Log Board Foot Calculator (Doyle,Scribner,Int'l)
Estimate the board foot yield of a log with our free scaling calculator. Enter log diameter and length to get instant results using Doyle,Scribner,Int'l rules.
Log Board Foot Calculator
Estimated Board Feet
The Doyle rule tends to underestimate small logs and overestimate large logs. It is commonly used in the southern and eastern United States.
About Log Scaling Rules:
- Different regions and industries traditionally use different log scaling rules.
- The Doyle rule is common in the southern and eastern United States.
- The Scribner rule is widely used in the western United States.
- The International 1/4-inch rule is considered the most mathematically accurate.
What is a Log Board Foot Calculator?
A log board foot calculator is a specialized timber scaling tool used by forestry professionals to estimate the board foot yield from standing trees or harvested logs.
Why Use Our Log Scale Calculator?
Professional timber scaling tool with industry-standard log rules for accurate board foot estimation
Three Professional Scaling Rules
Our log board foot calculator includes Doyle, Scribner, and International 1/4-inch rules - the most widely used log scaling methods in North American forestry and sawmill operations.
Industry-Standard Accuracy
This log scale calculator uses authentic scaling formulas and lookup tables used by professional timber cruisers and sawmill operators for accurate board foot yield estimation.
Instant Log Scaling Results
Get immediate board foot estimates from log dimensions. This log board foot calculator provides real-time scaling results for efficient timber evaluation and pricing.
Professional Timber Scaling
Designed for forestry professionals, sawmill operators, and timber buyers who need reliable log board foot calculations for inventory, pricing, and yield planning.
Multiple Log Diameter Support
Calculate board feet for logs of any diameter. Our log scale calculator handles small diameter logs to large timber with accurate scaling rule application.
Mobile-Friendly Design
Use this log board foot calculator in the field on any device. Perfect for timber cruising, log yard scaling, and on-site board foot estimation.
How to Use the Log Board Foot Calculator
Simple steps to calculate board foot yield from logs using professional scaling rules
Measure Log Diameter
Measure the log diameter at the small end, inside the bark. This is the industry standard for log scaling and ensures accurate board foot calculations with our log scale calculator.
Enter Log Length
Input the log length in feet. Our log board foot calculator accepts standard log lengths used in timber scaling operations.
Select Scaling Rule
Choose from Doyle, Scribner, or International 1/4-inch rules. Each log scale calculator rule provides different board foot estimates based on industry standards.
Get Board Foot Yield
Click calculate to get instant board foot results. The log board foot calculator displays the estimated yield based on your selected scaling rule.
Log Scale Calculator Parameters
Understanding each parameter for accurate log board foot calculations
Log Diameter (inches)
Diameter measured at the small end of the log, inside the bark
Log Length (feet)
Total length of the log in feet
Scaling Rule
Industry-standard log scaling rule for board foot calculation
Log Scaling Rules and Formulas
Industry-standard formulas used by this log board foot calculator for professional timber scaling
Doyle Log Scale Formula
The Doyle log scale calculator uses this formula where D is diameter in inches and L is length in feet. Subtracts 4 inches for slab and kerf loss.
Board Feet = ((D - 4) ÷ 4)² × L Example: 16" diameter × 16' log = ((16-4)÷4)² × 16 = 144 board feet
Scribner Log Scale Method
The Scribner log scale calculator uses predetermined values based on diagram scaling. No mathematical formula - uses industry lookup tables.
Board Feet = Lookup Table Value × (L ÷ 16) Example: 16" diameter × 16' log = 230 board feet (from Scribner table)
International 1/4-inch Rule
The International log rule calculator accounts for taper and 1/4-inch kerf loss, considered the most accurate scaling method.
Board Feet = (0.22 × D² - 0.71 × D) × (L ÷ 4) Example: 16" diameter × 16' log = (0.22×256 - 0.71×16) × 4 = 181 board feet
Log Board Foot Calculator Examples
Real-world examples showing how different scaling rules affect board foot calculations
Small Log Scaling Comparison
Board foot calculations for a 12-inch diameter log using all three scaling rules
Calculation steps
Large Log Scaling Comparison
Board foot calculations for a 24-inch diameter log showing scaling rule differences
Calculation steps
Short Log Scaling Example
Board foot calculation for an 8-foot log using the log scale calculator
Calculation steps
Understanding Log Scale Calculator Results
Doyle Rule Results
The Doyle log scale calculator typically gives the lowest board foot estimates, especially for smaller logs. Widely used but considered conservative for small diameter timber.
Scribner Rule Results
The Scribner log scale calculator provides moderate estimates based on diagram scaling. Popular in the Pacific Northwest and widely accepted by sawmills.
International Rule Results
The International log rule calculator is considered most accurate as it accounts for log taper and modern sawing practices. Often used for timber sales and appraisals.
Log Board Foot Calculator FAQ
Common questions about log scaling and using our log board foot calculator
A log board foot calculator estimates the potential yield from raw logs using scaling rules, while a regular board foot calculator measures finished lumber. This log scale calculator accounts for bark, taper, defects, and sawing losses that occur when converting logs to lumber.
The choice depends on your region and purpose. Doyle is common in the Eastern US, Scribner in the Pacific Northwest, and International is considered most accurate for timber appraisals. Our log scale calculator provides all three for comparison.
Our log scale calculator uses industry-standard formulas and lookup tables used by professional timber cruisers. Accuracy depends on proper diameter measurement and log quality. Results are estimates - actual sawmill yield may vary based on sawing practices and log defects.
Yes! Our log scale calculator works with any log length. Standard lengths are 8, 10, 12, and 16 feet, but you can input any length. The scaling rules automatically adjust calculations based on the length you specify.
Measure the diameter at the small end of the log, inside the bark (excluding bark thickness). This is the industry standard for log scaling. Use calipers or a diameter tape for accuracy. Our log scale calculator requires this measurement for proper board foot estimation.
Each log scaling rule was developed for different purposes and time periods. Doyle is conservative and old, Scribner uses diagram-based scaling, and International accounts for modern sawing practices. Our log board foot calculator shows all three so you can compare results and choose the appropriate rule for your needs.
Log Board Foot Calculator Disclaimer
This log board foot calculator is provided for estimation purposes only. While our log scale calculator uses industry-standard scaling rules, please note:
1. Actual sawmill yield may vary significantly based on log quality, sawing practices, and equipment
2. Log defects, rot, and other quality factors are not accounted for in scaling rule calculations
3. Different regions may use modified versions of these scaling rules - verify local standards
4. This log board foot calculator provides estimates only - we are not responsible for timber valuation errors
5. For commercial timber transactions, use certified timber cruisers and professional scaling services
6. Always verify scaling methods with your local forestry professionals or sawmill operators