size bar for MS880?

[agg221]

Depends what you're trying to do. If you're running an 880 with a 42" roller-nose bar then you will get about 34" cut width. If it's a bit bigger, you can fit the 47" Duromatic bar and get about 42" cut width. If your butts are bigger than this then yes, being able to trim up the edges first will help, but you've got access to some serious trees if many of them are this size.

 

If you're thinking of edging up after milling, the mini-mill will help if you're making a lot of beams. Alternatively this can be done by rolling the log and re-setting with a set-square to check it's true. It's very fiddly this way though for anything more than occasional use, so the mini-mill would definitely speed it up.

 

If you're making more in the way of slabs/planks, and working near to electricity, a hand-held circular saw and a rail to run it alongside is much easier. I use an aluminium rail and fix it on with a couple of G-cramps. Once I've got everything with one true edge, I set the fence on the saw and rip to width. It's very quick and gives a clean, straight edge. A 9" saw will clear a 4" depth cut - I have a Makita one which has happily ripped down all my joists and rafters. I would recommend having a normal Skil type one as well though, with the 2.5" cut, as this is much lighter and easier to handle for planks.

 

Some people resaw with a bandsaw, but I never have much luck with the smaller domestic ones and I work on my own so I'd rather move the saw than the wood as it's lighter!

 

Alec

[Bob Slade]

I use a 60" GB, 50" cannon 36" duro. and if i remember to take one a 66" double ender for the 076's. i have got a couple of double ender mills i might be getting rid of soon, 2 x 4ft and a 3ft with bars. don't know when they will be up for sale but will post on arb trader.

[MikeTM150]

Well you've all said what i was thinking, probably get away with not needing it. And ulimately if i do need it in the future i can buy it, where as if i buy it and don't use it i'll be bit pissed off!!

 

Hoping to be able to use my browns saw bench to rip down the slabs and boards. Just depend on how heavy they are i guess, but with a telehandler i'm sure i can sort cummat out!

 

Many Thanks Again!