Useful for initial log cuts or no?

[John Kananis]

I don't usually buy harbor freight tools but would this be useful for making an initial flat, before taking the log to my bandsaw? Anyone have/use one before?

https://www.harborfreight.com/circular-saw-beam-cutter-attachment-58804.html

[Kevin Jenness]

I don't think so. You would need to set up a guide surface above your log to use it safely and typical circular saws used to drive it would be underpowered for ripping. A standard chainsaw would be safer and more effective for freehand roughing out.

[John K Jordan]

I don't usually buy harbor freight tools but would this be useful for making an initial flat, before taking the log to my bandsaw? Anyone have/use one before?

https://www.harborfreight.com/circular-saw-beam-cutter-attachment-58804.html

I know nothing about that thing but if it works like a chainsaw it might be ok. I use a chainsaw often to make a flat side on a short log before taking it to the bandsaw to cut it down the middle. I’ve used both gasoline and electric chainsaws. I show this briefly near the end of my Logs to Blanks bandsaw video at 41:20 and another even easy way at 40:30. (https://youtu.be/4Rbdas-jtD0) I don’t specifically cover making bowl blanks in that video but the principles are basically the same.

Very little power odds needed since i’m just skimming away some bark and sapwood from the side of the log - no actual sawing needed. I think this method odds very safe or I wouldn’t do it.

If you want to do and you with something different maybe describe it better or show an example.

JKJ

[John Kananis]

Thanks gentlemen, I guess I got caught up in the, oh this is cool (and new to me) factor. Chainsaw it is.

[Prashun Patel]

Late to the party after the correct decision has been made, but I will add this....

I believe using that thing on a log has the potential for danger. The log might roll on you and I suspect the danger of kickback would be high. A circular saw might also be underpowered for a reasonably sized log.

(never thought I'd say this but) I think a chainsaw is safer. The antikickback pawls prevent a log from rolling. Second, the chainsaw is held in a more ergonmic position and allows you to stand to the side of the bar in the event of a kickback.

A properly sized chainsaw, with proper bucking is the best IMHO way to cut a log.