When was the last time you bought new tools? How is your machinery looking? Being a DIY homesteader means creating tons of fun projects, but it also requires proper upkeep of your equipment. Maybe you’re buying your first portable sawmill or need a replacement for an old model. Either way, you’ve come to the right place.
It’s time to explore the market and see what your favorite hardware companies have in stock. Here are some of the best sawmills for your homestead, along with helpful portable sawmill reviews and places to buy them. Upgrading your work station will put you on the path to becoming a DIY master.
1. TimberKing 1200
People know TimberKing for their portable equipment, and it’s easy to see why. Their sawmill models are sturdy, durable and suitable for numerous jobs, whether industrial or DIY. The TimberKing 1220 is ideal for the homesteader lifestyle. It includes all the high-powered features of a professional version while still being conveniently mobile. Use it for logs up to 33 inches in diameter and cut on a hairline depth scale for the most precise results.
Every piece of machinery they make centers around their Big 3 Super-Structure style, which involves a four-post head, twin-beam log deck and big-beam power core. All these parts consist of solid-welded steel. One thoughtful review of TimberKing’s sawmills praises the “welded together and rigidly built” design of the heavy-duty log beds.
2. D&L 180SB

D & L Timber Technologies Ltd. offers the 180SB series, a portable swing blade sawmill with a cutting capability of 180 degrees. Made of durable stainless steel, this model guarantees stability and power with every task. Multiple attachments — including a slabbing bar and orbital sander — give it added versatility. The carbide blade is incredibly accurate and comes with a diamond sharpener for ultimate precision.
Circular sawmill blades are often thicker than bandsaws, which adds strength and works well for cross-cutting. Try this superior blade technology on your next at-home project.
3. Wood-Mizer LT15

Wood-Mizer is one of the top portable sawmill companies, thanks to their high-powered products. The Wood-Mizer LT15 comes in gas, diesel or electric, perfect for those who like having options. The company designed it specifically for farm use and small business, so it’ll be right at home on your homestead. It accommodates a 28-inch log diameter, and the power feed option makes your work cleaner and faster.
This review dives in deep with all the details and advantages of this machine. The blade and diesel engine stand out as notable features — you’re sure to get a quality cut with this sawmill.
4. Timber Tuff TMS-36

This chainsaw mill ranges on the smaller side, but it doesn’t lack any power or punch. Its size only enhances its best qualities — it’s compact and ideal for all your at-home needs. The Timber Tuff can cut lumber that’s up to 11.81 inches thick, proving it can stand beside the big dogs. Even if you only use it for small projects, it can still do great work on larger woodworking tasks.
You can buy it from Chain Saws Direct, Tractor Supply, Amazon and many other retailers. The aluminum and stainless steel body will ensure years of usage.
5. Norwood PortaMill PM14

Equip this mill with your favorite chainsaw and rip through lumber in seconds. Norwood‘s PortMill doesn’t make you struggle with clamps or brackets like many others, saving you time for what you love — woodworking. You can cut the same way you would with an industrial band sawmill, bringing the power of professional equipment right to your backyard. The patented throttle actuator allows smooth chainsaw usage and proves why Norwood is the portable sawmill company to visit for your DIY needs.
Purchase it from Norwood, Northern Tool or Amazon. A review of portable chainsaw mills from The Pro Cutter praises the machine’s precise qualities, stating that it “provides perhaps the most robust and accurate cutting measurements and semi-pro milling capabilities.”
6. HFE-21 Homesteader Sawmill

Hud-Son is your go-to for American-made mobile sawmills. Precisely as the name says, the HFE-21 is fitting for hobbyist projects and at-home wood cutting. This model is compact and lightweight, enabling you to pack it up quickly and leave. With a log capacity of 21 inches in diameter, you’ll get industrial-like quality with all the convenience of a portable sawmill. The heavy-duty bearing system will speak to this equipment’s strength.
Upgrade to the HFE-30 or HFE-36 Homesteaders for higher horsepower and larger log capacity. You can buy this mill from Hud-Son or Southern-Tool.com.
Choose the Most Efficient Sawmill for Your Homestead
The next time you need a high-powered cutter for a woodworking project, any of the machines above will perform amazingly. As some of the best portable sawmills around, they’ll finish the job every time. All that’s left is to select your favorite model.
Kayla Matthews writes and blogs about healthy living, sustainable consumption, eco-friendly practices and green energy. In the past, her work has also been featured on GRIT, Mother Earth Living, Blue And Green Tomorrow, Dwell and Houzz. To read more from Kayla, follow her productivity and lifestyle blog, Productivity Theory, and read all of her MOTHER EARTH NEWS posts here.
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