SPRING/SUMMER 2015
News
VOLUME 11, ISSUE 1
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
EMERGENCY AIR-LIFT OF
NORWOOD SAWMILLS
RELIEVES POST-TYPHOON
SUFFERING
Philippines Rebuilds with Norwood Mills
After Devastation of Typhoon Haiyan
MASTER YOUR
MASSIVE LOGS
Unlock the High-Dollar Value of Your
Oversize Logs Without Expensive Heavy
Equipment
CONQUERING PTSD WITH
SAWMILL THERAPY
Veteran Police Officer, Nurse & Paramedic,
Kevin Kesick, Recounts How His Norwood
Saved His Life
y
Februar
2015
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Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
NorwoodSawmills.com
ALL-NEW
NORWOOD
SAWMILL
MODEL
DELIVERS
INCREDIBLE
VALUE
WITH ZEROCOMPROMISE
Norwood’s latest bandmill is
testament to the fact that –
“Affordable” does not need to be
synonymous with “compromise”.
The all-new Norwood LumberMan
MN26 empowers hobbyists and doit-yourselfers to produce impressive
volumes of quality boards and beams
at negligible cost.
And, MN26 owners are not penalized
for choosing the entry-level model –
A full complement of productionboosting attachments are available
for their sawmills.
The first big benefit that makes the LumberMan MN26 so
appealing is that its beefy capacity comes at a relatively
pint-sized cost (only $4397 for a limited time). Equipped
with a 13hp (420cc) Briggs & Stratton engine, the
LumberMan MN26 handles logs up to 26” in diameter
(65cm) and cuts boards up to 17” wide (42.5cm).
The second big draw is how quick and easy the
LumberMan MN26 makes it for owners to mill sizeable
piles of high-value lumber every day. Norwood invests
heavily in research and development, focusing its efforts
on technology that cuts the time it takes to mill a log
into lumber. Norwood’s commitment to advancing
the frontiers of portable sawmill innovation is proven
Norwood LumberMan MN26 owner Michael Talbert.
by over 50 patents, more than the combined total of
all the other sawmill companies around the world,
put together. The LumberMan MN26 is engineered to
mill with faster cycle-times using patented Norwood
technology like auto-locking sawhead and available
optional auto-lube.
You can add capacity-boosting
attachments to your LumberMan MN26
at any time – trailer system, toe boards,
log loadings system, and more.
The third key feature that makes the Norwood MN26
an ideal partner for
hobbyists is its versatility.
Typically, sawmills in
such an affordable
price range are very
limited in capacity and
capability. In contrast,
the LumberMan MN26’s
generous 26-inch (65cm)
capacity is just the start.
From there, you can keep
building its functionality.
Norwood’s versatile modular attachment system means
owners do not get trapped with a sawmill that cannot
grow with their sawmilling needs. “The only regret
Norwood owners feel,” concludes Dale, “is that they
didn’t get a Norwood sawmill earlier.”
MEET NORWOOD’S NEW MASCOT
Lumber
“No two jobs are the
Members of Norwood’s sawmill development team at Norwood’s test center.
NorwoodSawmills.com
same,” explains Norwood Sawmills President, Ashlynne
Dale, “And once you get into sawmilling, you will
eventually find that you want to do more things with
your mill, like trailer it places, or compensate for log
taper, or speed up log loading and turning. With the
LumberMan MN26, you can add those attachments
anytime to do all those things, and more.”
“Jack”
Yes, sawmilling is profitable.
It’s productive. It makes good
sense for many practical
reasons…
But it is also addictively fun!
And, so, in that spirit, we are very
pleased to introduce you to “Jack”,
Norwood’s lumberjack mascot.
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
3
MILL YOUR TRULY
MASSIVE LOGS
—Dave Boyt
Norwood sawmills are uniquely adapted to mill a variety of
sizes and shapes of logs. Each has its own challenges. Unlike
some other sawmill manufacturers, Norwood’s claims about the
maximum diameter log the mills can handle are spot-on. I have
milled logs that have pushed the LumberPro HD36 – and me – to
the limit. Without heavy equipment, how do you get the really
big logs on your mill, line them up for the cut, clamp them down
and turn them?
The first step is preparation. Some logs are so big that
it is easier to move my mill to the log. The key is to
line up the log perfectly with the bunks and clamps
before loading it; once it is on the mill, adjusting the
position without a heavy-lift loader is difficult and timeconsuming. Position the large end of the log toward
the start of the cut; that way, you can do any necessary
trimming before you start milling. Before loading the
log, trim off any stubs that may cause problems and trim
off any flair – there is no sense fighting it if you don’t
have to. It is much easier to do this while the log is on
the ground, though you may have even more trimming
to do after you have loaded the log on the mill.
To put things in perspective, a 34”
diameter by 10-foot long black oak log
weighs over 3500 pounds – roughly the
same weight as the average car! You
need ramps and a winch that can safely
handle that kind of load.
ability to handle them (safely!) gives
you options to use a resource that is
often wasted, and to produce a valuable
product that is in high demand.
cable rolls it up with half the force it would otherwise
require. If the ramps are at a 30 degree angle, its
mechanical advantage is 2:1. In other words, you need
about 850 pounds of pulling force to load the log.
Rolling (Rotating) the Log
Once the log is on the deck, it is pretty much a matter of
“playing it where it lays”; you will not be able to turn it
by hand (unless you’ve got Paul Bunyon as your helper).
But you can roll it around its axis using the winch and
the included log hook.
Clip the log hook to the end of the winch cable, wrap the
cable over and around the log and hook it back to the
underside of the log with the log hook. Then simply reel
in the cable with the winch. The log hook will draw the
log around so that it rolls towards you (up against the
log rests). Keep the winch cable taut to help hold the
log securely against the rests while you dog it from the
other side.
Another useful technique for big logs (or any log, for that
matter), is backing the blade out of a cut to trim the log.
First, wait for the blade to come to a complete stop. If it
binds when you pull it back, do not force it. Use plastic
wedges (sold through logging supply companies and by
many chainsaw dealers) to open up the kerf so the blade
slides out freely.
Big logs offer an opportunity to get some beautiful
quarter sawn lumber – especially nice in oak and
sycamore. The ability to handle them (safely!) gives you
options to use a resource that is often wasted, and to
produce a valuable product that is in high demand. The
key is to think things through before you act. After all,
you are smarter than that log … right?
Cutting Up the Log
The first cut is the toughest. On the HD36, the maximum
head height is 30” so you’ll be pulling at least a 4” slab
which can weigh a couple of hundred pounds. Set this
one aside so that you can finish milling it later. Next,
take off several more slabs to get the weight and size
down to where the log is more manageable. Using the
same rolling technique, turn the log either 90 degrees
or 180 degrees, depending on the shape and weight
distribution of the log. After a few more cuts, you will
be ready to turn the log another 90 degrees and keep
whittling it down. If necessary, it is possible to take off
the movable blade guide and get another 6” of slabbing
width as long as the blade is sharp and you don’t push it
too hard.
Big logs offer an opportunity to get
some beautiful quarter sawn lumber –
especially nice in oak and sycamore. The
The best way to get a log onto your sawmill is to use a
log deck with a slight incline, and roll it onto the mill.
However, this generally is not an option for portable
mills and, whether you load the log via a deck or directly
onto the mill, you will still need to roll it up ramps.
Norwood Log Loading/Rolling/Ramp System
To put things in perspective, a 34” diameter by 10-foot
long black oak log weighs over 3500 pounds – roughly
the same weight as the average car! You need ramps and
a winch that can safely handle that kind of load.
Norwood offers an optional manual log loading/rolling
system for every single model of its bandmills. In all
cases, the system includes a pair of steel ramps, a winch
boom and winch. Together, they give operators ample
leverage to muscle massive logs onto the mill and, once
loaded, rotate them around their axis.
Loading the Log
The trick to loading logs with the winch and ramps is
to use a technique called “parbuckling”. This involves
running the cable over the top of the log, then around
and under the log back to the winch frame. This way the
4
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
Author’s Bio: Dave Boyt has a degree in Forest Management
from the University of Missouri. He is a Norwood sawmill
owner, manages his family tree farm in southwest Missouri
and is Managing Editor for Independent Sawmill & Woodlot
Management magazine.
LOG LOADING/ROLLING & RAMP PACKAGE
ss to
A must for milling operations without acce
d
Loa
. hydraulics, heavy-lift loaders or forklifts
large logs onto your Norwood and hold them
in place for quick-dogging. Pass the winch
cable over and around the log, connect
it to the log deck frame and operate
the winch – the log rolls up the
ramps onto the bed. Also makes
rolling (rotating) the log on the
bed a snap – speeds up squaring
cants. Package includes two
loading ramps, a 2-speed 1800
lb. winch, mast/boom &
receiver and log-rolling hook.
($897. + S&H)
NorwoodSawmills.com
BUILDING AN
OFF-GRID DREAM
—Mike & Wendy Tanner
Originally printed in Off-Grid Magazine (November 2014). Reproduced with permission.
© Copyright Off-Grid Magazine. All right reserved.
Mike and Wendy Tanner decided back in
2011 to make a life changing decision
and purchase a campground with the
dream of going off grid and living close
to nature in the backwoods of Ontario,
Canada. This is their off-grid story and
how they built their dream.
We are happy to talk about our experiences that we’ve
encountered on our adventure here in Northern Ontario.
Mike and I decided in 2011 that we would like to do
something different. We have always enjoyed the north,
along with hunting and fishing, so we decided to look for
a lodge to buy and run. We spent the winter of 2011 and
spring of 2012 looking at various lodges all over northern
Ontario. On Easter weekend, we came north to Cochrane,
about a 6 1/2 hour drive from our home in Washago,
and looked at “Flood’s Landing”, a campground on the
Frederick House River consisting of 130 acres and 6 small
cabins. We had to walk in from the road - a 1 km walk because the soft spring conditions of the driveway were
not favourable to drive on.
With all the timber available on our property, we
decided to purchase a sawmill and build everything,
as much as possible, ourselves. Our house in Washago
sold in September of that year and we started making
our plans to begin building the new rental cabins and
hopefully a home in 2013.
We purchased our Norwood sawmill in the summer of
2013, and we vow we will never be without a sawmill
ever again! It has been a huge learning experience
just in the process of milling the logs, from going out
and selecting and cutting them with a chainsaw, to
hauling them out with our little bulldozer that we
found for sale here in Cochrane and milling them.
Our property is under the Town of Cochrane limits,
therefore we need building permits for everything we
construct.
Our plan is to be open in the winter to rent the cabins
to snowmobilers so, to get the greatest warmth in our
cold winters, we decided that instead of going with
full log walls, we would do a post and beam interior
that extends out on the porch, and put up exterior
log siding. Our walls are studded with 2’ x 6’ boards,
insulated, and vapor-barriered. The ceiling rafters are
2’ x 8” and insulated and vapor-barriered as well. The
floor has 1” poplar boards with tar-paper laid down
underneath blue styrofoam insulation, then topped
with plywood that we will be covering with poplar off
our mill to finish. When the cabins were completed,
we finished all the wood and beams with Sikkens
Cetol Natural stain. We love the warm look this gives
the cabins, especially at night when the generator
lights them up.
We had the cabins wired for a generator to plug in
and, next year, we are exploring our options for going
with solar and wind power. The cost of water is too
high and we like the idea of being off the grid. Our
plan is to have 6 - 8 new cabins, a central washroom/
shower building and a store/office/dining room when
we are complete.
We have been putting our focus on the business,
so we haven’t started our home yet. This is the
beginning of the 3rd winter that we’ve been in our
little cozy cabin and, although last fall we had a
well drilled and a septic bed installed, the summer
bathroom is now decommissioned because the lines
will freeze, and we are back to the loyal outhouse for
the winter. All good things come to those that are
patient, and the experience wouldn’t be the same
if we had everything we left behind in the south.
We find we notice little things with all the changing
seasons, from animal tracks in the snow to northern
lights in the midnight sky and the sound of the
water rushing over the rapids as the snow melts in
the spring. And so much more. To anyone thinking
of doing something like this, all we can say is it is a
journey – there will be ups and downs, but it is all part
of the adventure and the learning never ends.
At this time, we have 3 cabins completed “NorthView”, “Poplar Ridge”, and “The Moose Shed”.
Our fourth is started and, in the spring of 2015, we
will begin our main building to have it completed
before fall, with water and a washroom that can be
used year round. Perhaps, if the building season
allows and things go well, we will begin our home,
too.
We were very intrigued to see this camp. The driveway into it was tree-lined and, after
1000 feet of going straight, it rounded a bend and overlooked the rapids in the river
below to our left. It continued to wind down a hill and around 2 more bends before we
came to the 6 little cabins and the campground beyond. We were sold on it just from
that walk in. It was exactly what we were looking for: private and semi-remote, road
accessible, lots of land, and the river. We were very excited to see what it held around
the bend. We saw great potential, made an offer, and before the end of the weekend
the seller had accepted. The journey began!
We moved in the middle of May 2012 and listed our house in Washago for sale.
We went from a beautiful hand-hewn log home, which we purchased in 2008 and
renovated with a brand new 32’ x 40’ garage that my husband built, to a 16’ x 24’ one
room cabin with a wood stove, a propane stove/oven, and a generator for power. It
had no indoor bathroom, no septic, no well, no hydro, and no phone. It was a change
of lifestyle as well as a change of address.
Costs To Build:
Our cabins are 16’ x 20’ with a 6’ porch, a one room
open concept with 2 double beds, a propane
stovetop, a propane furnace, table & chairs, and all
dishes and cooking utensils provided. They do not
contain washrooms, as we are building the central
washroom/shower facility for all to use.
The cost of the materials to build one cabin, including windows, door, steel roof,
insulation, propane furnace, stovetop, the cost for a licensed electrician to wire them
for a generator, and the propane contractor to run the propane lines, is approximately
$13,500.00 complete. If we had purchased all the lumber, it would have cost closer to
$22,000.00.
The first year we cleaned up the property, cut the grass, and met our seasonal campers
who were already tenants prior to us becoming the owners. We learned where the
fishing holes were, explored our property, photographing all the wildflowers and
critters we came across, and thought about where we would like to build our home
and how we would build it.
NorwoodSawmills.com
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
5
MOVING YOUR
SAW LOGS AND
FIREWOOD LOGS
—Dave Boyt
Keeping your sawmill well fed with logs can be more
of a challenge than milling the lumber. Whether your
log supply comes from your own woodlot, from other
property or even delivered to the mill, you need a
good way to move them around.
Big production mills have heavy loaders that can pick
up several logs at a time and set them on a live deck
to be moved onto the mill with just the push of a lever.
Smaller, one-person operations are another matter.
The volume typically just isn’t there to justify large
investments in log moving equipment, so it becomes
necessary to make use of the tools we have and use
finesse instead of brute force.
The equipment most commonly found around a private
landowner’s milling site is an ATV and/or tractor.
Qualities to Look for in an ATV Suitable for Log
Skidding
ATVs best suited to moving logs have four-wheel-drive,
an external oil cooler and a heavy-duty transmission. A
liquid-cooled engine is important, as it cools the engine
under full load at low speed. The rule of thumb for ATVs
is not to pull more than the weight of the machine.
Front weights and liquid-filled wheels do a lot to help
traction and stability. Tire chains provide even better
traction, protect the tires, and can help prevent the
machine from sliding sideways.
arch, a lot of stress is taken off of the ATV/tractor. There
is less torque required to pull the log, so the danger of
rollover is much less, and pulling the log puts less stress
on the machine.
chain and grapples sold separately.)
Satisfying your Norwood sawmill’s
appetite for logs is a whole lot
easier, faster and safer with the right
equipment and careful planning. The
cost is negligible – Norwood log skidders
are extremely good value, and careful
planning and good judgment are free!
My first experience with a log arch was moving a log that
my old Ford tractor couldn’t budge. I backed the arch
up to that log, hitched it up, and started to pull. My first
thought was, “Dang it, the grapple slipped off the log
again.” But when I looked back, the log was still in the
arch, following along with such a light load that it was
barely noticeable!
Since arches lift the front end of the log off the ground,
there is less chance of snagging on a root or stump, and
the back of the log barely scratches the soil. This has the
added side-benefit of doing a lot less damage to your
woodlot.
Norwood is the world’s leading supplier of smallscale log-skidding equipment for private landowners.
Norwood offers multiple log-skidding solutions to meet
varying operator needs:
Norwood Log-Skidding Arches & Winches
Most ATVs and small tractors lack the weight and power
for serious pulling; this is where the finesse comes in.
Norwood’s log-skidding arches and winches greatly
expand the usefulness of ATVs and small tractors for
moving logs. These attachments are steel frames that lift
the log off the ground, similar in design to propane tank
haulers. Since the weight of the log is supported by the
reverse the ATV. Handles logs up 18” (45cm) wide by
12-feet (3.6m) long and up to 760 lbs (350kg). Maximum
load of 350 lbs. (160kg) at the arch*. ($687. + S&H; Choker
SkidMate Log-Skidding Arch (for ATVs or tractors):
The self-loading design means that, as you gun the
ATV, the choked end of the log slides up the bar and is
hoisted high into the arch. This keeps your logs off the
ground, mud-free and easier to skid. To unload, simply
SkidLite Log-Skidding Winch (for ATVs or tractors):
Super-light and nimble, the SkidLite navigates easily
through tight spaces and confined areas. Choke the end
of the log, winch it up off the ground, chain it, then skid. Ideal for skidding logs up to 14” (35cm) wide and 12’
(3.6m) long*. ($487. + S&H; Choker chain and grapples sold
separately.)
Log-Hog (for tractors): The LogHog has no mechanical
components and therefore nothing to breakdown. Fits
Category 1 three-point tractor hitches. Simply lower,
choke, lift and skid*. ($265. + S&H; Choker chain and
grapples sold separately.)
NEW NORWOOD HYDRAULIC
LOG SKIDDING WINCH FOR
TRACTORS– A POWERFUL
LOG-HARVESTING SOLUTION
To meet the needs of active woodlot owners,
Norwood recently launched the all-new SkidWinch hydraulic skidding attachment for
tractors. The Skid-Winch puts versatility, power
and stability into the hands of woodsmen, but
at a fraction of the cost of traditional tractormounted log winches.
The Skid-Winch goes where you want, so you can
winch logs from deep in the forest right to the trail,
ready for choking and hang-up-free skidding out. *
1. Powered by your tractor’s rear hydraulic outputs,
the large heavy-duty hydraulic winch motor
generates loads of constant pulling power.
2. The heart of the Skid-Winch is the patented
capstan winch. A few wraps of the high-tensilestrength rope around the constant-speed capstan
give you full control over the winching operation
with simple application of tension on the “tail-end”
of the rope – Engage the Skid-Winch’s powerful
pulling power by tensioning the rope. Release to
instantly disengage.
3. Built-in receivers securely store chainsaw, cant hook
and choker chains for quick, convenient access.
4. Multi-function stabilizer legs dig firmly into the
ground during winching operations. Reconfigured,
they transform into forks that lift and move logs
and boards.
6
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
Terrain Considerations
5. Standard-equipped hitch receiver for convenient
towing operations while the Skid-Winch is attached
to the tractor.
($1475. + S&H; Choker chains, trailer hitch, log hook,
cant hook, trailer hitch and chainsaw sold separately.)
Skidding logs on slopes can be especially challenging
– and potentially very dangerous. Hitting a stump with
an uphill tire or a hole with a downhill tire can flip the
machine over. An equally big, or even bigger, danger is
that a log will twist and roll downhill, turning the ATV
or tractor over. Skidding logs downhill may seem like a
good idea, but a log can push an ATV or tractor beyond
its limits and cause the operator to lose control, or the
log can swing and roll your machine (and you) over. The
safest bet is to avoid slope-side operations. Winch the
log to safe ground.
Norwood is the world’s leading supplier
of small-scale log-skidding equipment
for private landowners.
Satisfying your Norwood sawmill’s appetite for logs
is a whole lot easier, faster and safer with the right
equipment and careful planning. The cost is negligible
– Norwood log skidders are extremely good value, and
careful planning and good judgment are free! These
small investments will pay big dividends quickly, and will
continue to do so for years to come.
* Load varies depending on terrain and ATV/tractor size and
type. Operation on sloped terrain or in wet conditions not
recommended. Front-mounted counterweights recommended.
Good judgment and experience required.
NorwoodSawmills.com
$4500 IN PRIZES AWARDED
TO WINNERS OF NORWOOD’S
2014 PHOTO AND VIDEO CHALLENGE
Each year, Norwood invites owners from around the globe to
submit photos and videos of their sawmilling operations and
the unique wood projects they have built using lumber and
timber milled with their portable sawmills.
Since the inaugural annual contest in 2008, Norwood has awarded over thirty
thousand dollars’ worth of prizes.
“As sawyers, we are people who live outdoors or, at least, live for the outdoors. We
are in tune with the seasons and their rhythms. For us at Norwood headquarters, a
particular highlight each year is our Annual Sawmill Photo & Video Challenge.
Seeing so many dedicated Norwood owners using their sawmills to build so
many remarkable projects charges our batteries.” says Norwood President,
Ashlynne Dale, “It energizes us to develop even more indispensable tools
Norwood owners can use to build their families’ futures.”
Project photos and videos are divided into five categories, with 1st, 2nd and 3rd
place prizes of $500, $300 and $100 in “Norwood Cash” merchandise credits
being awarded to each winner respectively:
zz
zz
zz
zz
zz
Norwood Portable Sawmill & Operation in Action - Videos
Furniture, Cabinets & Fine Woodworking Project Photos
Homes, Cabins & Outbuildings – Exterior Photos
Homes, Cabins & Outbuildings – Interior Photos
Norwood Sawmill & Operation in Action - Photos
“This year has proven to be the strongest turnout for
the Norwood Challenge; the largest-ever number of
entries were submitted by Norwood sawmill owners.”
continues Dale, “Interestingly, the photos and videos
also highlighted the growing trend for Norwood sawmill
owners to add production-boosting bandsaw mill
attachments to their machines.”
2014 Photo Challenge
NORWOOD SAWMILL &
OPERATION IN ACTION
Winners can use their prizes towards new sawmill or forestry equipment
orders placed direct from Norwood HQ.
All 2014 winning submissions, both photos and links to videos, can be found
on Norwood’s website at www.NorwoodSawmills.com/norwoods-2014photo-video-challenge-results.
Mike Tanner
Jonathan Flynn
Jeff Cummins
NorwoodSawmills.com
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
7
2014 Photo Challenge
FURNITURE, CABINETRY
& FINE WOODWORKING
2014 Photo Challenge
HOMES CABINS &
OUTBUILDINGS (INTERIOR)
Wayne Holcombe
Andre McBean
Cory Sadler
David Duffett
off
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l
Danie
8
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
Sal Paccione
NorwoodSawmills.com
2014 Photo Challenge
HOMES CABINS &
OUTBUILDINGS (EXTERIOR)
ENTER THE
CHALLENGE
in 2015!
As a Norwood sawmill owner,
you qualify to participate for your chance to win.
Take photos and videos of your operation and projects throughout
the year and submit your entries to [email protected]
with the subject line: “Photo / Video Challenge”.
Full contest rules and submission details can be found at
www.NorwoodSawmills.com/enter-challenge.
Andrew McCallum
Larry Wozney
Danna Baxley
NorwoodSawmills.com
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
9
NORWOOD SAWMILLS AROUND THE WORLD
Here is a small sampling of just a few of the many interesting photos sent in from Norwood owners around the world.
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WILL YOU BE THERE?
NORWOOD SAWMILLS USA
OPEN HOUSE & COOK-OUT
Save this Date: Saturday, June 13th, 2015
Norwood’s US Open-House and Cook-Out is an annual tradition, and a
favorite on our calendar.
No one walks away hungry! Burgers and hot dogs start sizzling by 11 in the morning. Of course, the
sawmills are even quicker off the mark, making sawdust, and lumber, when the doors open at 10.
The sense of community among Norwood owners is always the highlight. Where most people have
photos of their children, Norwood sawyers have photos of their sawmills or various projects built with
lumber that they have milled. Everyone has experience to share, and many from Team Norwood are
there to do demos, answer questions and offer advice on mill maintenance and operation.
Here are a few fun things we have learned at previous Open Houses …
„„
„„
„„
„„
„„
„„
„„
„„
„„
The Norwood tent will actually walk away if the wind conditions are just right.
It is hard to hold a conversation with three mills running at the same time.
If you ask five sawyers the same question, you will get eight different opinions.
Sawdust in coffee is better than creamer.
People love their Norwood sawmills!
Norwood sawmills are way ahead when it comes to quality and innovation.
Everyone has a story about operating their mill.
There are two kinds of sawyers—those who have sawn into a clamp and those who will.
Norwood sawyers are always willing to help each other out.
We hope that you can join us this year.
Saturday, June 13th, 2015
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Location:
Norwood Sawmills U.S.A. Inc.
252 Sonwil Drive, Buffalo, NY 14225
R.S.V.P. – It sure would help us plan how much food we need if you let us know if you can attend and
how many people you are bringing. If you can make it, could you please call Norwood Sawmills U.S.A.
warehouse at 716-681-1648 or email at [email protected]? Thanks!
10 Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
NorwoodSawmills.com
EQUIPMENT
Log Skidding and Miscellaneous Winches
MultiMate Log-Skidding Plate
M-SP
$488.00
Now $122.00
(75% OFF)
Log Hog 3-Point Hitch Log Skidder
Choker Chain - Probe only
Winch - 2500 lbs c/w Hause fairlead
Winch - 600 lbs c/w 15' strap
NEW/ Scratched
NEW
NEW
NEW
$265.00
$19.00
$258.00
$96.00
Now $185.50
Now $9.50
Now $103.20
Now $38.40
(30% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(60% OFF)
(60% OFF)
NEW
$486.00
Now $243.00
(50% OFF)
ENGE-20HPH
Engine - 8hp Briggs & Stratton
Engine - 20hp Honda V-Twin engine
NEW
$1,935.00 Now $967.50
(50% OFF)
ENGE-15HPK
Engine - 15hp Kohler engine
NEW
$1,497.00 Now $748.50
(50% OFF)
NEW
$175.00
Now $17.50
(90% OFF)
NEW
NEW
$185.00
$179.00
Now $92.50
Now $53.70
(50% OFF)
(70% OFF)
NEW
$83.00
Now $41.50
(50% OFF)
NEW
$795.00
Now $397.50
(50% OFF)
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
NEW
$1,390.00
$85.00
$65.00
$168.00
$180.00
$45.00
$175.00
$585.00
$292.50
$435.00
$145.00
$189.00
$249.00
Now $834.00
Now $42.50
Now $32.50
Now $84.00
Now $72.00
Now $18.00
Now $87.50
Now $292.50
Now $146.25
Now $217.50
Now $72.50
Now $94.50
Now $62.25
(40% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(60% OFF)
(60% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(75% OFF)
DEMO
DEMO
DEMO
DEMO
$457.00
$385.00
$77.00
$397.00
Now $228.50
Now $192.50
Now $38.50
Now $238.20
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(50% OFF)
(40% OFF)
DEMO
$567.00
Now $340.20
(40% OFF)
DEMO
$284.00
Now $170.40
(40% OFF)
NEW
$437.00
Now $131.10
(70% OFF)
NEW
$218.50
Now $65.55
(70% OFF)
DEMO
DEMO
$997.00
$89.00
Now $747.75
Now $66.75
(25% OFF)
(25% OFF)
DEMO
DEMO
$795.00
$487.00
Now $596.25
Now $365.25
(25% OFF)
(25% OFF)
M-LH
SKMT-SM014
MM00-WINCH
SKD-WIN-T600
Engines
ENGE-8HPBS
Norwood’s annual
“Garage Sale” is
a favorite among
Norwood owners.
Here is this year’s
list of great deals on
surplus, discontinued
and demonstration
equipment. Available
on a first-come, firstserved basis and only
while supplies last.
Avoid disappointment
– Order today! Call
1.800.567.0404.
GUIDE TO SAWMILL CODES
PR
OD
U
SAW
MIL
CTI
LN
AM
E
ON
DAT
ES
CODE
LumberMate MK3 & MK4
MK3/
MK4
1993 –
2000
LumberMate 2000
LM2K
2000 –
2010
LumberLite LL24
LL24
2004 –
2010
LumberMate Pro MX34
MX34
2010 –
2013
LumberLite ML26
ML26
2010 –
2013
LumberPro HD36
HD36
2013 –
Present
LumberMate LM29
LM29
2013 –
Present
LumberMan MN26
MN26
2014 –
Present
* Taxes, shipping and freight
insurance extra. Items purchased
from the garage sale are nonrefundable, non-returnable and
are not covered under warranty.
Prices are valid for a limited time
only, and items offered only while
supplies last. Allow extra time for
delivery depending on the location
of the item that you order. Assembly
required for most items, including
demo models.
NorwoodSawmills.com
PRICE/EACH*
NEW
(Winch & Choker Chain sold separately)
“GARAGE SALE”
CONDITION
(Muffler not included)
(Includes muffler)
ENGA-20CAK Cold-air kit (for 20hp Honda engine)
LumberLite LL24
LL24CC
Saw Carriage Cover (LL24)
LL24EXT
4-ft Bed Extension (LL24)
LumberMate MK4
LMM4-LRKIT Log rest (post) kit (MK4) (Set of 1)
Log Loader/Log Repositioning Package (LM2K)
41400
(Includes winch, ramps, boom and receiver)
LumberMate 2000
41150
Trailer Package (LM2K)
LM2K-079CR Vertical spreader (LM2K) - Chrome
LM2K-00079 Vertical spreader (LM2K)
LM2K-CBKIT Cross Bunk Kit (LM2K) (Set of 1)
41170
Levelling Feet (LM2K) (Set of 8)
41170-14
Levelling Feet (LM2K) (Set of 2)
LM2K-SSBCS Stainless Steel Bunk Cap Set (LM2K) (Set of 5)
41285
Toe Board Package (LM2K) (Set of 2)
41285-1-2 Toe Board Package (LM2K) (Set of 1)
41360
Support Legs (LM2K) (Set of 6)
41360-13
Support Legs (LM2K) (Set of 2)
LM2K-RESTKIT Log Rest Kit (LM2K) (Set of 1)
LM2K-00019 Counter-balance spring (LM2K) Complete assembly
LumberPro HD36 & LumberMate Pro MX34
LM34-HD-P2 Hydraulic Pump System (Manual) (HD36/MX34)
LM34-41170 Leveling Stands (HD36/MX34) (Set of 10)
LM34-41170-14 Leveling Stands (HD36/MX34) (Set of 2)
41291
Log Rest Actuators (HD36/MX34) (Set of 2)
RDS-BOX
Rapid Dogging & Rolling System
(41295)
(HD36/LM29/MX34/ML26/MN26) (Set of 2)
Dogging & Rolling System
RDS-BOX-12 Rapid
(HD36/LM29/MX34/ML26/MN26) (Set of 1)
LumberMate LM29, LumberMan MN26 & LumberLite ML26
ML26-41285 Toe Board Package (LM29/ML26/MN26) (Set of 2)
(Light-duty ratchet-style manual system for small to mid-sized logs)
Board Package (LM29/ML26/MN26) (Set of 1)
ML26-41285-12 Toe
(Light-duty ratchet-style manual system for small to mid-sized logs)
PortaMill PM14
PM01
PortaMill PM14 - Chainsaw Sawmill
PM02
PortaMill Auxiliary Chain & Bar Oiler Kit
Blade Maintenance Equipment
41180
Norwood Blade Sharpener
41190
Norwood Tooth Setter
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
11
RELIEF COMES
TO TYPHOON
VICTIMS IN THE
PHILIPPINES
THANKS TO
NORWOOD
SAWMILLS
Typhoon Haiyan, known in the Philippines as Typhoon
Yolanda, was one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever
recorded, devastating portions of Southeast Asia,
particularly the Philippines, in early-November 2013.
It was the deadliest Philippine typhoon recorded in
modern history, killing at least 6,300 people in that
country alone. Haiyan is also the strongest storm
recorded at landfall, and the strongest typhoon ever
recorded in terms of one-minute sustained wind speed.
It was the deadliest Philippine
typhoon recorded in modern history,
killing at least 6,300 people in that
country alone.
and they needed them fast. In the face of the looming
Christmas break and factory shut-down, dedicated
Norwood staff worked long hours late into the night
to prepare a plane-load of sawmills for emergency
air-lift direct to Manila. The Norwood sawmills landed
in Manila a mere three days’ later where they were
organized at a staging center and then sent onwards to
the hardest-hit regions.
That was just the beginning. Hundreds, even thousands,
more families took delivery of free boards and beams to
help them frame new homes.
151 families, victims of Typhoon Yolanda, in the
hinterland village of Hugpa, were the very first recipients
of free coco lumber milled on one of the Norwood
sawmills shipped under the UNDP’s relief program. An
initial delivery of over 1,000 pieces of lumber – 2” x 4”
x 12’ and 4” x 4” x 12’ coco, gave a rapid and welcome
solution to their desperate shelter needs.
Within days of the devastating storm, the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP) approached Norwood
Sawmills to help – they needed portable bandmills,
Dedicated Norwood staff worked long
hours late into the night to prepare a
plane-load of sawmills for emergency
air-lift.
The UNDP continues to process at least 33 million
fallen coconut trees in the Visayas region alone with six
Norwood sawmills strategically installed in that area.
Other Norwood sawmills are operating elsewhere in
other affected areas in the Philippines. World Vision, a
partner in the shelter cluster, has taken charge of the
distribution of the lumber.
Of the total processed lumber, UNDP gets 60 percent
that it shares with the Philippine Coconut Authority,
while AFFIRE, a cooperative that is handling the
processing, gets 40 percent.
Philippine citizens have come together to help one
another rebuild their communities. We are proud that
Norwood sawmills are playing such an important role in
their efforts. We are also extremely proud of Norwood’s
dedicated staff who were so instrumental in getting so
many sawmills into the hands of the UNDP so quickly,
particularly over the holiday period.
NEW FOR 2015!
Norwood is proud to continue offering
Goldline Premium blades.
With Norwood’s new Sabretooth line of
blades, you have one more option
to meet your sawmilling needs.
Conveniently available in
flat-packed boxes of 5 or 10.
Premium high-carbon U.S. steel
Precision-ground tooth profile
Tight-tolerance balanced set
State-of-the-art tooth hardening
* Taxes, where applicable, not included. S&H extra.
12 Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
NorwoodSawmills.com
QUICK TIPS TO
GROW YOUR
CUSTOM-MILLING
BUSINESS
—Dave Boyt
Mobile sawmilling is a great way to add flexibility to
your sawmill business. Many customers don’t have any
way to bring their logs to you. And, on large jobs that
would require several trips, it just makes more sense to
take the mill to the logs.
Norwood sawmills are quick and easy to set up and take
down, and have weight and balance that make them
easy to tow and, with a bit of practice, easy to maneuver
into position. Portable milling jobs range from working
out in a cow pasture (watch your step), to setting up
in a driveway right in the middle of town. The key is
to be flexible, and expect each job to present its own
challenges.
You will need to be as self-sufficient as possible.
Forgetting even such a simple thing as a key can be a
major setback. With a little ingenuity, it is possible to
“hot wire” the engine, but leaving a cant hook or extra
band saw blades back at the house can mean a 50 mile
trip home … and a lost morning. Forgetting lunch may
mean finishing up the day on an empty stomach. Make a
check list – it will pay dividends.
You’ll get requests for 2x8 boards out of 6” diameter
poles, clear walnut boards from post oak logs covered
with knots, and solid lumber from half-rotted logs. And
there are those who insist that their logs are free of
metal until you point out a six-inch strand of barbed wire
hanging out of a log.
What to charge, and whether to charge by the board
foot or by the hour, is a big issue, especially at first.
My philosophy is simple: charge based on your cost,
plus enough to make the job worthwhile. That means
charging by the hour, plus mileage, a set-up fee and
reimbursement for any blades damaged by embedded
metal in the logs. All this needs to be agreed to,
It is a good idea to visit a customer before bringing the
mill out. That gives you a chance to look at the logs,
scout out a good place to set up the mill, and find out
what the customer expects. Phone conversations can
be misleading. I have had customers claim 24” diameter
logs, only to find that they have measured around the
log (circumference), and the log is only 8” diameter.
Other concerns are having a reasonably level place, and
logs all decked up and ready to mill. If I have to chain
logs to my truck and drag them to the mill, I charge
the same hourly rate as for milling—but, of course the
customer needs to know that ahead of time.
You know sawmilling. Your customer doesn’t. It is easy
to forget that he/she may have unrealistic expectations.
Equipment Checklist:
;;Key
;;Extra blades
;;Toolbox
;;Gas & oil
;;Cant hook
;;Winch
;;Loading ramps
;;Clamps and log stops
;;Level
;;Tape measure
;;Wedges
;;Hatchet or small axe
;;Chain saw (with gas, oil, & tools)
;;Lunch
;;Cell phone
;;Paperwork (contract)
;;Safety gear (hearing protection, steel toe
preferably in writing, before you show up with your
sawmill. If a customer is in agreement, then the service
is worthwhile to him.
Anything extra you can do for the customer will make
it more likely he will refer you to his friends and family.
For example, you should find out how the customer
plans to dry the lumber. You’ll probably get a surprised
look and a response of, “I haven’t thought about that …
what do you recommend?” Be prepared to have some
specific suggestions. This will likely affect your cutting.
You may need to cut blocking and stickers out of the
lower quality logs. I have even had some customers
buy landscape timbers for blocking and 1x4s to cut into
stickers because they don’t want to sacrifice any of their
valuable lumber.
Finally, things come up. The fuel pump can go out on
your truck, family issues arise, or weather can put you
behind schedule. If you have to postpone a job, let the
customer know as soon as possible.
Taking your sawmill business to the next level and
offering mobile milling services may uncover profitable
niche markets that generate good, consistent income.
And, towing your sawmill is a lot of fun … you will find
people admiring your sawmill and wanting to talk to you
about it at every gas station!
Sawmill Towing Checklist:
;;Correct ball on towing vehicle
;;Carriage locked in place
;;All jacks fully retracted
;;Safety chain connected
;;Tongue secured in towing position
;;Lights working properly
;;Tires inflated
;;Log stops, clamps and other “loose” items
removed or secured
;;Equipment (log ramps, winch, extra blades)
removed or secured
boots, first aid kit)
5
1
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2
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3
1
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SATU
:
SAVE THIS DATE
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NorwoodSawmills.com
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
13
photo © Lisa Hubbard Photography
EMERGENCY SERVICES,
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS
AND MY NORWOOD SAWMILL
The biggest surprise has been meeting amazing, downto-earth people who would help me transition into that
civilian world – people that I could never meet as a cop.
Prejudices against cops are deeply ingrained; I cannot
believe how much better I have been treated by the
average person since I moved from emergency services
to being a sawyer. I have Norwood to thank for opening
my eyes and inviting those wonderful people into my
life.
I started in emergency services in 1979 as a volunteer
fire fighter. Two years later, I became an EMT and
started working in a hospital emergency department.
The official title of the job was “Orderly”, but really I did
everything: worked in the morgue, assisted in autopsies,
shaved male patients and gave enemas. When people
tell me, “We have a crappy job for you,” I tell them I have
literally had the crappiest of crappy jobs, but every
person I’ve met has taught me something.
I looked around at all the portable mill companies, did
tons of research and ended up talking to an amazing
salesperson at Norwood Sawmills named Frank.
—Kevin Kesick
In 1983, I got my LPN. In 1985, I graduated nursing
school as an RN and moved to a medical surgical unit,
ICU, CCU and ultimately became an ER nurse. I
obtained my paramedic license and went to flight
nurse school. I ended up flying with the NYSP, US Army,
US Air Force, Maryland State Police and did missions in
New Orleans after the hurricanes. In 1988, I became a small city police officer and
served on the SWAT team (a position I would repeat
over and over throughout my long career). I would
eventually work with many different state SWAT teams,
the Port Authority Special Services Unit, the NYPD
Emergency Services Unit, military Special Forces as well
as the elite FBI hostage rescue team.
In 1990, I became a New York State Trooper and, contrary
to what people might predict, I continued to work part
time as a nurse and paramedic throughout my entire
police career. I worked in the ER, as a flight nurse and
also as a paramedic from 1988 until 2010. I would
literally work a shift as a cop, undress, redress in scrubs
and go to the ER and work another 8 to 12 hours as a
nurse. This went on for over 30 years. I actually arrested
people in the morning and would treat them later in the
evening as a nurse … Very confusing for the patient, but
also for me too.
I worked every holiday from 1979 until I retired in 2012. I
was at the Trade Center disaster and at the crash of TWA
Flight 800. I have worked enough traumatic incidents for
a whole battalion of nurses, let alone one.
14 Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
To say I suffered form PTSD is an
understatement. It was confirmed
through many doctors and a
wonderful counselor, who, along with
my horse and my Norwood portable saw
mill, have saved my life.
After 26 years as a cop and more injuries, surgeries
and hospital stays than I can remember, I was
medically retired in January of 2012. I could no longer
lift patients or be a cop. Not only that, I have a hard
time being around people and dealing with people. The
civilian world had become foreign and scary to me. I
tell people all the time, “No one gets out of emergency
services without scars, both external and internal”.
To say I suffered from PTSD is an understatement.
It was confirmed through many doctors and a
wonderful counselor, who, along with my horse and my
Norwood portable saw mill, have saved my life.
You may be asking yourself, “What does this nurse/cop/
paramedic have to do with a sawmill? How can a saw
mill save a life?”
Well, to treat PTSD and deal with it, you need to
find something that is fun and helps you heal
– something that helps you transition from the
paramilitary/military world to the civilian world … Not
an easy feat. The U.S. loses 22 soldiers a day to PTSD
and the inability to make that transition to civilian life.
Most of these soldiers spend 4 to 8 years serving. I did
a combined service time of over 80 years. Cop suicide,
divorce, drug use and alcoholism is not researched
after retirement. Once you retire, you are pretty much
kicked to the curb.
I have always loved wood and have burned wood in
wood stoves, fireplaces and even sold cord wood. I heat
my house exclusively with wood and have for many
years. I thought a saw mill would be a great way to
spend time outdoors and use my left brain. It has been
all that and more. Sales people, in my experience, come with a bad
reputation. Frank was a breath of fresh air. He not only
educated me, but he made me feel like I was the only
person he was dealing with. I must have spoken to him
a dozen times. He never ever made me feel like I did not
matter. Frank treated me better than most of my bosses
ever did. This was such a change from my career. Even though I
assisted in saving countless lives, any praise from state
police and nursing bosses amounted to nothing more
than platitudes, not real kindness or appreciation. Also,
no one ever calls 911 because things are going well;
people call because they are having one of the worst
days of their lives. This is a common theme in the
emergency services industry and contributes to PTSD,
alcoholism, drug abuse, suicide, divorce and untold
heartache. Norwood was an amazing education and reintroduction into the civilian world. I knew I had picked
the right company.
Norwood was an amazing education and
re-introduction into the civilian world. I
knew I had picked the right company.
I picked the Norwood HD36 partly because of my
injuries; after 33 years as a cop and nurse, I can no longer
lift or move well. I learned that, not only does Norwood
Sawmills make a fully hydraulic version that virtually
runs itself, you can start out with a model without all the
bells and whistles and upgrade at any point. This was an
amazing selling point which no other company offered. I
bought my mill and, since I have no big indoor space to
assemble it in, I had the wonderful people in Norwood’s
Buffalo warehouse put it together.
continues on page 15 
NorwoodSawmills.com
Emergency Services,Post-Traumatic Stress... continues from page 15
Another amazing surprise on my journey into the
civilian world was the trip to Buffalo to pick up the
mill. There I met two brothers, long-time employees
at Norwood’s U.S. factory warehouse; I wish I could
remember their names. They were the nicest people and
the most considerate workers I have dealt with. Once
again, dealing with a Norwood employee was like being
invited into a family and being treated like you just came
in from a long trip. These amazing brothers helped
me set up the mill for travel, added last minute wiring
for lights, and got me on my way. It was an eight hour
drive home. They even gave me their private cell phone
number in case I had a problem. No one does this! Not
in the sales business. On the way home, the battery
cover flew off my mill. I called the one brother who ran
the shop and he ordered a new cover and had it at my
house almost before I got home. If anyone thinks he has
a better service story than that, I challenge you to beat
it.
These acts of kindness and generosity gave me a feeling
of being invited into the civilian world and let me know
that nice people do exist. The sawmill was teaching me
that. My lessons were far from over.
Upon arriving home, setting up my mill on the stone
landing I had built was easy. I had opted for the
tow package and found it was a great buy. It didn’t
take me long to call Frank and order an extra four
foot extension and more blades. Frank hadn’t forgotten
me and I got the same treatment I had received before,
except now he asked how it was going and how I
liked the mill. He truly cared, was genuinely interested
and wanted feedback. This is highly unusual. Once
a sales person makes a sale and the check is cashed,
you’re usually forgotten.
This amazing magnetic attraction of wonderful, kind
people continued happening. Since I set up my mill near
the road for easy log truck access, it is very visible. I own
just over 7 acres, and my house is 100 meters up a steep
hill. The mill is all alone and the orange stands out.
Although I live in a very rural area near Woodstock, NY, I
still had people driving past and slowing down to watch
me work and see the mill run.
A fantastic thing happened: I opened my mailbox
and found a note from someone asking if I could
cut hemlock for a horse barn. People started stopping by
asking me to cut wood for their fences, bandstands and
other projects. Most recently I was asked to make side
boards for dump trucks. I have not done any advertising
and yet people came … and they still come. The people I
have met are from all walks of life: judges, loggers,
artists, business owners. They are always nice and so
grateful for the wood. Your Norwood sawmill is a PTSD service tool.
If it was a dog, it would have a vest saying,
“Service Mill. I’m working.
Please don’t pet me”.
I mill for fun but, if I wanted to run a business, I could do
it without trying. I have gone to farmers markets and,
when artisans there find out I have a sawmill, they ask
me if I will cut for them. It happens so much I am taken
aback by the amount of opportunity … All because of
an orange sawmill.
I have discovered this peaceful left brain activity and
created beautiful wood products and, most important
of all, I have met nice people who have helped
me transition to the civilian life.
So, your Norwood sawmill is a PTSD service tool. If it
was a dog, it would have a vest saying, “Service Mill. I’m
working. Please don’t pet me”.
Tpr. Kevin Kesick RN EMT-P, Flight nurse
New York State Police, retired Call us TOLL-FREE at 1.800.567.0404
From anywhere in the U.S.A. or Canada
Monday to Friday between 8:30a.m. – 4:30 p.m. EST.
Feel free to visit our website any time at
www.NorwoodSawmills.com
Or e-mail us at [email protected]
U.S.A.
Factory Warehouse
Norwood Sawmills U.S.A. Inc.
252 Sonwil Drive
Buffalo, NY 14225
800.567.0404
Canada
Factory Warehouse
Norwood Industries Inc.
1660 Highway 11 North
Kilworthy, ON P0E 1G0
800.567.0404
Africa
Distribution Facility
Norwood Sawmills Africa Inc. c/o Austro
1125 Leader Avenue,
Stormill EXT 4,
Roodepoort, Gauteng
P.O. Box 1914, Florida, 1710
South Africa
NorwoodSawmills.com
[email protected]
The trade-names Norwood®, LumberPro®, LumberMate®, LumberMan®, LumberLite®, PortaMill®
and SabreTooth® are registered trade-marks owned by Norwood Industries Inc. Industrial
designs and critical elements of Norwood sawmills and multi-purpose load-bearing apparatus
for ATVs are protected by registered patents and pending patents in multiple jurisdictions.
Disclaimer: Specifications, designs, descriptions, illustrative material and prices in our literature,
website and price list are as accurate as known at the time of publication, but are subject to
change without notice. Prices do not include taxes where applicable. S & H extra. Illustrations
may include optional equipment and accessories and may not include all standard equipment.
Our literature, website and price list have been compiled for worldwide circulation; while
general information, pictures and descriptions are provided, some illustrations and text may
include product features, options and accessories not available in all regions.
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
15
grain pattern is also the most time consuming. While
there are some variations on this, it basically involves
cutting the log into quarters, and milling each quarter
separately. After each cut, the quarter gets rotated 90
degree to keep as much quarter pattern as possible. As
the cuts progress, the grain transitions to rift sawn and
the pieces get smaller, until the wood is too small to cut.
Flat (or plain) sawing simply involves squaring the log
into a cant and sawing straight down without worrying
about the pattern. It produces a flat grain pattern on the
boards further away from the center of the log, but the
closer to the center, the boards will have a quarter grain
on the edges, transitioning to rift grain, and flat grain
near the center. The very center boards will have quarter
grain pattern.
QUARTER,
RIFT & PLAIN
DEMYSTIFIED
—Dave Boyt
Rift sawing is an old way of milling quarter grain lumber
and requires specialized equipment. The name for
this pattern comes from “rive”, meaning “to split”. The
rift sawing pattern actually produces all quarter grain
lumber, but wastes a lot of wood. It is not a practical (or
even possible?) on a band saw mill.
Quarter-sawing is a genetic term for any sawing pattern
that produces a large percentage of quarter grain
lumber. The technique that yields the most quarter
The “Norwood Connect” online forum* is a great place
to get information about operating your band sawmill.
Most of the postings are specific to Norwood mills, but
many of them apply to any sawmill.
Recently, there was quite a discussion on quarter-sawing
— how to do it, and what it is. A lot of the confusion
is that quarter-sawing refers to the process, while
quarter-sawn grain refers to the end product. If that isn’t
confusing enough, just add “rift sawing” (process) and
“rift grain” (product), and “plain sawing” (or “flat sawing”)
(process) and “plain” or “flat” grain (product) to the mix.
This is all important to you, as a sawyer, because you will
likely have customers ask for quarter-sawn lumber, often
with no idea what it is or why they want it.
Grain Patterns
To clear this up, let’s work backwards from the end
product.
Quarter-sawn grain (also called “vertical grain”) has
growth rings perpendicular to the surface of the board.
Any angle from 75 to 90 degrees is considered quartersawn. Quarter grain lumber is more stable than flatgrain lumber, especially in regards to cupping as it dries.
If working with kiln-dry lumber, however, this is usually
not an issue. Some woods, such as oak and sycamore
have spectacular quarter grain patterns due to the
large rays in the wood. And some special uses, such as
instrument soundboards have better acoustics when
built from quarter grain lumber.
Rift grain has growth rings at 45 to 75 degrees to the
surface of the wood. It may show some of the ray flecks,
but not to the extent quarter-sawing does. Rift grain is
useful for square table legs because it shows a consistent
grain pattern on all four sides.
Flat grain has growth rings parallel to 45 degrees to the
surface of the wood. It is very attractive in many species
such as maple, cherry, and walnut. It does, however,
have the most tendency to cup and warp. This is the
most common grain pattern in lumber.
Sawing Patterns
This brings us to sawing patterns and the source of
much confusion.
PLAIN-SAWN BOARDS
So there you have it. Rift sawing produces all quarter
grain boards. Quarter sawing produces mostly quarter
grain boards, but also some rift grain. Flat (or plain)
sawing produces flat, rift, and quarter grain patterns—
sometimes all three in the same board! No wonder
people find sawmill jargon so confusing!
QUARTER-SAWN BOARDS
* Membership in “Norwood Connect” is free. You are
welcome to join or just visit:
www.NorwoodSawmills.com/forum .
Keep up with Your
Norwood
Neighbors
Join the Norwood Community Online
Since the 2002 launch of our Norwood Connect online sawmilling community, membership has grown
to over 5000 members. Not surprisingly, the most popular forum category is “Norwood Sawmills &
Equipment”.
Here are some topics that members have been discussing in the Norwood Connect forums:
;; Quarter-sawing oak
;; Well, I did it!
;; Milling frozen logs
;; What options are important when buying a sawmill?
Don’t miss out on the interaction. Join
Norwood Connect for insightful exchanges
and support from other members.
Membership in Norwood Connect is free and,
as a Norwood Connect member, your identity
is never disclosed to other Connect members.
Simply log into NorwoodSawmills.com and
select the “Norwood Connect” tab for details
on how to join.
RIFT SAWN BOARDS
16 Volume 11, Issue 1 - Spring/Summer 2015
NorwoodSawmills.com