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Picco / LP chain for milling with a smaller saw?

Discussion in 'The Sawyer Room' started by Jon1270, Apr 29, 2015.

  1. Jon1270

    Jon1270

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    Well, an Alaskan mill popped up on CL today and I'm going to buy it. I plan to use it on smaller logs with my 044, and I doubt I'll get the opportunity to use it very often. I've noticed threads over on AS about milling with picco/LP chain, which seems like a decent idea given that my saw is on the small side for milling. I happen to have a roll of Oregon 91VX and a Stihl FG2 that would allow me to change the angle and make it into ripping chain. But then, I get the impression that I'd need to pick up a spur sprocket to drive it with, and it still wouldn't run perfectly on the nose of any of the bars I have. The alternative is to buy some standard 3/8 ripping chains, which would cost more but be an easier way to get started. Not having any milling experience, I'm having a tough time deciding which way to go. Thoughts?
     
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  2. Shawn Curry

    Shawn Curry

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    My MMWS 660 definitely is not wanting for power, but I thought about trying some picco chain, just because of the smaller kerf. I re-filed my own chain with a granberg file-n-joint, because nobody local carries milling chain at all, and I couldn't find it in the right # of DL online. It was a lot of work filing it to a new angle by hand! Not so bad that I'd run out and buy milling chain though.

    I'd be interested to know how the picco chain works out, if you go that route. I've heard mixed opinions on the sprocket/bar question.
     
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  3. thistle

    thistle

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    Smaller chain with narrower kerf would work for smaller saws,but I wouldn't use it on anything bigger than 60cc.Too much torque from a bigger saw will snap that chain pretty quick.

    Go with 3/8 over the .325,it'll take more of the stresses & abuse that milling dishes out....
     
  4. Jon1270

    Jon1270

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    I'm seeing mixed opinions about that on AS. Several posts about success with good-quality LP, even on bigger powerheads than mine.