30-36" bar on a Stihl 038 Magnum (for Alaskan mill)?

[NWSlabMan]

Hi Guys - I'm getting ready to pick up a Stihl 038 Magnum to use with my Granberg MK-IV 36" Alaskan mill, and I was wondering what the max bar size is I can use (with a good rip chain) for milling. The Stihl 038 Mag I'm looking at has a 24" bar, but I bought the 36" mill so I could occasionally do bigger slabs. Just wondering if the 038 will work with a bigger bar or if I'll have to move up to something like a 440 Mag or Husky 372xp (both of which are a lot more $). In case it matters, I'm doing a mix of wood types, but mainly hardwoods like walnut, cherry & apple. Thanks!

 

[cuinrearview]

Your 038 should do about as well as the other two saws mentioned. How well that is all depends on how patient you are.

 

[NWSlabMan]

Your 038 should do about as well as the other two saws mentioned. How well that is all depends on how patient you are.

Awesome - thanks! Any advice on a good ripping chain (brand or model)?

 

[BlackCoffin]

Like said above it will do it. The 038/super/mag have a lot more grunt but not the chain speed of the 044/440 so it should aid you in milling. Take your time, keep your chain sharp and let the saw run the show, don’t push it.