As we looked at the timbers needed for our mill we wanted to consider our largest timber. This turned out to be our carrying beams measuring 8 inches by 15 inches. While this is feasible with the larger, non-production circular sawmills, it would require creativity. This just put one more vote for us in the bandsaw mill direction.
For most circular sawmills, the largest single pass cut depth, vertical or horizontal, is 10 inches. If you’re looking to make mostly dimensional lumber or posts under 10 inches you’d be set. Can you cut larger? Yes, but more effort and skill are needed and the process becomes a bit cumbersome