Load Log and Plan Initial Cuts

What happens here

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including ear protection (like 3M Worktunes) and safety gloves, before starting the mill. Position a red oak log onto the sawmill's deck. In this instance, a LogOX 4-in-1 Forestry Multi-Tool is used to roll and position a heavy log. Take measurements of the log to plan your cuts. The goal is to maximize usable lumber and minimize waste. For this log, the strategy is to mill it into a square 'cant' first, then cut 1-inch thick pieces for 'dunnage' (stickers used for stacking lumber to air dry) and finally, 2-inch thick slabs for tabletops or bar tops.

Goal: Safely load the log and prepare for milling by planning cuts.