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Figuring out approx Bd Ft from Logs

3K views 18 replies 13 participants last post by  a1Jim 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have the opportunity to get a bunch of logs but I need to figure out how to estimate the board feet per log so I know about what the logs are worth before I pursue them. I have access to a home saw mill but the guy is also new to the saw mill arena and he doesn't know either eyt.
 
#4 ·
If you measure the diameter in inches at the butt and top, average them. OR Take the diameter in inches at breast height. Divide your diameter by 2 to get the radius. Multiply the radius x the radius x 3.14 = area of the circle x length in inches = volume in cubic inches divided by 144 = board feet in the tree. I'm sure there is some formula that allows for some waste, but I don't know it. That is the basic math that will get you close.
 
#11 · (Edited by Moderator)
I owned a hardwood sawmill in northern Wisconsin for 20 years. The Scribner Decimal C scale is the standard today. You measure on the small end under the bark. Also you must deduct for crook, sweep, and other defects. Here is a link for reference. If scaled and sawn correctly, you should relize at least 5-8% overun.

THEORY AND PRINCIPLES OF SCALING
 
#12 ·
TopamaxSurvivor-You have to remember that you will have to take slabs off the log to get a cant and that is firewood. Plus the saw kerf. So you will not get out of the log what the true volume is. I have used the Doyle Scale on some of my logs I have milled and I get about 8% over what the chart says I should get.

Henry
 
#18 ·
hello,

geez i got so busy measuring that i forgot to return here and look again, i want to thank everyone who helped me get this figured out, also think i am going to purchase a lumber smith portable bandmill..i have several hundred feet of old growth cedar tree on the property here and a friend in fla. is giving me a very large cedar tree,,about 24'' at base that came down last storm. guess i will be making a bunch of cedar boxes in about 3 months. i am going to try my hand at air drying.
 
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