What Should I Know About Turning Logs into Lumber?

I focus on getting wood that’s suitable for the projects I enjoy. Generally, I avoid branch wood since it can be unstable. For trunk wood, I check for rot and try to ensure the wood isn’t too dry to attract bugs. I've heard that removing the bark can help keep the bugs at bay, but I haven't tested that theory myself. I also recommend only bringing in logs that are 'green'—if they’re not, I often have to transport them to a kiln for treatment before I can store them. Plus, let’s be honest, size matters! Getting smaller logs makes them far easier to handle without gear like engine hoists.

When you're resawing logs, it's much easier if at least one side is flat. You might want to think about building a sled for your bandsaw to help stabilize the logs while cutting. Just a heads-up: it can take quite a while for the slabs to dry after milling—about a year for each inch of thickness. As for bugs, they typically hang out in the bark and sapwood, which you should strip away before bringing the logs into your shop to avoid an infestation. And be mindful that the interior can be a surprise—you won't fully know what you're working with until you cut it open!

Honestly, your bandsaw might struggle with logs since it’s not built for larger milling tasks. You’ll likely need a proper mill for that. While you could use your bandsaw for small pieces, anything larger is going to be challenging. Prepare yourself for some serious weight when it comes to logs—investing in a better vehicle or equipment might be necessary if you want to take this on seriously. I'd suggest looking into building a solar kiln for drying; it can be a helpful addition to your setup!