Second run..

[smokinj]

Couple of pics of the next log how should I start this one? (Its the first log in the pic.)

 

[outdoorlivin247]

 

[BobL]

I generally mill most logs to maximize any final board widths so it is a balance between cross sectional shape, existing cracks and bow. With so many coincidental branch unions on that log you may find that that is a weak point on most of those boards. I guess you won't know till you cut them

 

[smokinj]

I generally mill most logs to maximize any final board widths so it is a balance between cross sectional shape, existing cracks and bow. With so many coincidental branch unions on that log you may find that that is a weak point on most of those boards. I guess you won't know till you cut them

I was thing of cutting the branch area out but cutting through it could be somtheng there if dont I can alway cut it out after milling. I can edge down the longer limb far right on the first pic?

 

[huskyhank]

I'd let the middle part with the branches be firewood and mill the ends into lumber if I really wanted it. If it was a really big log I'd cut the forks but its not a big log.

My general rule is that if I can't see something nice coming out of a log I don't bother milling it. I move on to the next one that looks good. Its the same work to cut a good log as a bad log or maybe more work to cut a bad one.

 

[smokinj]

I'd let the middle part with the branches be firewood and mill the ends into lumber if I really wanted it. If it was a really big log I'd cut the forks but its not a big log.

My general rule is that if I can't see something nice coming out of a log I don't bother milling it. I move on to the next one that looks good. Its the same work to cut a good log as a bad log or maybe more work to cut a bad one.

Its walnut or I would have made firewood already I think your right about cutting it out and do the ends around here right now its going for 5-6 bucks a board ft so if I can get something out of it, better than nothing.

 

[betterbuilt]

I'd cut it a little thicker and leave it like it is. I find the most interesting grain is in areas with branches and crotches. If you have to it cut I'd cut it above the branches about 6 to 10 inches. Its your choice. I sell lots of wood similar to what you have there. Some people like character and some don't but you can't go back once you cut it off.

 

[smokinj]

I'd cut it a little thicker and leave it like it is. I find the most interesting grain is in areas with branches and crotches. If you have to it cut I'd cut it above the branches about 6 to 10 inches. Its your choice. I sell lots of wood similar to what you have there. Some people like character and some don't but you can't go back once you cut it off.

I think your right.... I am Just going to take it slow and see whats there....If nothing else it will give me more trigger time.

 

[betterbuilt]

I bet you'll be surprised whats in there. Walnut has a way of surprising me everytime.


http://www.arboristsite.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=141945&stc=1&d=1277498931

 

[smokinj]

I bet you'll be surprised whats in there. Walnut has a way of surprising me everytime.


http://www.arboristsite.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=141945&stc=1&d=1277498931

Thats Awesome! I only have about 1500bf left before I have to start cutting again and I would like to wait till fall...Just going to slow way down and produce the best boards I can...Walnut the big money boards...lol

 

[betterbuilt]

It only worth something if you can sell it. I find that everyone wants something I don't have. I never cut with the intention of selling it. That only leads to disappointment. I cut things for my own use and if I make a sale every once and a while I'm happy.

 

[smokinj]

It only worth something if you can sell it. I find that everyone wants something I don't have. I never cut with the intention of selling it. That only leads to disappointment. I cut things for my own use and if I make a sale every once and a while I'm happy.

It doesnt matter if it gets sold or not I like to think of things in what I save or what its worth. A way of keeping score if you will...My father will take all the walnut I can get...He's been custom cabinet building for over 50 years makes it nice for me and one reason I am in this gig.

 

[betterbuilt]

Well that solves the question of what sizes to cut. Keep the pictures coming.

 

[smokinj]

Well that solves the question of what sizes to cut. Keep the pictures coming.

Yep he wants 1-1/4 to plan down to an inch. and walnut only

 

[Scorpion]

I'm a total newb in the realm of milling logs into usable wood.

What is the white stuff you used on the walnut logs? I take it that is to seal the wood to prevent cracking/splits?

Thanks

 

[smokinj]

I'm a total newb in the realm of milling logs into usable wood.

What is the white stuff you used on the walnut logs? I take it that is to seal the wood to prevent cracking/splits?

Thanks

Yes to reduce checking.