Yes, white oak will bring you to that reality quick.
That is white oak?
Yes, it is, and yes, I got about to the end of the 2nd pass, and the chain was clearly dulled. So I figure I quick pass with the file after each cut and I should be ok. But the newbie in me started to give the saw a little extra push towards the end of that second cut when the chain was dull, and of course the chain drifted and dug down, which ruined my perfect cut (LOL). But I was very happy to see what was inside for me.
Now, the only question is whether to keep cutting for these wide slabs, or roll the log a few times. I'm not sure what I'm going to do, so if anyone has any thoughts, feel free to share them.
I have 2 more oaks and one maple waiting for me after this log, and will post more photos when I get them.
As far as the 395XP and milling, well, I'm a newbie, but it's clear that this saw is more than enough to get the job done. With a sharp chain, she was ripping quickly and almost effortlessly.....but obviously you guys know this already. I guess to answer your question, all I can say is, it's the only saw I've ever CSM'ed with, so I really don't have anything to compare it to. But I will tell you this....it is a blast and I love it and again, I am so thankful for this MB or else I would probably still be trying to figure everything out somewhere else. You guys are great!
And yes, I will air dry. I slapped some latex paint on the ends and stacked the two I have with stickers on the side of my house and threw a tarp over it for now. I have to figure out a proper stacking location (I don't have a lot of room in my yard), but I don't have a kiln or the means to build one. The weather today was rough and I ran out of daylight, but tomorrow I will try to set them up so they are covered from above, but not encapsulated with no air flow. Might have to rig up something between the garage and fence.