dimensional lumber

[Remmy122]

I hear this is the forum for milled lumber advice

Im looking for a 4x4x13 or something similiar. Im trying to build a bat box like one here http://www.batsnorthwest.org/rocketbox_plans.pdf. It calls for a big ol 4x4 but untreated. I dont want to use pine, would rather use oak or locust.

I dont Mill lumber, and dont know any one who does. The big box doesnt sell them, and if they did it would be really expensive.

Any suggestions on how I can find some one who does mill lumber, or since I need a rough piece of wood any way, should I give it a shot free hand? *since orig post I have decided I like all of my fingers and free hand isnt an option*

I live in eastren NC if that helps any one. (or will be in west MD this weekend if any one up that way can help me out )

 

[Thistle]

Ask around & check phonebook for anyone who runs a sawmill in your immediate area.There should be at least one who cuts rough native lumber like you're looking for.White Oak & Black Locust grows in your locale,shouldnt be too hard to find some.
Your dimensions arent too big,makes it simple to do it yourself..Its pretty easy to rough out a block or short post/beam with freehand cuts. Find the log you want,a few inches longer than finished length- take a straight edge & a sharpie,draw a line on the end grain.Lay it on the ground,sight down the length,make a rip cut,holding feet steady & saw just outside your mark.

In the pic below I needed a short 3.5 x 6 white oak block recently.You can see the black lines on the log I drew,just below the saw.Less than 2 minutes to cut both sides.Trued up the other 2 with bandsaw fence.With practice,its easy to stay within 1/8" of any line you make.

 

[smokinj]

mini mill if you have the timber. Once you get close to 10 foot just unscrew and slide the board down.
http://www.baileysonline.com/itemdetail.asp?item=46555&catID;=