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Log to Board Foot Calculator

Convert log volume to board feet instantly with our Log to Board Foot Calculator. Get accurate lumber estimates using Doyle, Scribner, or Int’l 1/4 rule.

Diameter (in)
Length (ft)
International 1/4" Rule: Standard method for hardwood lumber. Assumes a 1/4" saw kerf and nominal board thickness.

If you're working in the lumber industry, woodworking, or forestry, you need to know how many board feet can be obtained from a log. A Log to Board Foot Calculator helps you determine the exact board footage of a log based on its diameter and length. This tool is essential for sawmills, woodworkers, and timber buyers to estimate lumber yield efficiently.

What is a Log to Board Foot Calculator?

A Log to Board Foot Calculator is a tool that calculates the board feet from a log by using a mathematical formula. The calculation depends on factors like the log's diameter, length, and the scaling method used (Doyle, Scribner, or International 1/4-Inch rule).

Board foot is a unit of measurement used to represent lumber volume, where:

1 Board Foot (BF) = 12 inches (L) × 12 inches (W) × 1 inch (T)

How to Use the Log to Board Foot Calculator?

Using the Log to Board Foot Calculator is simple. Follow these steps:

  1. Measure the Small End Diameter: Take the log's diameter (inside the bark) at the smaller end in inches.
  2. Measure the Length: Determine the length of the log in feet.
  3. Choose the Scaling Rule: Select Doyle, Scribner, or International 1/4-Inch Rule.
  4. Click Calculate: The calculator will display the estimated board footage.

Log to Board Foot Formula

The calculation varies depending on the rule used:

Doyle Rule Formula

BF = ((D − 4)² × L) / 16

where:

  • D = Small end diameter (inches)
  • L = Log length (feet)

Scribner Rule Formula

BF = 0.79 × D² × L

International 1/4-Inch Rule Formula

BF = 0.905 × D² × L − 1.38 × D × L

Final Verdict

A Log to Board Foot Calculator is an essential tool for accurately estimating lumber yield from logs. Whether you're a sawmill operator, woodworker, or timber buyer, this calculator helps you make informed decisions and avoid waste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most accurate log scaling method?

The International 1/4-Inch Rule is considered the most accurate because it accounts for kerf (saw blade width) and shrinkage.

Why does the Doyle Rule give lower estimates?

The Doyle Scale underestimates small logs because it assumes a larger waste factor.

Can I use this calculator for hardwood and softwood logs?

Yes, you can use it for both types, but some species may have different scaling rules.

What unit does the calculator output?

The result is in board feet (BF), which is the standard measurement for lumber volume.