log handrail tools/cutters

I always come here for the tough questions ...I have a pretty big deck job coming up to install log rails and spindles.....any of yous have them/ any preference for a GOOD set?

are you peeling the logs or are you getting them pre-peeled?

they are pre peeled from wisconsin log homes in green bay

pretty cool attachment there

your going to need a tennon cutter I would imagine

a different style of tenon maker

I made log furniture for the cabin and I utilized Lumberjack Tools-I prefer the Commercial series, the tenon diameters are adjustable to match the forstner hole for a perfect fit. A bed frame is a railing with different dimensions but same principal of construction. I would recommend taking a 2 x 4 and making a jig by drilling a series of holes with a forstner bit the same size as your tenon ends with the proper baluster or spindle spacing. This will allow you to clamp it on your cap rail and base rail making sure you have perfect alignment. I would also make one with (2) holes for the post ends, without it, it’s almost impossible to get your balusters square. I sandwich the bed rails between the drilled 2 x 4 with spacings and a 2 x 4 on the bottom as a base and then drill all holes the same depth on my drill press, that way all spindles or balusters can be cut the same length. I dry fit the ladder assembly with ratchet straps, mark every, post, rail and baluster, for alignment, then disassemble and glue. I would also take the time to make a sled for the drill, similar to the one shown, you basically are holding a giant pencil sharpener by hand and when it grabs on a knot those ½” drills are notorious for snapping wrists. Using a draw knife to clean up your logs is fast when you’re a trapper (just like fleshing), I place my logs vertically and use a floor jack to tighten them to the ceiling, you can clean them or skip bark, leaving some of the inner bark layer depending on the look you want. Have fun- Good Luck!

there we go...thank you