Milling wedges

[gobbypunk]

Hi guys ,so I have been thinking and I know it’s dangerous but when Chainsaw milling wedges are important so with a bandsaw mill why don’t we need them is it the narrow kerf would a wedge or two help in heavy timber 

[skc101fc]

Wedges all the time, no matter what the saw type. Especially for long lengths or heavy slabs. Having them in place allows you to back the bandsaw out of the cut, without popping it off the band wheels, if the grain or a knot suddenly forces the band down. Makes extracting a broken band a doddle when it happens. Also breaks that friction bond when trying to slide heavy slabs off the top. Gives you room to get a bar in the kerf to move the slab, or a lifting strap. Make your own superslim ones from hardwood, 5-6" long and only an inch thick at the blunt end. - And don't get too precious of them. They're an expendable aid .

[gobbypunk]

Hi I was kinda thinking that but I never see anybody use wedges with a bandmill ,so that was what got me thinking 

[skc101fc]

You see a lot of guys sweating and heaving at slabs thinking they're looking macho. Same guys years later have quit and their muscles and joints are fooked. It's a tough job but can be made easier.

[skc101fc]

With a bunch of these tiny wedges in a pouch on your belt, your slipping them by hand only - no hammer, as your travelling down the log. Simples and without even breaking your stride.

Of course if you have cranes/loaders/lifting equip then you aren't going to be busting your guts anyway . If ya working alone you gotta make it easier.

 

 

[trigger_andy]

I only use wedges when I have to back out of the cut. Otherwise I really find I dont need them. And with a buggered back Im far from macho. But then I just have a baby mill that has a 600mm Cant. Its more effort turning an Oak Log than it is sliding the slabs off in my opinion.