Woodland Mills HM 136 MAX: Pros, Cons, and What It Means for Sawyers

Welcome to A Farm West of Boring REACTS!

This week, Woodland Mills unveiled their latest sawmill innovation: the HM 136 MAX, set to hit the market in October 2023. While we're still waiting on pricing details, I'm excited to discuss the potential pros and cons of this new addition.

**Pros:**
1. **Enhanced Size:** The HM 136 MAX can handle logs up to 36 inches in diameter and offers a maximum cut width of 36 inches, a remarkable 20% larger than its predecessor, the HM 130 MAX.

2. **Greater Cutting Thickness:** With a maximum cut thickness of 8.5 inches, this model outdoes the HM 130 MAX by an additional inch and a half.

3. **Powerful Engine:** Equipped with a robust 21 HP Honda V-twin engine, a significant upgrade from the 14 HP Kohler engine found in the HM 130 MAX.

4. **Convenient Fueling:** The removable gas tank simplifies refueling, ensuring more uptime for milling operations.

5. **Improved Design:** Notable enhancements include an upgraded throttle system, a better-functioning sawdust chute, and the introduction of log stop rollers.

**Cons:**

1. **Handling Heftier Logs:** To manage the larger logs this mill can accommodate, you might require heavier equipment for loading and turning.

2. **Hydraulics and Power Feed:** The absence of hydraulic features and power feed may be seen as a drawback for some users.

3. **Log Stop Rollers:** Although an improvement, log stop rollers can still pose challenges, potentially causing logs to hang up. Some may argue that using 2” PVC pipe is a more effective method for turning logs.

4. **Engine Size Increase:** The jump from a 14 HP engine to a 21 HP engine raises questions. Could this hint at future upgrades or options?

5. **Price Point:** The yet-to-be-announced price of the HM 136 MAX may be a deterrent for many hobbyist sawyers, particularly those considering the HM 130 MAX.

6. **Uncertainty Delays Purchases:** With the price awaiting revelation, some potential buyers of the HM 130 MAX might hold off on their purchase decisions, awaiting more information.

The HM 136 MAX is undoubtedly an exciting addition to Woodland Mills' lineup, offering impressive capabilities. However, its suitability depends on your specific needs and budget. We'll be keeping a close eye on this release and the woodworking community's reactions. Stay tuned for updates and discussions on this new sawmill!

HM 130 MAX
HM 122
HM 126

[TheBeardedCarpenter]

Howdy y’all- I watched the video they had and new it would be out of my price range for sure. I’m very happy with my 126 and I just finished the sawmill shed over it. So, I’ll just look and wish. Hope all is well. God bless

[donniebrown]

I'll just have to make my hm122 work for me lol

[johnwoody]

good video you are right you will have to have or buy some thing that can lift 5000 lbs. i thing the honda 21 hp cost over $ 3, 000 so the mill will have to cost a lot more . it would be nicer to cut 2 by8 off the top. if i were to up grade i would get one with log turner. but i don't think that will happen unless i get a good deal on a used one. take care, be safe and well.

[paulnovak]

The biggest con is the 21hp motor. You called it overkill id say its undersized. Unless cutting pine

[michiganranch]

It's 11, 000 I just talked to the rep