Alaska

Granberg MK-IV Alaskan Review – Forestry Reviews

Published

2 years ago

May 29, 2023

Granberg MK-IV Alaskan Review – Forestry Reviews

The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a chainsaw mill that has gained widespread popularity among woodworkers and forestry enthusiasts. With its robust construction, adjustable design, and precise cutting capabilities, this chainsaw mill has become a reliable tool for those seeking to turn logs into lumber. In this review, we will explore the features, performance, pros and cons, user experiences, maintenance tips, and affordability of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan.

When it comes to milling logs into usable lumber, having a dependable tool is crucial. The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan offers a solution for woodworkers, allowing them to transform raw logs into various sizes of timber. With this chainsaw mill, you can maximize the potential of your chainsaw and create custom lumber for your projects. Let’s delve deeper into the features and specifications of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan.

Features and Specifications of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan

The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is known for its sturdy construction and durability. Made from high-quality materials, this chainsaw mill can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty milling operations. Its adjustable and versatile design enables it to accommodate various log sizes and shapes. Additionally, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is compatible with a wide range of chainsaw models, providing flexibility to users.

One of the standout features of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is its cutting capacity and accuracy. With precise adjustments and a well-engineered frame, this chainsaw mill ensures consistent and clean cuts. Whether you need dimensional lumber or slabs, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan delivers excellent results.

Setting up the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan

Setting up the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a straightforward process. Begin by assembling the mill frame, following the provided instructions. Once the frame is set up, mount your chainsaw securely onto the mill. It is essential to choose a chainsaw that is compatible with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan for optimal performance. Finally, adjust the depth of cut according to your desired lumber thickness.

Performance and Ease of Use

When it comes to performance, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan excels. The smooth and efficient cutting action allows for effortless milling. Even when dealing with large logs, this chainsaw mill maintains stability and control. The user-friendly operation ensures that both seasoned professionals and beginners can achieve accurate cuts consistently. Whether you are milling boards for a construction project or producing slabs for woodworking, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan delivers satisfying results.

Pros and Cons of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan:

Pros:

Sturdy Construction and Durability: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is built with high-quality materials, ensuring a durable and long-lasting chainsaw mill. Its robust construction enables it to withstand heavy-duty milling operations and withstand the test of time.
Adjustable and Versatile Design: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan features an adjustable design, allowing it to accommodate various log sizes and shapes. This versatility enables woodworkers to create custom lumber of different dimensions to suit their specific project needs.
Compatibility with Different Chainsaw Models: One of the significant advantages of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is its compatibility with a wide range of chainsaw models. This flexibility means that you can use your existing chainsaw with the mill, saving you the need to invest in a dedicated chainsaw for milling purposes.
Cutting Capacity and Accuracy: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan offers excellent cutting capacity and accuracy. With precise adjustments and a well-engineered frame, this chainsaw mill ensures consistent and clean cuts, resulting in high-quality lumber production.
Smooth and Efficient Cutting: Users of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan praise its smooth and efficient cutting action. It allows for effortless milling, reducing the effort required while producing precise cuts. This makes the milling process more enjoyable and efficient.

Cons:

Precise Adjustments Required: To achieve optimal results with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, precise adjustments are necessary. Users need to carefully set up the mill, align the chainsaw, and make adjustments for the desired depth of cut. This process may require some practice and attention to detail.
Physical Effort for Larger Logs: When milling larger logs, it can require physical effort to handle and maneuver them through the mill. The weight and size of the logs can pose challenges and may require additional assistance or tools to ensure safe and effective milling.
Additional Accessories: While the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan provides the essential framework for chainsaw milling, some users may find it beneficial to invest in additional accessories to enhance their experience. These accessories can include log supports, guide rails, and safety equipment, adding to the overall cost.
Learning Curve for Beginners: If you are new to chainsaw milling, there may be a learning curve involved in operating the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan effectively. Understanding the adjustments, proper cutting techniques, and safety precautions will require some initial practice and patience.
Limitations for Professional Use: While the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a capable chainsaw mill, it may have limitations for professional or industrial-grade milling operations. If you have large-scale milling requirements or need to handle extremely heavy logs, you may need to explore more powerful and specialized milling equipment.

Considering these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about whether the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is the right chainsaw mill for your specific needs and woodworking projects.

Comparison with Other Chainsaw Mills

One chainsaw mill that can be compared to the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is the Norwood PortaMill. Let’s explore the comparison between the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill:

The Norwood PortaMill is another popular chainsaw mill known for its quality and performance. Similar to the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, it allows woodworkers to transform logs into lumber with the use of a chainsaw. Here’s how the two compare:

Construction and Durability: Both the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill are constructed with durability in mind. They are made from high-quality materials to withstand the demands of milling operations. However, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is often praised for its robust construction, which provides exceptional longevity and reliability.
Adjustability and Versatility: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill offer adjustable designs to accommodate different log sizes and shapes. However, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is often regarded as more versatile, allowing for greater flexibility in milling operations. Its wide range of adjustability options provides woodworkers with more customization possibilities for their lumber.
Compatibility with Chainsaw Models: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is known for its compatibility with a wide range of chainsaw models, offering flexibility to users. On the other hand, the Norwood PortaMill is designed to work specifically with Norwood chainsaws, which can limit its compatibility options. This aspect gives the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan an advantage over those who already own a chainsaw.
Cutting Capacity and Accuracy: Both the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill are capable of delivering precise and accurate cuts. However, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan has a reputation for its exceptional cutting capacity and accuracy. Its well-engineered frame and precise adjustments ensure consistent and clean cuts, making it a preferred choice for those seeking high-quality lumber production.
Ease of Use and Smooth Cutting: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is often praised for its smooth and efficient cutting action, which results in an enjoyable milling experience. While the Norwood PortaMill provides satisfactory cutting performance, the smoothness and ease of use offered by the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan set it apart.

Both the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill have their strengths, but the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan’s sturdy construction, wider chainsaw compatibility, exceptional cutting capacity, and smooth cutting action give it a competitive edge in the chainsaw mill market.

User Reviews and Experiences

Using the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, I have been thoroughly impressed with its performance, and it seems I’m not alone. Let me share some user reviews and experiences that highlight the satisfaction and success that many have had with this chainsaw mill:

Mark, a seasoned woodworker, raves about the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, stating that it has revolutionized his milling process. He praises its sturdy construction, which has withstood the test of time, even with extensive use. Mark emphasizes that the mill provides consistent and accurate cuts, allowing him to create precise lumber for his woodworking projects.
Sarah, a hobbyist woodworker, shares her positive experience with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. She notes that the adjustable design has been a game-changer for her, as she often works with logs of various sizes. Sarah appreciates the ease of setup and operation, finding it user-friendly and beginner-friendly. She emphasizes that the mill’s smooth cutting action has made her milling tasks enjoyable and efficient.
John, a professional furniture maker, commends the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan for its exceptional compatibility with different chainsaw models. He highlights that this feature allows him to utilize his existing chainsaws, saving him the expense of purchasing dedicated milling equipment. John also praises the accuracy and precision of the mill, noting that it has significantly improved the quality of his lumber.
Lisa, a small-scale sawmill owner, shares her success story with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. She highlights its versatility in handling various log sizes and shapes, which has been crucial for her business. Lisa emphasizes that the mill’s cutting capacity has allowed her to process logs quickly and efficiently, resulting in increased productivity and profitability.
Michael, an avid DIYer, expresses his satisfaction with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. He highlights the product’s durability, even under demanding milling conditions. Michael shares that the mill’s adjustability has provided him with endless possibilities for creating custom lumber for his projects, enabling him to unleash his creativity in woodworking.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, proper maintenance is essential. Regular cleaning and lubrication help prevent debris buildup and extend the life of the chainsaw mill. Blade sharpening and replacement is necessary to maintain the accuracy of cuts. By following these maintenance tips, you can keep the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan in excellent condition for years to come

Price and Affordability

The price of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan varies depending on the specific model and its features. It is important to consider the cost-value proposition when making a purchase decision. The quality, durability, and performance of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan justify its price tag. Moreover, the long-term savings achieved by producing your own lumber contribute to its affordability in the long run.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a reliable and versatile chainsaw mill that offers woodworkers the ability to transform logs into high-quality lumber. With its sturdy construction, adjustable design, and precise cutting capabilities, this chainsaw mill has gained a reputation for excellence. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan provides an efficient and effective solution for your milling needs.

FAQs

How long does it take to set up the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan?
The setup time for the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan can vary depending on your familiarity with the product and the chainsaw model you are using. On average, it can take around 30 minutes to an hour to assemble the mill frame, mount the chainsaw, and make necessary adjustments for the depth of cut.
Can the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan be used with any chainsaw?
The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is designed to be compatible with a wide range of chainsaw models. However, it is essential to ensure that your chainsaw meets the specifications and requirements of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. The manufacturer provides compatibility guidelines, and it’s advisable to refer to them or consult customer support to ensure proper fitment.
Is it possible to achieve precise cuts with this chainsaw mill?
Yes, it is possible to achieve precise cuts with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. The mill’s adjustable design, combined with careful setup and proper operation, allows for accurate and clean cuts. However, it is important to follow the instructions, make precise adjustments, and practice proper milling techniques to achieve the desired level of precision.
Can the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan handle hardwood logs?
Yes, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is designed to handle various types of wood, including hardwood logs. With its sturdy construction and powerful chainsaw compatibility, it can effectively mill hardwood logs into desired lumber thicknesses. However, it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the hardwood you are working with and make appropriate adjustments for optimal cutting performance.
Does the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan come with a warranty?
The warranty coverage for the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan may vary depending on the region and the specific model. It is advisable to check the manufacturer’s warranty information or contact customer support to determine the warranty duration and terms. Typically, reputable manufacturers provide warranties to cover manufacturing defects and ensure customer satisfaction.

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Alaska

Nearly 70 years ago, the world’s first satellite took flight. Three Alaska scientists were among the first North Americans to spot it.

Published

5 hours ago

January 17, 2025

Press Room

Nearly 70 years ago, the world’s first satellite took flight. Three Alaska scientists were among the first North Americans to spot it.

Sputnik 1 orbits Earth in this artist’s rendition by Gregory Todd. (Creative Commons image)

On any clear, dark night you can see them, gliding through the sky and reflecting sunlight from the other side of the world. Manmade satellites now orbit our planet by the thousands, and it’s hard to stargaze without seeing one.

The inky black upper atmosphere was less busy 68 years ago, when a few young scientists stepped out of a trailer near Fairbanks to look into the cold October sky. Gazing upward, they saw the moving dot that started it all, the Russian-launched Sputnik 1.

Those Alaskans, working for the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, were the first North American scientists to see the satellite, which was the size and shape of a basketball and, at 180 pounds, weighed about as much as a point guard.

The Alaska researchers studied radio astronomy at the campus in Fairbanks. They had their own tracking station in a clearing in the forest on the northern portion of university land. This station, set up to study the aurora and other features of the upper atmosphere, enabled the scientists to be ready when a reporter called the institute with news of the Russians’ secret launch of the world’s first manmade satellite.

Within a half-hour of that call, an official with the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., called Geophysical Institute Deputy Director C. Gordon Little with radio frequencies that Sputnik emitted.

In October 1957, researchers from the Geophysical Institute track the Sputnik 1 satellite from the Ballaine Lake Tracking Station on the UAF campus. From left are Bob Merritt, Joe Pope, Pete Michelow, Gordon Little, Glen Stanley and Ernest Stiltner. (Photo provided by Geophysical Institute)

“The scientists at the Institute poured out of their offices like stirred-up bees,” wrote a reporter for the Farthest North Collegian, the UAF campus newspaper.

Crowded into a trailer full of equipment about a mile north of their offices, the scientists received the radio beep-beep-beep from Sputnik and were able to calculate its orbit. They figured it would be visible in the northwestern sky at about 5 a.m. the next day.

On that morning, three of them stepped outside the trailer to see what Little described as “a bright star-like object moving in a slow, graceful curve across the sky like a very slow shooting star.”

For the record, scientists may not have been the first Alaskans to see Sputnik. In a 1977 article, the founder of this column, T. Neil Davis, described how his neighbor, Dexter Stegemeyer, said he had seen a strange moving star come up out of the west as he was sitting in his outhouse. Though Stegemeyer didn’t know what he saw until he spoke with Davis, his sighting was a bit earlier than the scientists’.

Charles Deehr, an emeritus professor at UAF’s Geophysical Institute, created this image of Dexter Stegemeyer, perhaps the first man in North America to see the Sputnik 1 satellite in October 1957. From the book “Alaska Science Nuggets” by T. Neil Davis.

The New York Times’ Oct. 7, 1957 edition included a front-page headline of “SATELLITE SEEN IN ALASKA,” and Sputnik caused a big fuss all over the country. People wondered about the implications of the Soviet object looping over America every 98 minutes. Within a year, Congress voted to create NASA.

Fears about Sputnik evaporated as three months later the U.S. launched its own satellite, Explorer 1, and eventually took the lead in the race for space.

Almost 70 later, satellites are part of everyday life. The next time you see a satellite streaking through the night sky, remember the first scientist on this continent to see one was standing in Alaska. And the first non-scientist to see a satellite in North America was sitting in Alaska.

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Alaska

Western Alaska storm and southerly flow drives warmth back into the state

Published

13 hours ago

January 17, 2025

Press Room

Western Alaska storm and southerly flow drives warmth back into the state

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Gusty winds and heavy snow has begun to spread into Western and Southwest Alaska, with a surge of warmer air. Temperatures in Southwest Alaska is already 10 to 35 degrees warmer than yesterday morning. This warmth will spread across the rest of the state through the weekend, with some of the most pronounced warmth along the Slope. We’ll see many areas this weekend into next week remaining well-above average.

SOUTHCENTRAL:

Temperatures are slowly warming across Southcentral, with many areas seeing cloud coverage increasing. While we could see some peeks of sunshine today, most locations will see mostly cloudy conditions. While we can’t rule out light flurries for inland locations, most of the precipitation today will occur near the coast. Snow looks to be the primary precipitation type, although later this evening a transition to rain or wintry mix will occur. This comes as temperatures quickly warm across Southcentral.

We’ll see highs today in the upper 20s and lower 30s for inland areas, while coastal regions warm into the 30s and 40s. The southerly flow aloft will remain with us for several days, pumping in the warmth and moisture. As a result, Kodiak could see over an inch of rain today, with gusty winds.

While most of the precipitation this weekend remains near the coast, inland areas will see the best chance for wintry mix Sunday into Monday. Little to no accumulation is expected.

The key takeaways for this weekend, is snow transitioning to rain, with some gusty winds likely for parts of Southcentral this weekend.

SOUTHEAST:

Another fairly quiet day is expected across Southeast today, outside of some light snow near Yakutat. We’ll see a mix of sun and clouds with temperatures remaining on the cooler side. Parts of the Northern Panhandle may stay in the upper 20s today. The stretch of quiet weather will stay with us through the first half of Saturday, followed by an increase in precipitation and winds. This upcoming system may bring some heavy snowfall to Southeast, so be prepared for that potential this weekend. Temperatures warm into next week, back into the upper 30s and lower 40s for many areas.

INTERIOR:

While temperatures this morning have bottomed out as low as -30 near Fort Yukon, temperatures will warm into the weekend. A wind advisory for the Alaska Range goes into effect at 9 Friday morning, where winds up to 60 mph will warm the Interior. Temperatures today for many locations will warm into the single digits, with some of the greatest warming arriving Saturday through next week. It’s likely we’ll spend most of next week with temperatures in the 20s and 30s, with the warmest locations near the Alaska Range. While we will largely stay dry, there is a chance for some light snow arriving Sunday night into Monday.

SLOPE/WESTERN ALASKA:

Temperatures will remain slightly above average for parts of the Slope today, with warming winds to build into the Slope this weekend. This comes as our area of low pressure in the Bering Sea continues to move farther north. Be prepared for gusty easterly winds along the Slope, leading to blowing snow and reduced visibility. We’ll see temperatures quickly warm well above average, with highs climbing into the 20s and 30s along the Slope into next week. While some snow is possible through the weekend, the heaviest activity will occur for the Brooks Range. We’ll see the potential for 4 to 12 inches of snowfall, with the highest amounts occurring along the southern slopes of the Brooks Range near Kobuk Valley. Winds could gusts as high as 45 mph, leading to greatly reduced visibility.

Heavy snow is impacting Western and Southwest Alaska this morning, with winds gusting up to 50 mph. Numerous winter weather alerts, as well as a coastal flood advisory is in effect. The heaviest snow will fall for the Seward Peninsula and east of Norton Sound, where up to a foot or more of snow is to be expected. The heaviest amounts will fall today, with the activity set to lighten up through Sunday. In addition to the snow, gusty winds will lead to areas of blowing snow. Visibility could be reduced down to less than half a mile at times. As southerly flow continues to pump in warmth, we’ll see a transition from snow to rain later today into Saturday for parts of Southwest Alaska.

ALEUTIANS:

Gusty winds and heavy rain will fall through the Aleutians today, where up to .75″ of rain is possible. As the area of low pressure moves north, we’ll see a new low form just south of the Eastern Aleutians. This will lead to additional rain and winds into the weekend. Winds could gusts upwards of 50 mph through the Eastern Aleutians and through the Alaska Peninsula. With ridging to our east, more rain and winds remain with us into early next week. There is the potential that the Pribilof Islands see a return to snow Sunday, as colder air moves into the Bering Sea.

OUTLOOK AHEAD:

Well above average warmth will stay with us as we close out January. While one more short-lived cold snap is possible, we may have to wait until February before we tap into warmer conditions. Temperatures through the close of January will keep average monthly temperatures 5 to 12 degrees above average for much of the state. The overall trend still favors a wetter pattern, although with warmer weather the southern parts of the state will favor more rain or a mixed bag of precipitation.

Have a wonderful and safe holiday weekend.

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Alaska

Alaska governor, ally of Trump, will keep flags at full-staff for Inauguration Day • Alaska Beacon

Published

20 hours ago

January 17, 2025

Press Room

Alaska governor, ally of Trump, will keep flags at full-staff for Inauguration Day • Alaska Beacon

Alaska will join several other Republican-led states by keeping flags at full-staff on Inauguration Day despite the national period of mourning following President Jimmy Carter’s death last month.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced his decision, which breaks prior precedent, in a statement on Thursday. It applies only to flags on state property. Flags on federal property are expected to remain at half-staff.

Flags on state property will be returned to half-staff after Inauguration Day for the remainder of the mourning period.

The governors of Indiana, Idaho, Iowa, Texas, Florida, Tennessee, Oklahoma, North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana and Alabama, among others, have announced similar moves.

U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, said on Tuesday that flags at the U.S. Capitol would remain at full-staff on Inauguration Day.

Their actions follow a statement from President-elect Donald Trump, who said in a Jan. 3 social media post that Democrats would be “giddy” to have flags lowered during his inauguration, adding, “Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it. Let’s see how it plays out.”

Dunleavy is seen as a friend of the incoming president and has met with him multiple times over the past year. Dunleavy and 21 other Republican governors visited Trump last week in Florida at an event that Trump described as “a love fest.”

Since 1954, flags have been lowered to half-staff during a federally prescribed 30-day mourning period following presidential deaths. In 1973, the second inauguration of President Richard Nixon took place during the mourning period that followed the death of President Harry Truman.

Then-Gov. Bill Egan made no exceptions for Alaska, contemporary news accounts show, and no exception was made for Nixon’s inauguration in Washington, D.C., either.

A spokesperson for Dunleavy’s office said the new precedent is designed to be a balance between honoring the ongoing mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter and recognizing the importance of the peaceful transition of power during the presidential inauguration.

“Temporarily raising the flags to full-staff for the inauguration underscores the significance of this democratic tradition, while returning them to half-staff afterward ensures continued respect for President Carter’s legacy,” the spokesperson said.

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