Timber Tuff TMW-56 Steel Lumber Cutting Guide Portable Sawmill Tool for Chainsaw

TLDR Review: Timber Tuff

Published: January 10th, 2026

Pros

  • Handles heavuty projects like building log cabins and ripping 20" logs with a 14" bar when used carefully.
  • Produces straight, square beams and more uniform planks compared to hand slabbing, reducing finishing time.
  • Durable enough to leave on the chainsaw during other tasks without issues.
  • Simple design with straightforward assembly, even if instructions are a bit lacking.
  • Easy and quick setup using a guide board that supports the chainsaw's weight, minimizing user fatigue.
  • Adjustable angle feature allows cutting at different heights and distances from the ground.
  • Drilling and bolting the jig directly to the chainsaw bar drastically improves stability over relying on set screws.
  • Works best for occasional use by handy, safetonscious DIYers rather than professionals.
  • Sturdy construction that, despite some play in the chainsaw bar, doesn’t majorly impact cut straightness.
  • Produces surprisingly clean, consistent cuts after making the recommended modifications.

Cons

  • Set screws designed to secure the jig tend to slip, dulling the chain and causing dangerous shifts.
  • Requires drilling holes in the chainsaw bar and modifying clamps for proper, secure mounting—extra effort involved.
  • Bolt loosening is a common issue; frequent checks and tightening during use are necessary to maintain safety.
  • Chainsaw handles can be uncomfortable during the physical effort involved in milling.
  • Generates a large amount of sawdust, which tends to accumulate on the operator.
  • Not suitable for fine woodworking or commercial milling due to limited accuracy.
  • Limited clearance for nuts on bolts often forces users to cut part of the clamp for proper fit.
  • Adjustment of the cutting angle demands extra arm strength and could benefit from a mechanism to lock it firmly in place.
  • Mounting the jig incorrectly (not bolted to the bar) leads to poor function and potential damage.
  • Sharpening long chainsaw chains manually is timonsuming, impacting ongoing maintenance.

Bottom Line

The Timber Tuff is a solid, budget-friendly chainsaw milling jig that works best for occasional, heavy-duty DIY projects like making beams or milling outdoor lumber. If you're willing to invest time upfront to drill and bolt the jig firmly to your chainsaw bar—and don't mind the physical challenge and sawdust—it delivers good value with surprisingly precise results for the price. However, if you want a solution with less fuss and more accuracy for professional or frequent milling, you might want to consider higher-end milling jigs with better mounting systems and angle locks. Still, for the handy weekend warrior looking to tackle big logs without breaking the bank, Timber Tuff is a dependable choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$24.05 at Zoro
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