do the jobs that he currently has.  “I compared Cook’s sawmill to some others I looked at, and I decided to buy a new sawmill from Cook’s because I was so satisfied with their blades over the years and because they were very knowledgeable.” said Ray.

Do you want to turn a hobby into a portable sawmill business, as Ray did?  If so, just go to www.cookssaw.com to get started.

Taking Advantage Of Fabulous Portable Sawmill Features

Ray Lockhart is a sawyer from Virginia.  Like most sawyers these days, Ray uses a portable sawmill.  In fact, he uses a hydraulic portable sawmill from Cook's Saw, called the AC-3651D.  Every day Ray is taking advantage of some fabulous portable sawmill features.

For one thing, after several failed attempts at using other blades, Ray learned that Cook's Super Sharp blades are the best.  “They sawed straighter. The other blades would dip and dive, so they wouldn’t saw true.” Ray says.

When Ray bought his Cook's AC-3651D it also came with a blade sharpener and an edger, in a package deal.  Ray has found that, not only are Cook's blades better, but sharpening them can keep them working well for even longer.  So, it's a real money saver.

Another thing that Ray loves about his portable sawmill is that it's all hydraulic.  The hydraulic lift and easy to use mechanisms make sawing lumber as simple as can be.  In fact, his sawmill even has a heavy duty log turner.  It keeps things moving smoothly and ensures the best possible cuts.

It's clear that Ray is taking full advantage of his Cook's sawmill.  Many other sawyers are doing the same with their portable sawmills from Cook's Saw.  So, wouldn't you like to be taking advantage of fabulous portable sawmill features too?  If so, you definitely need to visit www.cookssaw.com today.  The Cook's website is full of tips for improving your lumber business and all of the tools that you need to do exactly that.

Determining Which Portable Sawmill Is Right For You

Determining which portable sawmill is right for you is not always easy.  Yet, there are some key considerations that can help.  For example, start by deciding whether you want to be a full-time or part-time sawyer.  If you only plan to do an occasional project, a manual sawmill might be best.

On the other hand, being a full-time sawyer is going to require a full-time sort of sawmill.  Larger models with hydraulic power might be a better choice.  After all, they are meant to be both tough and fast.

Budget is another thing to think about.  A manual sawmill might cost around $10,000.  A hydraulic one might be 3 or 4 times that cost or more.  Yet, the investment may be worth it, if you intend to turn it into a full-time business.

You also need to consider log location.  Large, hydraulic mills are not necessarily as portable as some people might think.  You might find it easier to bring the logs to the mill.  Although, you can transport even the largest of portable sawmills, if you have the right trailers and equipment.

A smaller portable sawmill is actually much more portable.  So, it might be the best choice for you, if you intend to bring the mill to the logs.

Do you want to know what other factors go into choosing the right portable sawmill?  If so, all you have to do is visit the folks at www.cookssaw.com.  They know everything there is to know about the portable sawmill industry and they will be happy to help you down the road to sawmill success.

Key Pieces Of Equipment To Make Your Portable Sawmill A Success

If you want your portable sawmill business to be a success, you have to have certain key pieces of equipment.  Just ask Alvin King, who owns a sawmill business in Indiana.  His business has grown by leaps and bounds since he purchased certain pieces of equipment from Cook's Saw.

When Alvin began his business he was using a manual mill.  However, he quickly realized that he would need machinery capable of cutting larger lumber at a faster pace, if he wanted to expand his business.  That's why he purchased a hydraulic sawmill from Cook's Saw.

Using the hydraulic sawmill, Alvin was quickly able to cut logs that were 20' long and 36” in diameter with no problems at all.  Well, he had no problems except one.  That problem was that Alvin's band saw blades kept breaking far too quickly.

It was that problem that caused Alvin to invest in blade sharpening tools from Cook's Saw.  Using the sharpener, as well as blade flattening equipment from Cook's, Alvin has increased the life span of his blades.

Alvin also owns a Cook's resaw and a Cook's edger and he wouldn't trade them for the world.  In fact, he loves Cook's equipment because each piece is built to be tough and to last for a long time, as well as to do the job at hand as quickly as possible. 

So, would you like to make your portable sawmill business an even bigger success like Alvin did?  If so, go to www.cookssaw.com to learn about each piece of equipment and how it can be beneficial to your lumber business.

Portable Sawmill Perks

If you're thinking of purchasing a sawmill, you probably know that sawmilling can be a lucrative business.  There are a lot of sawmills that you could choose from.  However, there are several perks that are specific to buying a hydraulic portable sawmill from Cook's Saw.

One interesting thing about portable sawmills is that you can use them to cut down costs on your own personal projects.  For example, a sawyer by the name of Ray Lockhart started a portable sawmill business in his Virginia town only after using the portable sawmill to build his very own custom log home.  He saved thousands of dollars by doing the lumber work himself.

If you plan to use your sawmill to start a business or improve your existing lumber business, you really should get a portable sawmill.  That's because another perk is that portable sawmills can go almost anywhere.  You can bring them straight to the logs and, therefore, cut back on both time and money spent.

A hydraulic portable sawmill from Cook's also has other perks.  For example, the hydraulic lift can easily help you to get logs into the mill with little effort.  Also, the sturdy construction will help you to get straighter cuts and be more efficient in your business.

Do you want to make your lumber business the best it can be?  If so, you really need a portable sawmill to help you do the job.  Visit www.cookssaw.com to learn more about them and select the perfect one for your lumber business.

Benefits Of An Environmentally Sound Portable Sawmill Business

There are many benefits to creating an environmentally sound portable sawmill business and those benefits aren't just for the environment.  It can also benefit your bank account to employ environmentally sound practices at your lumber mill.  In fact, if you go about the process properly, you can save not just the environment, but also time, money and trouble.

For example, it's more environmentally sound to sharpen, flatten and set your band saw blades several times before you actually replace them.  That way, you won't be wasteful.  The added benefit is that you won't have to spend as much money on replacement blades as you would if you didn't bother sharpening, flattening and setting them.

There are two ways to go about the sharpening process.  One way is to send your blades to someone else to have them sharpened.  Another is to simply do the sharpening, flattening and setting in-house.  Alvin King is an expert sawyer and he gets all of his in-house sharpening tools from Cook's Saw.

Another way that sawyers are saving money and being environmentally friendly is by knowing their limitations.  For example, Alvin King often resells lumber that he cannot cut himself.  That minimizes wasted lumber and brings in more profits for Mr. King.

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to be both profitable and environmentally friendly in the portable sawmill industry.  Those are just a few examples.  Would you like to see more?  If so, just go to www.cookssaw.com to find some great sawmilling equipment and handy businesses tips about making the most of the portable sawmill business.

One Virginia Man's Portable Sawmill Story

Ray Lockhart is in the paper mill industry.  In fact, he is an accomplished machinist.  So, when he and his wife wanted to build a log home, it was logical to Ray that he should do it himself.  That's why he got himself a portable sawmill and soon got to work.

It took several years for Ray and his wife to build their home, but cutting the lumber themselves saved them a lot of money.  It also allowed them to fully customize their home, rather than just buying a log home kit.

Building his own home would have been enough for Ray, but it wasn't enough for his friends and neighbors.  They found out that Ray had a portable sawmill and they soon started giving him all sorts of part-time lumber cutting jobs.

Within a very short time, Ray found that he could operate his portable sawmill two days a week and make a great supplemental income.  In fact, he quickly bought a new Cook's portable sawmill, sharpener, edger and blades and started his own business.  Now, Ray works at the paper mill 4 days a week and only runs the sawmill on the weekend.  The supplemental income is great because Ray has a wife and 5 daughters to support, but what Ray really likes is the smell of the sawdust and the pleasure that being a sawyer brings.

Would you like to experience that pleasure like Ray?  If so, just go to www.cookssaw.com and invest in your very own portable sawmill and accessories.  In no time at all you will be enjoying the great outdoors and making an excellent extra income in the process.

Portable Sawmill Projects

If you are the type of person that likes to do a lot of home improvement projects, you may want to get a small portable sawmill.  After all, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of portable sawmill projects that you will enjoy.

For example, let's say that you want a new tool shed.  However, maybe buying a pre-built shed is too expensive.  Even if it is within your budget, what do you do if you can't find the style that you want?  Well, if you had a portable sawmill, you could build your own.

If you are even more industrious than that, you could use a portable sawmill to cut your own lumber to build a deck.  Just imagine sitting on your new deck watching the sun go down at night.  By cutting your own lumber that dream is definitely achievable, even on the tightest of budgets.

A third thing that you can do with a portable sawmill is clear some property.  It's a great way to get rid of any trees that you don't want.  You can clear any logs that fell after the last storm or clear a designated area to build a house, put in a pool or do whatever else you want.  The possibilities are limitless.

Just remember that not all portable sawmill projects are created equal.  If you intend to do projects every day, use giant logs or go into business, you may need a large portable sawmill.  Do you want to learn more about the differences between the small and large models before you decide?  If so, just visit www.cookssaw.com.

Economical Ways To Reduce Portable Sawmill Costs

As we all know, the economy isn't doing well right now.  However, that doesn't mean that you have to give up on your business, especially if you happen to be in the portable sawmill industry.  All you have to do is learn some economical ways to reduce your portable sawmill costs.

One such way is to cut more than just pallet stock.  The more types of cuts and the bigger the logs you can cut, the better off you will be.  That's why you may want to invest in a heavy duty portable sawmill, such as the ones made by Cook's Saw.

Another way to cut costs and raise portable sawmill profits is to reuse your blades.  In fact, Alvin King of Rochville, Indiana and many other sawyers like him have learned the value of having blades sharpened, flattened and set several times, rather than just replacing them immediately.

Alvin understands that value so much that he now sharpens his own blades on site.  That prevents him from having to spend extra money replacing blades.  So, he is able to pocket more profits.

Alvin also understands the economic state of the lumber market at all times.  For example, he resells certain lumber to other parties, rather than cutting it himself, which brings in even more profit, some of which is put towards improving his portable sawmill operation.

So, would you like to learn more tips for making your portable sawmill business as profitable as it can be?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com today.

The Story Of Alvin King – Successful Portable Sawmill Owner

If you want an example of portable sawmill success, take a look at Alvin King, who operates a portable sawmilling business just outside of  Rochville, Indiana.  He is a prime example of a sawyer who has managed to maintain a successful business, despite the changing times.

As a member of the Amish community, Alvin used to help out on his family's farm.  However, he found himself with a lot of spare time in the winter months.  That caused him to get into the sawmilling business.

When Alvin first started his own lumber business, he didn't have much equipment and he only cut pallet stock.  However, if that was all that Alvin did then he would have gone out of business long ago.  Instead, about three years ago, Alvin invested in a hydraulic portable sawmill from Cook's Saw.

Alvin soon begin to see his business changed.  He now had the ability to cut larger logs in more different ways and at a faster pace.  He soon began cutting cants and doing custom cuts.

Alvin also realized that he could save a lot of money by having his blades sharpened regularly.  However, he didn't want to outsource that work.  So, he bought blade sharpening, flattening and setting tools from Cook's Saw too.

New and improved machinery has allowed Alvin King to stay in business, no matter how the economy or the lumber industry changes around him.  Would you like your portable sawmill business to be as successful as Alvin's?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com to learn how to make your dream into a reality.

Why Bandsaws Are The Most Popular Portable Sawmills

There has always been a bit of a debate amongst sawyers regarding whether circular saws are better than bandsaws.  So, if you're looking for a portable sawmill, how do you know which is best?

Well, years ago circular saws were preferred.  Bandsaw blades tended to be a bit more flimsy and unreliable.  They also didn't cut through the lumber fast enough.  So, it's no wonder that people tended to prefer the traditional circular saws.

As with many things, though, technology and new designs have changed all of that.  Today's portable sawmills are primarily bandsaws.  Newer bandsaw models are built to be lasting and tough.  Thanks to stronger motors and cleaner sawmill designs, modern bandsaws cut through lumber much faster than they used to as well.

Circular saws can sometimes cut with a bit more precision, of course.  However, when it comes to large lumber operations, speed and uniformity are usually the more important factors.  That's why many sawyers are choosing portable bandsaws over circular saws, or at least making sure that they have one of each.

Portable bandsaw mills are also popular because they create less waste.  Their cuts are more precise.  That means that sawyers can get more usable cut lumber out of a log.  That is a money and resource saver.

Do you want to learn more about the benefits of portable sawmills.  If so, just visit www.cookssaw.com for some useful information.  Cook's Saw has been a leader in the portable sawmill industry for a long time.  Therefore, they can easily help you to choose the perfect bandsaw mill for you.

Diversifying Your Portable Sawmill Business

Owning a portable sawmill business can be tricky, especially in today's tough economic times.  Can you really get by on cutting just pallet stock?  Of course not!  That's why diversifying your portable sawmill business is so important, but exactly how do you do that?

Well, nobody understands diversifying the portable sawmill industry better than Alvin King.  He owns a portable sawmill business and he knows that business changes with the economic times, and even with the time of year.  That's why he has diversified his own portable sawmill business in many different ways since he started out.

Alvin began his business by using a manual mill to cut pallet stock.  Well, he still cuts pallet stock, but he uses a hydraulic mill from Cook's Saw to do it.  Not only that, but he also cuts cants, resells certain lumber without cutting it, does custom cuts and does his own in-house blade flattening, setting and sharpening.

There are several great things about having a diverse portable sawmill business, as Alvin knows.  One of those things is that you can keep up with the changing times.  Another is that you'll never be bored.  There's always something new and interesting to do at Alvin's mill.

What Alvin likes the most since he diversified his portable sawmill business, though, is that he has top-notch equipment, which is all provided by the folks at Cook's Saw.  So, do you want to be a diverse sawyer like Alvin?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com for some great equipment and tips.

Taking Care Of Your Portable Sawmill Blades

When it comes to taking care of portable sawmill blades, few people do it better than the folks at Cook's Saw.  They have the perfect tools for the job.  However, using those tools properly and wisely is up to the individual sawyer.

If you feel comfortable with the idea of sharpening your own portable sawmill blades, you can find some great sharpeners at Cook's Saw.  However, you should know that you won't just need a sharpener.  Actually, sharpening portable sawmill blades is a three-step process.

The first step is sharpening.  A sharp blade is an efficient blade, after all.  Yet, even the sharpest blade won't work well if the teeth aren't in alignment and the blade itself is bent.  That's why you can ignore steps two and three, which are flattening and setting the blade.

For some sawyers, the thrill of operating a portable sawmill is as great as the annoyance and agony of trying to sharpen their own blades.  It can seem impossible to achieve that perfectly efficient blade that all sawyers dream of on their own.  If that's how you feel about the process, you can certainly outsource the work and send your blades elsewhere to be sharpened, flattened and set.

On the other hand, you might be more of a hands-on portable sawmill user.  If that's the case, wouldn't you love to find your own equipment and do all of that yourself?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com to learn how.  It could save you from buying far too many replacement blades.

Manual And Hydraulic Portable Sawmill Benefits

If you have decided to get a portable sawmill, the next decision is which type to get.  The two main choices are manual portable sawmills and hydraulic portable sawmills.  Each choice definitely has its own distinctive benefits.

Manual Mill Benefits:

One of the biggest benefits of a manual portable sawmill is that it is usually small and easy to transport.  It is a portable sawmill in the truest sense because you can take it anywhere.  That includes on your own property or to a friend or neighbor's property.  In fact, you could become the go to person that takes care of your entire neighborhood's lumber cutting needs.

Another benefit of a manual portable sawmill is the price.  Although it is still a large investment, hydraulic sawmills cost a lot more.  So, if you are on a tight budget, you may need to start out with a manual mill.

Hydraulic Mill Benefits:

A hydraulic mill also has a couple of major benefits.  One is that it can cut much larger logs.  Therefore, it will allow you to pick from a wider range of starting timber.

The other benefit is that a hydraulic mill has more power than a manual mill.  Therefore, it can work faster and it tends to be a bit more accurate.  So, if you intend to start a full time lumber business, it would be a good choice.

Are you interested in seeing a complete pros and cons list for both manual and hydraulic portable sawmills?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com for more information.  That way you can make a completely informed decision.

Sharpening, Flattening And Setting Your Portable Sawmill Blades

Owning a portable sawmill these days can be a great thing, if you know how to make your business as efficient as possible.  If you are constantly breaking blades and cutting lumber improperly, you're going to lose a lot of time and money.  That's why you need to know how to take care of not just the sawmill itself, but also the blades.

First, you should know that all portable sawmill blades need to be replaced eventually.  There are no completely indestructible portable sawmill blades.  However, performing the proper maintenance on them and keeping them sharp can help you to avoid replacing them too often.  That can save you a lot of time, trouble and money.

When it comes to portable sawmill maintenance, the things you need to know about are sharpness, flatness and tooth setting.  You cannot just sharpen a blade and expect it to work perfectly.  If the teeth are out of alignment or the blade is bent, it can easily slip out of the cut and ruin a piece of lumber, as well as become bent even worse, possibly beyond repair.

You could take your blades to a professional and have them sharpened.  You could even ship them to that professional.  However, you might save even more money by sharpening, flattening and setting your portable sawmill blades on your own.  Would you like to learn how?  If so, you can visit www.cookssaw.com to find some great tools to help you keep your blades in perfect working condition for a longer period of time.

A Quick Portable Sawmill Blade Sharpening Story

If you own a portable sawmill, you probably already know that blade sharpening is important.  However, what if standard blade sharpening just isn't working for you?  Then what do you do?

Well, the best answer might be to send the blades to a full-service blade sharpener.  One of the better blade sharpeners around is Sam Burkholder, who is located in Verona, Missouri.

Sam's family has been in the sawmill business for years.  However, when Sam's brother gave him an old sharpening tool, Sam quickly found that he enjoyed sharpening band saw blades.  Soon, Sam even petitioned Cook's saw to make a hydraulic sharpening device, which they did.

Although sharpening each blade by hand takes time, Sam takes a lot of pride in his work.  He knows that what he does can save sawyers a lot of money in the long run, especially in these tough economic times.  In fact, Sam has been known to sharpen blades up to 8 times before they are replaced, though he's quick to explain that most people replace their blades after 2 to 4 sharpenings.

Sam doesn't just sharpen portable sawmill blades either.  He also sets them and flattens them.  Most of his tools are made by Cook's Saw and Sam loves each one because they are easy to use, efficient and good at what they do.  So, would you like to try sharpening your own blades like Sam does?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com and browse through the great selection of sharpening tools and tips.

Shopping For Portable Sawmills

Shopping for portable sawmills is no easy task.  There are a lot of models to pick from.  So, it can be tough to narrow down the options and find the one that suits your business best.  Luckily, there are some tips that can help.

First, think about your situation.  Are you working alone?  Do you have one or two employees?  Do you have a large company?  If you have a lot of employees or partners, you may want to look at larger portable sawmills.  If you are on your own, a smaller portable bandsaw mill might be best.

Time is also a factor.  Do you want to cut thousands of board feet per day every day, or do you only want to use it part-time?  Again large mills are built for high production.  Smaller mills are meant more for those who have a day job and just want to do a little lumber cutting on the side.  So, just by knowing that much, you can narrow your options down quite a bit.

Price is also a major factor.  Larger portable sawmills can cost double or triple what smaller models cost.  So, if your budget is more in the $10,000 range than in the $30,000+ range, you will most likely have to buy a smaller model.

Another major consideration is the reputation behind the portable sawmill.  Would you like to guarantee that your portable sawmill is built to last and comes with great customer support.  If so, you need to purchase one from a leader in the portable sawmill industry.  The folks at www.cookssaw.com have been supplying sawyers with sawmills and parts for years.  So, visit them to see the great portable sawmill models that they offer.

Three Portable Sawmill Blade Sharpening Steps

Portable sawmills are wonderful, but they need to be well-maintained.  In fact, if you want maximum efficiency from your portable sawmill, you need to get new blades on a regular basis, but how often is "a regular basis" anyway?  Well, if you sharpen your blades properly, it's not as often as you would think.

There are three steps involved in making sure that your portable sawmill blades are working at their best possible efficiency.  The first step is sharpening the blade itself.  You can buy a sharpener and do that on your own, or you can have it done professionally.

Step two is making sure that the blade is flat.  Some blades begin to curve or "crown" over time.  Unfortunately, any curvature of the blade can cause it to get out of the groove.  That can lead to lumber that hasn't been properly cut and it can also lead to slower cuts or cause your blade to break entirely a lot sooner than it otherwise might.

Step three is to make sure that the blade teeth are set properly.  As with the sharpening tools, you can get flattening or setting tools and do the setting and flattening yourself.  However, you can also send your blades to a full-service blade sharpener to have the work done.

Sharpening your portable sawmill blades can really increase the life of the blade and the productivity level of the mill.  Would you like to learn more about the tools involved in blade sharpening?  If so, go to www.cookssaw.com.

The Importance Of Sharpening Your Portable Sawmill Blades

As a portable sawmill user, you probably understand that your sawmill is only as good as its blades.  So, what do you do when your blades just aren't working as well as you'd like?  Even if you buy the best blades on the market already, how can you make them just a little bit better?  The answer is you can get sharpen them.

Some people opt to sharpen their own portable sawmill blades.  If you're going to do so, you'll need tools for sharpening, flattening and setting the blades.  Sharpening will do you no good at all, after all, unless the teeth are in alignment and the blade is flat.

On the other hand, there are a lot of people who feel completely overwhelmed by the blade sharpening process.  If you are one of these people, don't worry.  There is another option.

That other option is that you can get someone else to sharpen, flatten and set your portable sawmill blades for you.  Paying for the sharpening service is likely to be cheaper than buying new blades all the time.  In fact, well-sharpened blades can be used at least 3 or 4 times, usually, before they need replacement.

No matter how you choose to have your portable sawmill blades sharpened, you need to understand the importance of sharpening them.  A sharp blade can cut through lumber with the greatest of ease.  A dull, bent or broken blade will only cause you trouble.  So, would you like to learn more blade sharpening tips?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com to get started.

Portable Sawmill Uses

Portable sawmills have many different uses.  In fact, it would be easier to ask what they can't be used for than to ask what they can be used for.  Let's look at just a few things you could do with them.

First, you could cut your own lumber for small projects.  If you want to build a picnic table, deck or shed, a portable sawmill could definitely help you out.  You can get the exact pieces of lumber that you want every time you make a cut.  You won't have to spend forever trying to find the right pieces at a lumber supply store.  You also won't have to spend tons of money buying lumber for every project that you want to do.

Next, you could use a portable sawmill to convert unwanted logs around your property into good lumber.  You could then sell that lumber to friends and family members at a discount.  You could even donate it to charity, if you want to.  In either case, you could quickly clear a section of your property, if you need or want to.

Of course, you can also use a portable sawmill to start your own lumber business.  It's easy.  You can either cut lumber on your own property or you can bring the portable sawmill with you to other locations.  In fact, you can even expand your business to include multiple portable sawmills.

So, would you like to have the extra income that a portable sawmill can provide?  If so, you need to talk to the experts for advice.  The experts at www.cookssaw.com can recommend just the right portable sawmill for you, whether you want to be a part-time sawyer or turn lumber cutting into your full-time business.

How To Support And Maintain Your Portable Sawmill

As a new sawyer, you may not know this, but there are several things that you can do to increase your portable sawmill production.  In fact, learning to support and maintain your portable sawmill properly is key, if you want to make a profit as a sawyer.  Luckily, it's not that difficult to do, once you know how.

First of all, every good sawmill needs a good blade.  One of the best types of blades is the Cook's Super Sharp blade because it is thin, heavy duty and built to last.  Even so, though, you also will need to replace your saw blades on a regular basis, especially if you are using your portable sawmill non-stop all day long 5 to 7 days per week.  Even the best blades don't last forever.

Nevertheless, you can improve upon the life of your portable sawmill blades by keeping them flat, sharp and set properly.  So, the first thing you should do is invest in tools that will help you flatten, sharpen and set your saw blades.  Luckily, you can find a complete assortment of those tools at the Cook's Saw website.

Next, you need to make sure that your band saw is aligned properly.  You can great blades, such as the Cook's Super Sharp blades, and a great portable sawmill, but it won't do you any good unless that sawmill is set up correctly.  That means making sure that the band secures the saw head properly.  Would you like to learn some easy ways to do that?  If so, click here to visit Cook's and find out.

Understanding Your Portable Sawmill Business

There are several things that determine whether a portable sawmill business is successful or not.  One of those things is the sawmill itself, which a lot of people don't think about.  They just think they can buy the sawmill and use it forever with only the occasional blade change.

The real truth is that a portable sawmill is not unlike a car in the sense that both need routine maintenance in order to run properly.  If certain parts of the sawmill aren't level, for instance, the saw blade itself won't be level and it will slip out of the cuts, causing lumber to be cut improperly and blades to break.  That means a lot of wasted time.

Another of the things that will make or break a portable sawmill business is the type of blade that is used.  Some blades break after only 2 or 3 hours.  That leads to a lot of time and money wasted on blade replacement.  Also, some blades simply don't move as quickly as others.

Therefore, maximum portable sawmill efficiency requires that you perform regular maintenance on your machinery and that you find the best possible blade.  Cook's 2” Super Sharp blades are rapidly developing a reputation for being some of the best blades in the business.  They are thin, yet strong and resilient.  They can also cut at high speeds.

Do you want to learn more about your portable sawmill business and how to increase your profits?  If so, go to www.cookssaw.com for more information.

What To Consider When Buying A Portable Sawmill

If you're planning on buying a portable sawmill, there are certain things that you should look for.  Many sawyers are in the business because their families have been doing it for years.  Scott Irvin is one such example.  His dad was in the sawmilling business back in the 1990's.  So, when Scott followed suit, he already knew what to expect and what he wanted, at least to a degree.

For example, Scott Irvin knew that he wanted efficient, heavy duty and fully portable sawmills.  He also knew that he wanted the portable sawmills to be band saws, unlike the old circle saws that his father had used.  That's why he got himself a pair of Cook's Saw portable sawmills with thin kerf blades.

Scott also knew that he wanted his business to be versatile.  So, he needed portable sawmills that could cut almost any type of lumber in almost any way imaginable.  That's why he got two slightly different Cook's portable sawmills and why he looked for features like drag back and chain-type log turners.

Those are all things that Scott had some knowledge of.  He knew what seemed to work and what didn't because he had watched his dad for years.  However, what Scott didn't necessarily know is that customer support was also a vital part of buying a portable sawmill.  However, Scott was lucky because he bought his sawmills from Cook's Saw.

Comparing Portable Sawmills

If you are a sawyer already or you are interested in getting into the lumber business, you need to learn about portable sawmill designs and how to compare them.  After all, a portable sawmill can really help your business to expand quickly.

Until fairly recently, it was widely accepted that circular sawmills were the best choices.  They tended to be faster than bandsaws.  In recent years, however, technological advancements have created some very fast and accurate bandsaw mills.  In fact, Cook's Saw has been a leader in the portable bandsaw industry for several years.

When you are choosing a portable bandsaw mill for your business, there are a few things to think about.  For example, you need to look at the size of the bed.  Think about the logs that you will be cutting.  Make sure that they will comfortably fit on that portable sawmill bed.

Also, don't assume that size is the only thing that matters.  Weight and durability are also factors.  You need to make sure that the portable sawmill can comfortably support the weight of the logs.

Power is also a consideration.  Larger portable sawmills tend to have more speed and more power.  That makes them perfect if you are interested in cutting the most lumber in the shortest amount of time possible.  Larger portable sawmills also tend to have more convenient features to make the sawing process easier, such as hydraulic log lifters.

Is portability more a factor for you than production?  If so, you may be more interested in a small portable sawmill that you can take anywhere.  In any case, just visit www.cookssaw.com for options.  You'll find that they supply portable sawmills to meet almost any lumber cutting needs.

How To Expand Your Portable Sawmill Business

If you bought a manual portable sawmill a while ago, you might be about ready to expand to a bigger model.  If so, you may want to look for a larger portable sawmill to help you expand your business.

Most larger portable sawmills run on hydraulic power.  That means that they aren't as complicated to use.  In fact, many of them feature very easy controls and some even come with hydraulic log lifters.  Nevertheless, they can take more manpower to operate, since they are bigger.  So, if you plan to expand your lumber business, you may also want to hire more people.

One of the advantages of a larger portable sawmill, aside from the hydraulic power, is that it can handle larger logs.  There are a couple reasons for that.  The first reason is that a larger portable sawmill is going to have a larger and more sturdy bed.  The second reason is that the hydraulic power will allow larger laws to move through the sawmill more quickly and efficiently.  That means that you will be able to cut more lumber per hour.

In addition to the speed increase, a hydraulic mill will also give you a wider range of cutting capabilities.  You can cut lumber that is longer or thicker than that which you may be able to cut on a smaller mill.  That added flexibility will also allow you to be less particular about which trees you cut down or which lumber you use.

So, do you want to expand your portable sawmill business by investing in a hydraulic mill?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com.  The folks at Cook's can hook you up with the latest and greatest hydraulic mills.

Picking Your First Portable Sawmill

Picking your first portable sawmill is an exciting event.  After all, there are a lot of wonderful things that you can do with a portable sawmill, up to and including running your own full-time business as a sawyer.  However, it's not always easy to pick out the perfect sawmill.  So, here are some tips that may help.

Start by knowing what you will be cutting.  If you intend to cut lumber that comes from trees on your own property, go out and measure some of the trees.  Get an idea of how tall they are and how big around they are.  If you are dealing with relatively small trees, a small bandsaw mill will do.  If not, you may need to invest in a larger model.

Next, think about your personal goals.  Are you trying to cut lumber for a few small projects for yourself and neighbors?  Are you trying to go into business as a sawyer permanently?  If the former, you can get a small sawmill.  If the latter, you need a larger machine.

For speed, durability and longevity, you can't beat a fully hydraulic portable sawmill.  So, if you are concerned about production sawing (cutting X amount of board feet per hour) you really should get a hydraulic model.  The best are the ones that also come with a fully hydraulic log lifter.

Of course, you may need to start off with an inexpensive model at first, but you still have options.  If you want to compare prices on some of the best portable sawmills, just go to www.cookssaw.com.

Portable Sawmill Expenses

Many people get into lumber cutting with portable sawmills because it is an easy way to earn a secondary income, or even a primary one.  However, portable sawmills are not completely free, not by a long shot.  So, you should have some idea of the expenses involved before you buy one.

First, think about the initial cost of a portable sawmill.  A manual bandsaw mill might cost around $10,000 and a fully hydraulic bandsaw mill could cost several times that.  Some of them cost $30,000 or more.  That is certainly a large initial expense, but they do pay for themselves relatively quickly.

Next, you need to consider general maintenance costs.  For example, you will need to buy new blades frequently.  However, one of the great things about portable sawmill blades is that many of them can be sharpened multiple times before they need to be replaced.  The cheapest way to have your bandsaw blades sharpened is to do it yourself, but you will need to buy your own sharpener in order to do that.

Another thing to consider is repair work.  It is possible that something could go wrong and you may need to have your portable sawmill repaired at some point in time.  Luckily, many of them have warranties or guarantees of some kind.  The best way to avoid major headaches down the line is to buy your portable sawmill from a reputable dealer, such as Cook's Saw.

Are you interested in learning more about the expenses involved in starting your own portable sawmill business?  If so, visit www.cookssaw.com for informational articles, ideas and a full line of fabulous products, including portable bandsaw mills.