I agree and learn about balancing money and teach them about interest rate like on loans they have no clue . I have had 21 years old can’t even make change it’s unbelievable .
wise words my friend. "This is what makes the money, doing the work". I started off with a small chain saw, an axe and free wood. I remember one of the first summers I started in the business I worked all summer and ended up producing 30 face cords. Sold that wood and bought a splitter and slowly built up my business. You have to be in for the long haul. Finally got a dump trailer this year. Efficiency is key in this business, you have to look at data to make informed choice. Saving 10 minutes here and 5 minutes makes the difference. Awesome video my friend, thanks.
You are correct! I live on an 82+ acre lot with about 35 acre woods. I go in cut dead trees into limbs and logs, drag them out of the woods with a tractor, cut into fire wood size pieces, split with a 3-pnt hitch log splitter, haul to home, stack and cover. I do all of this just for my own heating. All the work I do, I could not sell it for what I think that it is worth!
I totally understand what you’re talking about but I can tell you one thing what I’ve learned. I learned I had a few chainsaws in my life. I had Husqvarna and steel, but I can tell you all of them. I love my 500.i
@@InTheWoodyard yes they are. I believe that 100%. But I can tell you I love my 500 I it is a great saw I really enjoy watching your videos. You give a lot of inspiration. Like I mentioned to you before I have woodstove. I cut up a lot of firewood. I was out today splitting wood and it was awesome. Love your videos keep them up. I enjoy them.👍
Crap I'm off today so I'm spending my time with you. One thing you said makes the most sense! Embrace the suck. If you're dedicated to work hard, find a different solution.
Agree, i work in a jail. Currently 19 years in. Amazing seeing many new hires. They dont want overtime. We have some land, we are in rural northern Michigan. I want a new splitter. I totally agree. Splitters, equipment will put you in the hole. Your probably in a 10-30 percent who actually make money on firewood, you bust your butt, plus understand business side of this. Great job. Have a excellent week ahead.
You are correct about all five It’s physically hard work and bad conditions 24/7 Plus your not getting paid for a year and once wood sales you have to restock the supply
Im a tree surgeon who has been delivering wood for 1 year and i couldn't agree more, 50-70 metres lorry load not split, so alot more then that split on a 800 pound kinetic splitter and now finally ive brought a mdl 37 ton splitter as i can't keep up, his advice is bang on
I’m a 13 year old kid who has a firewood buisness with my dad. I’ve had this buisness for a little over 4 years now and I can 100% agree with everything that this guy says. My dad was actually the one who sent me this video and I’m super glad he did. Keep up the great work!
Wise words from the one place that holds all of the integrity... experience! Hate to sound like an old man but all the 20 somethings need to watch this video. Thanks Chris!
I bought my Stihl ms250 about 8-9 years ago and then bought my champion 27 ton log splitter about 3 years ago then just got my ms391 saw this year I believe I am set for what I need. Got tired of cutting big wood with my 250 and since I got my 391 with a 25" bar game changer.
When I had an idea to go buy something bigger and better my grandpa use to say "Better watch it boy, you`ll fly high and alight in a cow dab"...lol. You are absolutely right. Just go to work with what you have and build from there.
Wise words. When he says grow "slow" -- he means do some math, be smart, work within your means. It is very hard work. But, can be super rewarding too. If you want a "$10,000 splitter" & you're selling cords @ $250, you need to sell 40 cords to pay that off. Now, you don't have to do that in 1 year, but 40 cords should probably be close to the goal, if you are doing any substantial firewood in general. Again, this doesn't even touch any other costs you may have for a trailer & truck, or dump truck, & chainsaw & gas, oil, chains, your LABOR, & possibly your help too?? Those need to get factored in as well. If you have the clientele to match (let's just go with the 40 cords) -- Then, it possibly is a no brainer. You will save your back & produce the firewood exponentially faster with a professional grade splitter. You will be able to "pay off" the splitter investment in 1 season, or several quick seasons (when factoring in the other expenses we mentioned). However, as Chris is saying -- If you are just starting the business/venture; & only know 3 clients or 10 clients that only want 1/3rd a cord (face cord), or half cords, then your "demand" is 10 cords or less, you NEED to build clientele. Advertise, get your name out there. Figure out what you are selling (are you going to be the cheapest, but give "crap" quality; or, are you going to go higher quality & sell at premium price??). you can split tons of wood with just an axe or maul very fast. Then, a super cheap splitter ($1500 average) can split the pieces down to a good size (I always go by size of your fist -- it will dry the fastest for you & be easy to handle for all clients, older or weaker folks have tough time with big pieces -- you can always split "special" piles that are bigger or longer for folks who want that product specifically). You may want to consider STACKING as an extra feature service (CHARGE for stacking) -- you can charge hourly or however works for you for extra dollars (especially if you're not super busy with tons of firewood clients) -- Many clients love that extra offer & will pay $50, $100, $200 to have you stack; especially if you deliver 1,2,3 cords. That's a ton of wood for a person to stack. If you're willing, it can be good income. You can also advertise splitting & stacking trees that clients had a tree company cut down for them. You can advertise building firewood sheds (they aren't hard to build, tons of different style builds online) -- You can do basic, or very fancy styles. You can advertise you hauling wood & debris off people's properties. Charge them for it, but then you are getting wood for "FREE." There's a ton of things you can do to build your business & spread your name out there. The more you're willing to do, the more you will spread your name / BRAND.
Well said not many know what work really is and in business you will be working harder and longer than working for someone else . When you think you have time it means work not playing 😊
Did you see Chris loading the front of the truck bed WITHOUT hitting the window? XD He's not just talking about it, he's doing the work. And you can tell he's got experience doing it, cuz all the glass is still crack free. Well done, sir.
@@InTheWoodyard honestly this video was like a book thanks again for your wisdom everything you said it’s true like wanting the 500i but honestly I’ll be ok with my old 290
Very true. Without the work, you are never gonna make money no matter how much equipment you have. I think the same way with my landscape business and the same is true for most businesses.
I feel like you could save a lot of time with a dump trailer and loader. With that time you could be cutting and splitting more wood :p Love your videos btw
That speech is for every job from firewood to the corner office. It takes hard work for almost everyone to be successful. Think poor, be rich. Chris your next job should be motivational speaker. I still love the firewood.
I've ran my firewood business almost 20 years before I'm now starting to become more automated had 5 guys working for me. They wouldn't show up on heavy days bad weather ect. Down sized 2 guys bought a convayer this last year been great it dont call in sick
Yes good help is hard to find...no doubt. And machinery that can save you time, effort AND make you more money is a very good thing as long as it does not collect dust or rust!
I play guitar... the same goes for guitar players and probably a lot of other hobbies or side gigs I suppose. It's the "if I only had" such and so piece of gear I'd be able to do more and be better. I think it's a natural thing. We fool ourselves out of doing the practice and hard work to get where we want to be. I'm guilty of it. I have a new Stihl saw that I used one time to cut down a large tree on my mom's property. I want to do some small side weekend jobs because I like this type of work.
It sure does give you an unexplainable satisfaction, part of the liking to making firewood comes from the challenge firewood is. Makes ya strong with fast reactions
Mr. Brad it is time to pick yourself up off the candy store floor wipe your eyes and change your diaper! HA! Just kidding ,I know we both get each other message!
Chris- you killed it today bro! These words of wisdom are applicable to any industry. By far one of your bests videos. Thanks again for inspiring us, but keeping it real.
Chris- keeping to your "start small" philosophy, what kind of splitter did start out with before getting your Ultra? I believe your saw was a Husky Rancher wasn't it?
Sweat is the most powerful substance there is! My wife and I have become very successful by hard work and thrift. You nailed it when you said save your money and pay for things with CA$H! Love your work ethics.
I started out with a little 30cc Stihl, a splitting maul and a corded chainsaw I bought second hand when I went to collect some logs. Each time I made some money a small portion went into the “upgrade fund”. when I had enough and my current kit could not keep up with the demand, I upgraded one piece of kit. I then sold the old piece of kit and that money would go back into the upgrade fund. Each piece I’ve bought has been a very carefully considered choice to maximise productivity and returns - shiny never comes into the equation and I don’t go for more than I will ever need in the future, no 500i for me! I’ve now reached the stage where I have all the kit I need to do the job efficiently and easily. I have a 2 good splitters, a big hydraulic one for large stuff and a super quick kinetic one for the smaller stuff, 2 good chainsaws, a good trailer and various good hand tools. There is not one piece of kit that isn’t used on a regular basis. Upgrading any further would not increase my efficiency or returns and would be just a waste of money. So yes I agree, don’t go for shiny!
This is how I built my remodeling business. And now branching into the firewood realm. I've been consistent by working smarter not harder. And have never been afraid of getting my hands dirty. Oceans of blood sweat & sometimes tears got me to where I today.
Your advice applies to starting a business as well as life in general. Living beneath your means and understanding the difference between a want and a need is rare thing these days. I was lucky enough to finally get these principals through my head by the time I was 30. It makes all the difference in life.
Big amounts of firewood in that yard to handle by hand, one by one piece, quite time consuming, but that is great fitness and strength training for sure. Has it been evaluated to use wooden pallets and big nylon spunn bags for handling by the tractor. Can't be a big investment when one got a tractor in the first place, and save quite some time handling
I've had quite a few old timers tell me "if you're going to buy it have enough to buy it twice". I also see making money in 3 main ways: work for it, cut spending, and investing.
This is a great video for the kids coming up. Just remember that you said a dirty work to the new people coming up. Work. This just don't apply to wood industry. This is all industry. Keep up the great work. God Bless.
thought I might add have a friend who works on stuff...my briggs and straton motor broke on my old splitter a valve broke and went thru the bottom of the motor. My friend asked how much I wanted to spend on it. Asked what would be the least expensive and he said he had an old lawn mower motor that would work. He put it on and got it running in a day. Cost me $40 .....since it was an old motor...ii is still splitting wood here...slow but does a good job.....
Good, sound advice. The most important thing for me is fun. If you enjoy what you do you will turn up early and stay late etc, you naturally think about improving the process, maintaining equipment etc.
Chris, That was the success of My HVAC business, As long as you make the wise decision on the 1st purchase, All of my HVAC equipment that we bought back in 1988, Pittsburgh Machine, 10’22ga Brake, Slitting Machine, Welders, etc all cost $31,000 back then. 98% of the equipment I just sold was in good working condition and made Millions over the years, In fact my 1988 Ford dump we use was my company Truck. Hard Hard Hard work! Thanks for letting everyone Know the truth! Take Care my friend!🚜🪵👍🏼🇺🇸
This is something people in my generation (I’m 22) really need to hear. I’ve been cutting firewood since I can remember, I got my first chainsaw used at a flea market at 15 years old a MCculloch pro Mac 610. I cut at least 100 cord of firewood with that saw and as much as I wanted a shiny new sthil I used it until this summer she finally busted a ring and seized in the bore. I can proudly say I got my money out of this saw and the amount of savings I’ve made burning firewood instead of heater oil has let me have the money set aside to purchase a new husky 572 xp along with a full rebuild kit for my old saw (mostly for nostalgia and always a plus to have a backup) I should also say as much as I want the eastonmade axis since it’s design seems perfect for my back and leg that got injured while I was in the army it’s just not financially smart to purchase quite yet since my Ford 8n with an American 3point log splitter that’s got to be almost 18 years old now is still going strong and gets the job done just fine. Chris is right here it’s always less heartache and stress to just save a little money aside for the future when you know you will need to make a new purchase. It doesn’t break the bank when the time comes and it also goes unnoticed when small portions of your profits are being set aside towards a wear item. Shiny is always fun as I’m am dying to get my husky to sink in some wood but I also waited years and I’m sure I will get many years out of this saw
Watching this I wonder what is your background? It’s not only your idea, but how to get it across... and you did it well. I was thinking about my construction business and how I used your thoughts to make it successful. I’m 64 and still do heavy work daily. My business brain doesn’t shut off on weekends. My efforts made us the largest in our field in our state. The only thing I did differently from your conversation is that I spent the money on equipment. It wasn’t a shiny thing purchase. I calculated that buying equipment that cost 10x what my competitors paid allowed me to complete projects that took my competition 8-12 hours in 2-3 hours. Since it drastically reduced costs every job is significantly more profitable. The equipment is now paid off and I am enjoying the fruits of my labor. I also capitalized on the time savings by using those saved hours going door to door looking for clients. Now they look for me...
Calculated intelligent decisions are a very good things.You are on another level from most people, you spend money to save time and effort and energy to grow your business. Good on you!
Started my Firewood business with a $250 1969 Ford F-350 Dump, that I purchase from a cemetery the grave digger. Great advice start slow and develop your business couldn’t agree more👍👍
Favorite firewood channel because you show "WORK". Nothing against others but wonder how much work is done and how much time buying /playing with equipment. This firewood stuff is hard work, most people don't like this part. It's hard.
Great video Chris. A lot folks starting and running a business have no concept of their costs and overhead. At 72 and retired from a career, my situation is a little bit different. I’m cutting and selling a bit of wood “for the fun”, so sometimes at this point in my life my “wants” are more important than my needs. I think you’ll understand that.
I'm in the same boat, I need hydraulics to do what I could ten years ago. And its kinda part of a bucket list and shear enjoyment for all I earned and worked for over the years.
Chris blows away the smoke 💨 of many firewood pipe dreams. Cold hard reality of embracing the suck that sustained effort and delayed gratification of shiny upgrades are required for most all long term business successes.
@@InTheWoodyard That’s the time honored mantra. I hope it proves true in my case as well of year one building up my firewood inventory, using truck, a 5’ x 10’ non-dump trailer I already own, and hand splitting Ash, cherry, and locust …6 cord so far firewood 🪵 😊
@@canvasman2307 I would in your case recommend buying a used splitter that will speed things up a bunch for you and save a bunch of body wear. And you will make a lot more wood to sell.
I got out of firewood in 2010 .at that time I was selling a bit over 300 cord a year, with a 25 year old ton truck, 2 254 huskies, an upright woodsplitter I built mounted on a 35 massey tractor.Also had a forest equipment repair business and a 25 hour week job. Didn't set around much. Have to keep pushing
Awesome video Chris and very well said! What I normally do is that if I see something new and flashy…. If the price is $1,500.00 for that new toy. I would refuse to purchase it UNTIL I have twice the amount and then I would purchase it!!! Because you feel much better and happier with it and also have the money to pay for other things that you don’t have any control over the unexpected things! If unexpected things don’t happen…. Then you just saved the money to grow your business for better things later when you actually need them! Those equipment that you use to make your business grow bigger and better are not toys that just sit around and collect dust. They are actually made for working until they fall apart but always fix them until they can’t be repaired. By then you should have enough money to buy another one and continue with your business! Have a blessed day!
![Natanael Cano - Amor Eterno [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EO4prCs6WpM/mqdefault.jpg)
“Embrace the suck and get to work” 👏👏👏Needs to be the motto for most people. Well said!
Thanks Richard!
This video should be required to waych in every high school in America.
Thanks so much! Spread the word!
I agree it applys to so many things
100 percent!!!!!
I agree and learn about balancing money and teach them about interest rate like on loans they have no clue . I have had 21 years old can’t even make change it’s unbelievable .
Life lessons with Chris in the woodyard, better than a college degree!
Ha! Thanks so much Aaron!
Indeed!!!! agree 100 percent with you!
most dont hear him. look at people, most are over weight looking for the free ride
The best advice for a wood business I’ve seen and also business in general. Great practical advice.
Thanks!
I do like to work hard. I worked hard out my life. It’s time to enjoy things now.👍
For me working hard IS the fun part, I can rest when gravity eventually wins.
I so admire your ethos and work ethic Chris, I'm 77 and retired but I worked hard all my life and I'm now comfortable. Respect. Graham UK
Thanks so much!
wise words my friend. "This is what makes the money, doing the work". I started off with a small chain saw, an axe and free wood. I remember one of the first summers I started in the business I worked all summer and ended up producing 30 face cords. Sold that wood and bought a splitter and slowly built up my business. You have to be in for the long haul. Finally got a dump trailer this year. Efficiency is key in this business, you have to look at data to make informed choice. Saving 10 minutes here and 5 minutes makes the difference. Awesome video my friend, thanks.
Thanks for watching!
You are correct! I live on an 82+ acre lot with about 35 acre woods. I go in cut dead trees into limbs and logs, drag them out of the woods with a tractor, cut into fire wood size pieces, split with a 3-pnt hitch log splitter, haul to home, stack and cover. I do all of this just for my own heating. All the work I do, I could not sell it for what I think that it is worth!
Yup, it is a lot of work!
Im like you.after i cut, haul,split,stack a cord it would take 1000 dollars to get it and id still feel screwed.ha
I totally understand what you’re talking about but I can tell you one thing what I’ve learned. I learned I had a few chainsaws in my life. I had Husqvarna and steel, but I can tell you all of them. I love my 500.i
I have ran a lot of saws...hundreds of them. My favorite one is running good and sharp..big small old new they all are cool!
@@InTheWoodyard yes they are. I believe that 100%. But I can tell you I love my 500 I it is a great saw I really enjoy watching your videos. You give a lot of inspiration. Like I mentioned to you before I have woodstove. I cut up a lot of firewood. I was out today splitting wood and it was awesome. Love your videos keep them up. I enjoy them.👍
Instead of tossing profit out the window, Chris tosses his profit in the back of a pickup. You 'da man.
Good one Dave
Thanks Dave!
Thanks!
Crap I'm off today so I'm spending my time with you. One thing you said makes the most sense! Embrace the suck. If you're dedicated to work hard, find a different solution.
Yup, just get to work!
@@InTheWoodyard I worked on my house today, the 2do list
Agree, i work in a jail. Currently 19 years in. Amazing seeing many new hires. They dont want overtime.
We have some land, we are in rural northern Michigan. I want a new splitter. I totally agree. Splitters, equipment will put you in the hole.
Your probably in a 10-30 percent who actually make money on firewood, you bust your butt, plus understand business side of this. Great job. Have a excellent week ahead.
Yup, firewood is work and most people are afraid of work.
100% correct!! Take heed everyone
Thanks a bunch!
Amen brother preaching to the choir
Thanks for watching!
Always learning
You are correct about all five
It’s physically hard work and bad conditions 24/7
Plus your not getting paid for a year and once wood sales you have to restock the supply
Yup!!!
all life lessons. love it!
Yup, pretty much so! Thanks!
Im a tree surgeon who has been delivering wood for 1 year and i couldn't agree more, 50-70 metres lorry load not split, so alot more then that split on a 800 pound kinetic splitter and now finally ive brought a mdl 37 ton splitter as i can't keep up, his advice is bang on
Thanks for watching and good luck on the firewood business!
Perhaps you could do a video on equipment you've had and upgrades you've brought
I’m a 13 year old kid who has a firewood buisness with my dad. I’ve had this buisness for a little over 4 years now and I can 100% agree with everything that this guy says. My dad was actually the one who sent me this video and I’m super glad he did. Keep up the great work!
Hello there Mr. 13yearold! Thanks for watching and keep cuttin'!
Probably the best video yet 👏👏
Thanks for the kind words Rick!
definitely words of wisdom!!!
Thanks Billy!
My old chain saw locked up so I had to get a new one. I paid of it on the first job using it. I am now saving for a dump trailer.
AWESOME! Go for it!
Best video yet!
Thanks Ryan, keep cutting!
Man I wish our politicians had your work ethic and business ethics lol!!!
HAAAAAAAAA! You mean the legalized theifs! HAAAAAAA! Not a chance!
Nice video. A lotta people are just buying booze and fastfood long before they ever think of buying decent equipment. Vice's rule their lives
Yes, most people do not know how to separate wants and needs.
Good advice.
Nuff said.
Thanks Grant!
Best video you have posted
Thanks a bunch Guerry!
As they say in NASCAR .... to finish first, first you must finish!
Yup!
Wise words, Sir.
Thanks!
Personal opinion here, Best video hands down. Preach that accumulated knowledge
Thanks Andrew, I am glad you liked it!
Doing upgrades on equipment you already have is a good way to get cheaper equipment to run like better grade equipment
Yes it is a good idea!
Looks like I gave this the 900th 👍. Great advice. Thank you
Awesome! Thank you!
Well said. Great video!
Thank you kindly John!
Great video Chris !
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video
Glad you enjoyed it Scott!
Wise words from the one place that holds all of the integrity... experience! Hate to sound like an old man but all the 20 somethings need to watch this video. Thanks Chris!
Thanks Sam!
Superb advice... watching here in the U.K... I scavenge wood from farm's.. put the graft in.. I shoe osses too.. get ya back bent.. 🤠💪👍
Good stuff!
PREACH!!!!! Even outside of the Woodyard I wish more people understood all this.
Some people think they need to spend $30,000 or lots more to make $500 worth of wood once a year....nuts!
I bought my Stihl ms250 about 8-9 years ago and then bought my champion 27 ton log splitter about 3 years ago then just got my ms391 saw this year I believe I am set for what I need. Got tired of cutting big wood with my 250 and since I got my 391 with a 25" bar game changer.
Yes and you got a lot more power too!
When I had an idea to go buy something bigger and better my grandpa use to say "Better watch it boy, you`ll fly high and alight in a cow dab"...lol. You are absolutely right. Just go to work with what you have and build from there.
Yup, grandpa was right!
thank you, Chris!
Thanks for watching!
Wise words. When he says grow "slow" -- he means do some math, be smart, work within your means. It is very hard work. But, can be super rewarding too. If you want a "$10,000 splitter" & you're selling cords @ $250, you need to sell 40 cords to pay that off. Now, you don't have to do that in 1 year, but 40 cords should probably be close to the goal, if you are doing any substantial firewood in general.
Again, this doesn't even touch any other costs you may have for a trailer & truck, or dump truck, & chainsaw & gas, oil, chains, your LABOR, & possibly your help too?? Those need to get factored in as well.
If you have the clientele to match (let's just go with the 40 cords) -- Then, it possibly is a no brainer. You will save your back & produce the firewood exponentially faster with a professional grade splitter. You will be able to "pay off" the splitter investment in 1 season, or several quick seasons (when factoring in the other expenses we mentioned).
However, as Chris is saying -- If you are just starting the business/venture; & only know 3 clients or 10 clients that only want 1/3rd a cord (face cord), or half cords, then your "demand" is 10 cords or less, you NEED to build clientele. Advertise, get your name out there. Figure out what you are selling (are you going to be the cheapest, but give "crap" quality; or, are you going to go higher quality & sell at premium price??).
you can split tons of wood with just an axe or maul very fast. Then, a super cheap splitter ($1500 average) can split the pieces down to a good size (I always go by size of your fist -- it will dry the fastest for you & be easy to handle for all clients, older or weaker folks have tough time with big pieces -- you can always split "special" piles that are bigger or longer for folks who want that product specifically).
You may want to consider STACKING as an extra feature service (CHARGE for stacking) -- you can charge hourly or however works for you for extra dollars (especially if you're not super busy with tons of firewood clients) -- Many clients love that extra offer & will pay $50, $100, $200 to have you stack; especially if you deliver 1,2,3 cords. That's a ton of wood for a person to stack. If you're willing, it can be good income. You can also advertise splitting & stacking trees that clients had a tree company cut down for them. You can advertise building firewood sheds (they aren't hard to build, tons of different style builds online) -- You can do basic, or very fancy styles. You can advertise you hauling wood & debris off people's properties. Charge them for it, but then you are getting wood for "FREE."
There's a ton of things you can do to build your business & spread your name out there. The more you're willing to do, the more you will spread your name / BRAND.
YES! I agree with everything here Jesse!!!!
Well said not many know what work really is and in business you will be working harder and longer than working for someone else . When you think you have time it means work not playing 😊
Nothing needs efficiency and dedication like the firewood business.
That is the truth! Thanks for watching!
Did you see Chris loading the front of the truck bed WITHOUT hitting the window? XD He's not just talking about it, he's doing the work. And you can tell he's got experience doing it, cuz all the glass is still crack free. Well done, sir.
Ha! Thanks for noticing! I only have 50 years of not breaking glass wood loading under my belt.
Thanks pops
You are welcome son!
@@InTheWoodyard honestly this video was like a book thanks again for your wisdom everything you said it’s true like wanting the 500i but honestly I’ll be ok with my old 290
Very informative thanks
Glad it was helpful!
I have a Stihl MS290 18" farm boss and it never leaves me down
I also have the Log OX equipment man that will save your back
Yup, they make good stuff!
Nice!
Tools help you work efficiently
Yes as long as you can truly afford them!
Very true. Without the work, you are never gonna make money no matter how much equipment you have. I think the same way with my landscape business and the same is true for most businesses.
YES!
I feel like you could save a lot of time with a dump trailer and loader. With that time you could be cutting and splitting more wood :p Love your videos btw
I have 4 dump trailers and we use them a lot. This video was 3 years ago.
@@InTheWoodyardright on, I'll have to watch some new stuff!
Man did you ever hit the nail on the head. Great advice.
Thanks so much Greg!
That speech is for every job from firewood to the corner office. It takes hard work for almost everyone to be successful. Think poor, be rich. Chris your next job should be motivational speaker. I still love the firewood.
Ha! I do not believe in motivational speakers, I believe in getting your mind right yourself and a working routine. GOOD habits grow success.
I've ran my firewood business almost 20 years before I'm now starting to become more automated had 5 guys working for me. They wouldn't show up on heavy days bad weather ect. Down sized 2 guys bought a convayer this last year been great it dont call in sick
Yes good help is hard to find...no doubt. And machinery that can save you time, effort AND make you more money is a very good thing as long as it does not collect dust or rust!
Good messages. Appreciate like minded guys fighting the good fight
Thanks Christopher!
Great video!
Thanks!
I play guitar... the same goes for guitar players and probably a lot of other hobbies or side gigs I suppose. It's the "if I only had" such and so piece of gear I'd be able to do more and be better. I think it's a natural thing. We fool ourselves out of doing the practice and hard work to get where we want to be. I'm guilty of it. I have a new Stihl saw that I used one time to cut down a large tree on my mom's property. I want to do some small side weekend jobs because I like this type of work.
Yup, it is not always the gear but effort and time that makes the difference!
Well said.
Thanks Mark, keep cuttin!
this all makes sense. these day we think, work smart, not hard. but hard work is how we get things done.
Yup, you still have to work to get it done!
Your spot on ! Fire wood is nothing but blood , sweat and pain but it gives me some kind of satisfaction that I can't express . Good talk !
I agree with that, thanks Bruce.
It sure does give you an unexplainable satisfaction, part of the liking to making firewood comes from the challenge firewood is. Makes ya strong with fast reactions
But....but....but....I want it now!
Mr. Brad it is time to pick yourself up off the candy store floor wipe your eyes and change your diaper! HA! Just kidding ,I know we both get each other message!
Chris- you killed it today bro! These words of wisdom are applicable to any industry. By far one of your bests videos. Thanks again for inspiring us, but keeping it real.
Thanks Shannon!
Chris- keeping to your "start small" philosophy, what kind of splitter did start out with before getting your Ultra? I believe your saw was a Husky Rancher wasn't it?
Absolutely agree. It's what people don't want to hear but it's the truth.
Yes, most people can't handle the truth because it is painful.
What was your first saw?
But, the one with the most stuff at the end WINS! ;)
Sweat is the most powerful substance there is! My wife and I have become very successful by hard work and thrift. You nailed it when you said save your money and pay for things with CA$H! Love your work ethics.
Thanks Jeff!
Very good advice.
thanks Daniel!
@@InTheWoodyard no problem
I started out with a little 30cc Stihl, a splitting maul and a corded chainsaw I bought second hand when I went to collect some logs.
Each time I made some money a small portion went into the “upgrade fund”. when I had enough and my current kit could not keep up with the demand, I upgraded one piece of kit. I then sold the old piece of kit and that money would go back into the upgrade fund.
Each piece I’ve bought has been a very carefully considered choice to maximise productivity and returns - shiny never comes into the equation and I don’t go for more than I will ever need in the future, no 500i for me!
I’ve now reached the stage where I have all the kit I need to do the job efficiently and easily. I have a 2 good splitters, a big hydraulic one for large stuff and a super quick kinetic one for the smaller stuff, 2 good chainsaws, a good trailer and various good hand tools. There is not one piece of kit that isn’t used on a regular basis. Upgrading any further would not increase my efficiency or returns and would be just a waste of money.
So yes I agree, don’t go for shiny!
Mr. Wood, you are not just another pretty face, you are a smart WOOD MAN!
This is how I built my remodeling business. And now branching into the firewood realm. I've been consistent by working smarter not harder. And have never been afraid of getting my hands dirty. Oceans of blood sweat & sometimes tears got me to where I today.
In my businesses I have found that working smarter AND harder is the key!
@@InTheWoodyard I agree with smarter and harder when it comes to the competition.
@@markphillips5724 Yes!
I would add that buying new equipment isn't always the right answer.
Sometimes it is but not usually!
Your advice applies to starting a business as well as life in general. Living beneath your means and understanding the difference between a want and a need is rare thing these days. I was lucky enough to finally get these principals through my head by the time I was 30. It makes all the difference in life.
YES! The sooner you can separate your wants and needs the happier and more secure you will be!
Well said
Great advice, thx 😊
Thanks!
Big amounts of firewood in that yard to handle by hand, one by one piece, quite time consuming, but that is great fitness and strength training for sure. Has it been evaluated to use wooden pallets and big nylon spunn bags for handling by the tractor. Can't be a big investment when one got a tractor in the first place, and save quite some time handling
Those bags are $20+ each and I would need 800 so $16,000 and the people I have talked to that used them said they where not worth the hassle.
I've had quite a few old timers tell me "if you're going to buy it have enough to buy it twice". I also see making money in 3 main ways: work for it, cut spending, and investing.
yup!
Man I Needed This Information Thanks
Thanks for watching!
This is a great video for the kids coming up. Just remember that you said a dirty work to the new people coming up. Work. This just don't apply to wood industry. This is all industry. Keep up the great work. God Bless.
Thanks a bunch for watching!
thought I might add have a friend who works on stuff...my briggs and straton motor broke on my old splitter a valve broke and went thru the bottom of the motor. My friend asked how much I wanted to spend on it. Asked what would be the least expensive and he said he had an old lawn mower motor that would work. He put it on and got it running in a day. Cost me $40 .....since it was an old motor...ii is still splitting wood here...slow but does a good job.....
The slowest splitter can produce more wood than the fastest man with a maul, it just keeps going day after day!
Good, sound advice. The most important thing for me is fun. If you enjoy what you do you will turn up early and stay late etc, you naturally think about improving the process, maintaining equipment etc.
Yes, having fun is a big thing for me too!
All by hand you gotta be strong AF!!! 600 face cords a year is nuts!!!
No, actually I am very average, but my mind is right, that makes the difference.
Best advice on firewood processing I have ever listen too.
Thanks Wayne!
You know Chris that's probably the best video you can ask for thanks for sharing 👍
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks Jack!
Chris, That was the success of My HVAC business, As long as you make the wise decision on the 1st purchase, All of my HVAC equipment that we bought back in 1988, Pittsburgh Machine, 10’22ga Brake, Slitting Machine, Welders, etc all cost $31,000 back then. 98% of the equipment I just sold was in good working condition and made Millions over the years, In fact my 1988 Ford dump we use was my company Truck. Hard Hard Hard work! Thanks for letting everyone Know the truth! Take Care my friend!🚜🪵👍🏼🇺🇸
Thanks for the sane statements Larry, most people think they can spend there way to success.
This is something people in my generation (I’m 22) really need to hear. I’ve been cutting firewood since I can remember, I got my first chainsaw used at a flea market at 15 years old a MCculloch pro Mac 610. I cut at least 100 cord of firewood with that saw and as much as I wanted a shiny new sthil I used it until this summer she finally busted a ring and seized in the bore. I can proudly say I got my money out of this saw and the amount of savings I’ve made burning firewood instead of heater oil has let me have the money set aside to purchase a new husky 572 xp along with a full rebuild kit for my old saw (mostly for nostalgia and always a plus to have a backup) I should also say as much as I want the eastonmade axis since it’s design seems perfect for my back and leg that got injured while I was in the army it’s just not financially smart to purchase quite yet since my Ford 8n with an American 3point log splitter that’s got to be almost 18 years old now is still going strong and gets the job done just fine. Chris is right here it’s always less heartache and stress to just save a little money aside for the future when you know you will need to make a new purchase. It doesn’t break the bank when the time comes and it also goes unnoticed when small portions of your profits are being set aside towards a wear item. Shiny is always fun as I’m am dying to get my husky to sink in some wood but I also waited years and I’m sure I will get many years out of this saw
Very cool Bailey! Good to hear someone who is young get it!
You need to get a dump bed for that truck. Must have.
That was 3 years ago....I have 4 dump trailers to deliver firewood with now does that count?
Watching this I wonder what is your background? It’s not only your idea, but how to get it across... and you did it well. I was thinking about my construction business and how I used your thoughts to make it successful. I’m 64 and still do heavy work daily. My business brain doesn’t shut off on weekends. My efforts made us the largest in our field in our state.
The only thing I did differently from your conversation is that I spent the money on equipment. It wasn’t a shiny thing purchase. I calculated that buying equipment that cost 10x what my competitors paid allowed me to complete projects that took my competition 8-12 hours in 2-3 hours. Since it drastically reduced costs every job is significantly more profitable. The equipment is now paid off and I am enjoying the fruits of my labor.
I also capitalized on the time savings by using those saved hours going door to door looking for clients. Now they look for me...
Calculated intelligent decisions are a very good things.You are on another level from most people, you spend money to save time and effort and energy to grow your business. Good on you!
Started my Firewood business with a $250 1969 Ford F-350 Dump, that I purchase from a cemetery the grave digger. Great advice start slow and develop your business couldn’t agree more👍👍
Thanks John!
I agree. I'll stick to my Countyline log splitter lol.
Take care friend 👍🇺🇸
Yes, as long as you can keep making money at the rate you want to with it!
Sound wisdom, no matter what business you are in. It was also nice to see no truck windows were harmed in the making of this informative video! 😉
Ha! Thanks David!
Good morning, Chris. Sage wisdom on a Monday morning. Shiny object syndrome will keep one broke. Have a grand day. Goodnight Irene.
Thanks Brian!
Thanks Yoda! A teacher Yoda is
Thanks you too! In The Woodyard ,watch you should!
Embrace the suck! Good stuff Chris, nothing worth doing is going to be easy. Put the work in.
That is about it!
My absolute favorite video to date! Truer words were never said my friend.
Thanks a bunch!
Favorite firewood channel because you show "WORK". Nothing against others but wonder how much work is done and how much time buying /playing with equipment. This firewood stuff is hard work, most people don't like this part. It's hard.
Yes, it is a LOT of work!
All my life only equipment was a light chainsaw and a axe at home trucks not even mandatory lol my neighbor used his AMC eagle to get wood on 2 tracks
Nice! Just keep cuttin'!
Great video Chris. A lot folks starting and running a business have no concept of their costs and overhead. At 72 and retired from a career, my situation is a little bit different. I’m cutting and selling a bit of wood “for the fun”, so sometimes at this point in my life my “wants” are more important than my needs. I think you’ll understand that.
I'm in the same boat, I need hydraulics to do what I could ten years ago. And its kinda part of a bucket list and shear enjoyment for all I earned and worked for over the years.
I’m right behind you at 70. Tim
Yes, I totally do, you have earned it!
Yes you deserve it now Jim!
Just keep it moving!
Chris blows away the smoke 💨 of many firewood pipe dreams. Cold hard reality of embracing the suck that sustained effort and delayed gratification of shiny upgrades are required for most all long term business successes.
The turtle wins the race not the rabbit!
@@InTheWoodyard That’s the time honored mantra. I hope it proves true in my case as well of year one building up my firewood inventory, using truck, a 5’ x 10’ non-dump trailer I already own, and hand splitting Ash, cherry, and locust …6 cord so far firewood 🪵 😊
@@canvasman2307 I would in your case recommend buying a used splitter that will speed things up a bunch for you and save a bunch of body wear. And you will make a lot more wood to sell.
I don't even have a wood stove and I watched this entire video because the guy is interesting and telling you about life at the same time.👍
Thanks Turk, this guy has over 900 other videos waiting for you to watch right now and a new one every morning. Chris...the guy!
You are a wise man Chris. I know and agree with all you have said but I am still tempted to buy toys! Thanks for bringing me back to earth.
Thanks god bless
Thank you too John!
I got out of firewood in 2010 .at that time I was selling a bit over 300 cord a year, with a 25 year old ton truck, 2 254 huskies, an upright woodsplitter I built mounted on a 35 massey tractor.Also had a forest equipment repair business and a 25 hour week job. Didn't set around much. Have to keep pushing
Yup, firewood is a lot of hard work, but I do like it!
Awesome video Chris and very well said! What I normally do is that if I see something new and flashy…. If the price is $1,500.00 for that new toy. I would refuse to purchase it UNTIL I have twice the amount and then I would purchase it!!! Because you feel much better and happier with it and also have the money to pay for other things that you don’t have any control over the unexpected things! If unexpected things don’t happen…. Then you just saved the money to grow your business for better things later when you actually need them! Those equipment that you use to make your business grow bigger and better are not toys that just sit around and collect dust. They are actually made for working until they fall apart but always fix them until they can’t be repaired. By then you should have enough money to buy another one and continue with your business! Have a blessed day!
Right on Kevin! Good on you!
Funny how 11 months changed things😂
Good point, but I still believe you don't NEED all the toys to do it, just effort works great.