In loving memory of Kenis D. Keathley 6/4/81 - 3/27/22 Loving father, husband, brother, friend and firewood hoarder Rest in peace, Dexterday

Marking out some logs with mingo marker

Discussion in 'The Wood Pile' started by Nord, Aug 13, 2026 at 9:57 AM.

  1. Nord

    Nord

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    Been using this thing for about a year, for me, so far this is the most efficient way to get consistent length rounds.

     
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  2. Woodtroll

    Woodtroll

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    I was going to watch it but the title was printed in some foreign language... ;) Just picking on you. Thanks for the demonstration!

    I've often wondered about those tools. Do they take proprietary paint cans, and how long does a can last? I've also wondered about those laser pointers that bolt on the saw handle, but have never read much about them either way.
     
  3. jrider

    jrider

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    Much quicker than my tape measure and sidewalk chalk but I do like the tape measure because as I get near the end of the log and I have 45” left unmarked I can adjust the last marks to be at 15” vs the usual 16” and I can avoid short cutoffs to a certain degree. Thanks for the demonstration though, that thing is much quicker than I thought it would be.
     
  4. Nord

    Nord

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    :D:D

    They use the inverted marker cans, like the ones used for marking roads or land. The can lasted me about 40-50 face cords worth of logs.

    Good point!
     
  5. The Wood Wolverine

    The Wood Wolverine

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    I’ve been a fan/user of the Mingo for a couple years. :salute: :thumbs:
    Curious, where was the microphone mounted for that vid?
     
  6. Nord

    Nord

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    Nice. The video was shot with my phone, why do you ask?
     
  7. Woodtroll

    Woodtroll

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    I had no idea the paint would last that long - certainly seems economical. Interesting, thank you very much.
     
  8. Nord

    Nord

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    It really does not use much paint to mark, just a split second every mark, leaves a 1-2 inch round mark. But, I highly recommend that you remove the paint from the unit when transporting it :rofl: :lol::rofl: :lol:
     
  9. Reloader

    Reloader

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    I use a 16” marker but stove can handle 18” if I split it small.
    I can visually adjust the last few cuts to keep from getting a small stub end.
    I purchased a 14” wheel to cut for the small outdoor fire pit.

    One thing I do when finished marking for the day is invert the can, press the trigger and clear the paint out of the nozzle to keep it from plugging up.
    That said, a partially plugged nozzle will really use considerably less paint and the can will last even longer.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
     
  10. Backwoods Savage

    Backwoods Savage Moderator

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    For sure that thing is not heavy but using it as in the video will not be kind to your back as time goes. That is the number one thing against it. I have known a couple guys who loved the tool at first but after using it for a couple years they stopped using it. But if it works for you, go for it.
     
  11. buZZsaw BRAD

    buZZsaw BRAD

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    Familiar with them but have never seen one used. Looks like you have to slow down for the "speed bumps"! :D
    Ideal set up for one there with the log deck. Marking them my way would do a number on my back.

    I use a folding ruler and chalk. Easy in and out of my pockets...cept when I'm really sweaty! :picard:
    Nice to put a face to the user name Nord :handshake:
     
    Last edited: Aug 14, 2026 at 8:46 AM
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  12. buZZsaw BRAD

    buZZsaw BRAD

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    I often tweak my measurements to eliminate a shorty.
     
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  13. The Wood Wolverine

    The Wood Wolverine

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    The clicks stay the same loudness no matter how far or close you are to camera. Just curious.. :handshake:.