Best Chainsaws for Alaskan Mill: Detailed Review and Buyer’s Guide

If you’re considering an Alaskan mill for milling lumber, selecting the right chainsaw is crucial.

Alaskan mills require a powerful chainsaw capable of handling prolonged use and large pieces of timber, and with many options available, finding the best chainsaw for Alaskan mill can be daunting.

To help you choose wisely, I’ve reviewed some top chainsaws for this purpose, considering essential factors like power, bar length, durability, ease of maintenance, and overall suitability for milling.

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Comparison Table: Best Chainsaws for Alaskan Mill

Model	Engine Power	Bar Length	Weight	Best For
Husqvarna Gas Chainsaw	38cc	14 inches	9.4 lbs	Medium to heavy milling
Coocher 62CC Gas Chainsaw	62cc	20 inches	16.5 lbs	Heavy-duty milling
Echo CS-590-24 Chainsaw	59cc	24 inches	13.2 lbs	All-purpose milling
Makita XCU11Z 18V Chainsaw	18V electric	14 inches	7.2 lbs	Medium-duty milling
Poulan Pro 20 inch Chainsaw	50cc	20 inches	13 lbs	Light-duty milling

What to Consider When Choosing a Chainsaw for Alaskan Milling

Before diving into the reviews, let’s cover the critical features to look for when selecting a chainsaw for Alaskan milling:

• Engine Power: Alaskan mills demand a powerful chainsaw to handle the significant load and cut through large logs. A chainsaw with at least 50cc is recommended, but for serious milling, 70cc or above will deliver better performance.
• Bar Length: The bar length should align with the type and size of logs you intend to mill. For Alaskan milling, longer bars (usually 20 inches or more) are generally preferred.
• Durability and Build Quality: Milling puts a lot of strain on chainsaws. Look for chainsaws made from high-quality materials with a durable build, especially models that can withstand prolonged, heavy-duty work.
• Ease of Maintenance: Chainsaws used for milling will require regular maintenance. Chainsaws with easy-access air filters, chain tensioners, and replaceable components will be more convenient in the long run.

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Top Chainsaws for Alaskan Milling

Here’s a closer look at some of the best chainsaws for Alaskan mill, complete with pros, cons, and real user reviews.

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1. Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw

The Husqvarna 120 Mark III is perfect for homeowners, casual users, and those who need a chainsaw for lighter-duty tasks such as trimming, pruning, and cutting firewood.

It offers excellent value for its price point, with a good balance of performance, safety, and comfort.

• Weight: 9.4 lbs (without fuel)
• Bar Length: With a 14-inch bar, this chainsaw is the ideal size for pruning smaller trees,
• X-Torq Engine for Fuel Efficiency: The 38-cc 2-cycle engine is equipped with Husqvarna’s X-Torq technology, which provides a significant reduction in fuel consumption

Homeowners enjoy how easy it is to trim trees and clear branches around the yard.

Some customers also mention that the automatic oiler is a great feature, as it ensures the chain stays lubricated during use.

Pros:

• Easy Start and Safety Features: The Husqvarna 120 Mark III comes with Husqvarna’s Smart Start feature, which reduces resistance in the starter cord, making the chainsaw easy to start,
• Ergonomic and Comfortable: The vibration dampening system and ergonomic handles make this chainsaw more comfortable to use compared to other models in its class.
• Safety Features: Equipped with a chain brake for safety, which provides peace of mind during operation.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than other models
• Higher maintenance requirements: since the build is a bit complex the chainsaw may require more maintenance as compared to other chainsaws

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2. Coocher Gas Chainsaw Powered 62CC Gas Chainsaw

The Coocher 62CC Gas Chainsaw offers solid performance for medium to heavy-duty tasks.

With its high-power 62CC engine, this chainsaw is capable of tackling thick branches, felling medium-sized trees, and performing heavy-duty trimming. Here’s a breakdown of the key features:

• High-Power 62CC Engine: This chainsaw’s 3.5 HP engine provides ample power for cutting through thick tree trunks and heavy branches
• Bar Length: 20-Inch Bar for Versatile Cutting offers a good balance between maneuverability and cutting capacity,
• Weight: 16.5 pounds

The Coocher 62CC Gas Chainsaw is an excellent choice who’re looking for best chainsaws for alaskan mill and who need a powerful, affordable chainsaw for medium to heavy-duty cutting tasks.

Pros:

• Complete Package: Includes a tool kit and carrying bag, making it convenient for transportation, storage, and on-the-go maintenance.
• User-Friendly Design and Portability: The chainsaw comes with a tool kit for on-the-go maintenance and a carrying bag, making it convenient to transport and store.
• Affordable Price Point: Compared to similar models, this chainsaw provides excellent value for its power and features, especially for homeowners and part-time users.

Cons:

• Fuel Consumption: The 62CC engine is fuel-hungry, which means users should be prepared for frequent refueling during larger jobs.
• Heavier: At around 15 lbs, this chainsaw can feel heavy, especially for prolonged use, and may be less suitable for beginners or users looking for a lightweight option.

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3. Echo CS-590-24 59.8cc 24″ Rear Handle Timber Wolf Chainsaw

The Echo CS-590-24 Timber Wolf is a powerful, professional-grade chainsaw designed for heavy-duty cutting tasks.

Equipped with a 24-inch bar and powered by a robust 59.8cc engine, this chainsaw is well-suited for felling large trees, cutting through thick logs, and handling intense forestry work.

Echo has positioned the Timber Wolf series to offer high performance with durability, making it an appealing choice for both professional and serious home users.

• Engine Power: features a nearly 60cc engine, delivering substantial power that can handle tough materials with ease
• Bar Length: 24 inches
• Weight: 13.2 lbs (powerhead only)

Pros:

• Adjustable Oiler: The automatic oiler with adjustable settings allows for efficient lubrication, prolonging the life of the chain and bar.
• Durable and Balanced Design: The saw is well-balanced despite its size, with ergonomic handles that reduce operator fatigue during extended use
• High Power and Performance: With its 59.8cc engine and 24-inch bar, the Timber Wolf is built for heavy-duty cutting tasks, easily handling large trees and hardwoods.

Cons:

• Weight: At 13.2 lbs (powerhead only), this chainsaw can be heavy, which may cause fatigue during extended use.
• Noise and Vibration: The powerful engine produces noticeable vibration and noise, which can be fatiguing for some users, especially without proper hearing protection

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4. Makita XCU11Z 18V Chainsaw

The Makita XCU11Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chainsaw is a compact, lightweight chainsaw designed for efficiency and ease of use.

With a 14-inch bar and powered by Makita’s 18V LXT battery platform, this chainsaw is ideal for trimming, pruning, and light-duty cutting tasks.

Although it’s sold as a “tool-only” model (batteries and charger sold separately), it’s compatible with Makita’s extensive line of 18V LXT tools, making it a flexible addition to any DIY or professional toolkit

• Power Source: 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery
• Bar Length: 14 inches
• Weight: Approximately 7.2 lbs (without battery)

The Makita chainsaw stands out for its ease of use and advanced air filtration system, which prolongs engine life.

This model also includes a decompression valve that ensures easy starts, reducing strain on the user and the chainsaw.

Pros:

• Lightweight: For its power class and weighing just around 7.2 lbs, making it an excellent choice for smaller tasks
• Brushless Motor: Enhances efficiency and extends battery life.
• Noise Level: Quiet operation with zero emissions, making it ideal for residential areas or noise-sensitive environments.

Cons:

• 14-Inch Bar Limitation: The 14-inch bar may not be sufficient for larger cutting tasks, limiting its application to smaller or medium-sized trees and logs.
• Limited Power for Heavy-Duty Work: While effective for light to medium tasks, this chainsaw may struggle with larger logs or tougher woods.

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5. Poulan Pro 20 inch Chainsaw

The Poulan Pro PR5020 is a 50cc 2-cycle gas chainsaw designed for homeowners and light to moderate users who need a reliable, high-performance tool for cutting and pruning tasks around the yard.

• Engine Power: 50cc, 2-cycle engine
• Bar Length: 20 inches
• Weight: 13 pounds

This chainsaw comes with a 20-inch bar, making it suitable for cutting through larger trees, thick branches, and firewood.

Known for its affordability and ease of use, the Poulan Pro PR5020 offers a solid balance between power, performance, and value.

Pros:

• 20-Inch Bar for Versatility: The 20-inch bar allows the PR5020 to tackle medium to large cutting jobs.
• Ergonomic Design: At 13 lbs, the Poulan Pro PR5020 is relatively heavy compared to some of the lighter chainsaws in the market.
• Automatic Oiler for Chain Lubrication: An automatic oiler is included with the PR5020, ensuring that the chain is always well-lubricated while in use.

Cons:

• Fuel-Oil Mix: The 2-cycle engine requires a fuel-oil mixture, which may be less convenient for users who prefer the ease of a 4-cycle engine that doesn’t require mixing.
• Requires Maintenance: Like most gas-powered chainsaws, the PR5020 requires regular maintenance, including oiling, chain sharpening, and fuel mixing

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Conclusion

Choosing the best chainsaw for Alaskan mill comes down to finding a model that balances power, bar length, and ease of use based on your needs.

The Makita XCU11Z is the go-to choice for those requiring a powerful machine for large logs, while the Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw and Coocher Gas Chainsaw offer solid power and reliability for medium to heavy tasks.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly, entry-level option, the Poulan Pro PR5020 is a versatile choice for lighter milling.

Each chainsaw has its strengths and drawbacks, but all of these models are proven to handle the demands of Alaskan milling.

Take into account the frequency of your milling tasks, the type of wood you’ll work with, and your budget to make the best choice for your needs.

FAQs

1. What size chainsaw is best for Alaskan milling?

• For Alaskan milling, a chainsaw with a minimum of 70cc to 90cc engine power is recommended to handle the strain of long, continuous cuts. For larger logs, chainsaws with over 90cc provide optimal performance, especially if the bar length is over 24 inches.

2. What bar length is ideal for Alaskan milling?

• The bar length depends on the size of the logs you plan to mill. For general use, 20 to 36 inches is common. A 36-inch bar is ideal for larger logs, while a 24- to 28-inch bar is sufficient for smaller projects.

3. Do I need a special chain for Alaskan milling?

• Yes, ripping chains are recommended for Alaskan milling. These chains are specifically designed for making smooth, straight cuts along the grain, which helps reduce the strain on the chainsaw and provides a cleaner cut.

4. Why do I need a high-powered chainsaw for Alaskan milling?

• Alaskan milling requires cutting along the wood grain, which puts more strain on the chainsaw than cross-cutting. High-powered chainsaws can withstand this strain, making them more durable and effective for prolonged milling tasks.

5. How do I maintain my chainsaw for optimal milling performance?

• Regular maintenance is essential for chainsaws used in milling. This includes sharpening the chain before each use, cleaning the air filter, and inspecting the chain tension frequently. Lubricating the bar and chain after each milling session will also extend the chainsaw’s life.