What size log is worthwhile for milling?

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softdown

There is only Ingsoc.
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Had to pay a large premium to get a hydraulic sawmill now. Will pick up this week end.
Due to huge wildfires there is a large selection of dead trees to work with.
Wondering what size log is worth loading on the trailer and bringing back for milling.
I know one can get a couple 2 x 4s from nothing much at all.
What size log do experienced millers seek?
Talking about pine and spruce here.
 
I chainsaw mill, normally im looking for the biggest my mill will handle, but really, its about what you need, if its just 3 or 4 2x4's then go with a smaller tree (14-18" diameter, if its slabs you want, the slab size determines the tree you pick

if you want a 24" wide slab, you get a 24" tree (or a little larger, as only the center most slab is the widest, you can keep smaller slabs from the same tree)
 
10 - 12 inch on the small end on the littlest ones
Smaller, one can waste around with higher overhead
and recover a few Bd. feet / Customer wise any under 10" & these are
by an hourly rate / firewood mostly for myself unless
little taper w/ tighter growth rings. (Center pith beams/posts, etc.)
The learning curve over time will determine your own use, needs & rates.......
 
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