Peterson Portable Sawmills
Used Portable Sawmills For Sale
New vs. Used Portable Sawmill: Which Is Right for You?
Investing in a portable sawmill is a major decision for hobbyists, farmers, and commercial sawyers alike. One of the first questions buyers ask is whether to purchase a brand-new model or look for a used portable sawmill for sale. Because Peterson swingblade sawmills are engineered in New Zealand for decades of heavy use, both options offer excellent value—but the right choice depends on your budget, timeline, and milling goals.
The Benefits of Buying a New Peterson Portable Sawmill
Purchasing a new sawmill directly from Peterson ensures you are getting the latest in swingblade technology, tailored exactly to your needs.
- Customization to Your Needs: Whether you need a Junior Peterson for a small homestead, an Automated Swingblade Mill (ASM) for high-volume production, or a Dedicated Wide Slabber (DWS) for live-edge slabs, ordering new means you get the exact configuration, power source, and track lengths required for your specific projects.
- Full Warranty & Peace of Mind: New Peterson sawmills come with a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty. If any part fails prematurely, you are covered.
- Latest Technology & Upgrades: Peterson is constantly refining its designs. Buying new ensures you get the most up-to-date features, easier adjustability, and modern engine options that meet current emissions standards.
- Comprehensive Support & Training: New sawmill owners get full access to Peterson’s global support network, setup guides, and maintenance resources to help you start milling faster.
The Benefits of Buying a Used Swingblade Sawmill
Peterson sawmills are built to last, making the secondhand market highly attractive for buyers looking to maximize their ROI.
- Lower Upfront Cost: The most obvious benefit is cost savings. A used portable sawmill allows you to step up to a larger, more capable model (like an ASM or WPF) for the price of a smaller, new entry-level mill.
- Immediate Availability: While new sawmills may have lead times based on manufacturing and global shipping, a used sawmill is ready to go. If you have timber waiting to be milled, buying used can save your downed logs.
- Proven Durability: Peterson’s robust steel fabrication means a well-maintained used mill can perform just as well as a new one. You can often find older models that have plenty of life left in them.
- High Resale Value: Because Petersons hold their value incredibly well, if you buy a used mill, decide sawmilling isn’t for you, you can often resell it for close to what you paid.
New vs. Used: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | New Peterson Sawmill | Used Peterson Sawmill |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Price | Higher (Standard retail pricing) | Lower (Cost savings of 20% - 40%+) |
| Wait Time | Weeks to Months (Based on production/shipping) | Immediate (Pick up or arrange shipping right away) |
| Warranty | Full manufacturer warranty | Usually sold "as-is" or with limited remaining warranty |
| Customization | Fully customizable (tracks, engines, blades) | Limited to previous owner's configuration |
| Condition | Pristine, zero engine hours | Varies; requires mechanical inspection |
| Best For | Commercial operations, specific use-cases, long-term investments | Budget-conscious buyers, hobbyists, immediate milling needs |
Used Sawmill Buyer’s Checklist
If you decide to explore used portable sawmills for sale, proceed with caution. Use this checklist to ensure you’re making a smart investment:
- Inspect the Blade & Swivel Mechanism: The heart of a Peterson is its swingblade. Ensure the blade engages smoothly, the swivel lock works perfectly, and the blade itself isn’t heavily chipped or warped.
- Check Engine Hours & Maintenance: Ask the seller for maintenance records. Whether it’s a petrol, diesel, or electric motor, check for oil leaks, strange noises, and how easily it starts.
- Examine the Tracks and Frame: Look for hairline cracks in the welds, bent track rails, or severe rust. While surface rust is normal, structural damage can affect cutting accuracy.
- Test the Winches & Adjusters: Ensure all the up/down and left/right winches move freely without skipping or binding.
- Verify Part Availability: Peterson supports its mills for decades, but if you are buying an older, rare model, double-check with Peterson that spare parts are still readily available for that specific year.
Scam Avoidance Warning
Please be aware, we hold no responsibility for the accuracy of information given, or for the condition or price of the sawmills listed here. If you are after a new swingblade sawmill, please check out our current models and/or download our pricelist. However, we do our best to assist millers who wish to sell their used portable sawmill equipment by providing this free listing page.
When buying used high-ticket machinery online, beware of deals that seem too good to be true. Never wire money to an unverified seller. Always request a live video call to see the mill running, or inspect the sawmill in person before exchanging funds.
Frequently Asked Questions (New vs. Used)
Is it worth buying a used portable sawmill?
Yes, especially with premium brands like Peterson. Because they are built with heavy-duty steel and robust engineering, a used Peterson can provide decades of service. If you are on a budget or want a commercial-grade mill at a hobbyist price, used is an excellent route.
Do Peterson sawmills hold their value?
Absolutely. Peterson swingblade sawmills are highly sought after on the secondhand market. Their reputation for durability, combined with high global shipping costs for new units, means used mills often sell very quickly and retain a high percentage of their original value.
Can I upgrade a used Peterson sawmill?
Yes! One of the advantages of a Peterson is its modular design. Many used mill owners purchase older models and upgrade them with new engines, longer tracks, or sharper blades directly through Peterson’s parts department.
What is the best portable sawmill for a beginner?
If you are just starting out, the Junior Peterson Sawmill is our most popular entry-level swingblade. It is affordable, easy to operate, and requires minimal maintenance. If you prefer to buy used, keep an eye on our inventory below for a pre-owned JP!
Second Hand Peterson Sawmill Listings
2021 Peterson 10″ Automated Swingblade Mill (1037)
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Year & Model: 2021 Peterson 10″ ASM (1037)
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Usage: Low hours (purchased new in 2021)
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Log Capacity: Up to 20 ft
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Track Setup: 18’ base track + 9’ extension kit (27’ total track)
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Included Extras: 2 extra blades
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Status: Excellent operational condition; turn-key ready
Ready for immediate production. Contact for pricing, photos, or to schedule a viewing.
Dave Barber
2002 WPF 8″ – Honda 24HP
2002 Peterson WPF – Winch Production Frame Peterson sawmill
Comes with 4.m + 4.m tracks to cut a 6m long log, up to 1.8m diameter, and boards of up to 8″ x 8″ or 8″ x 16″ by double cutting.
Four extra blades and an electric winch.
Can be viewed running on request.
Russell Wilkins
2017 Giant 10″ ASM 10e20 model
If you’re looking for a serious production sawmill with precision and power, this 2017 Peterson Automated Swingblade Mill (ASM) is ready to go. Purchased new in 2017, this Giant 10″ ASM (10e20) has been kept indoors its entire life and has only 150 hours of total use, making it an exceptional find for its condition and performance.
Specifications & Features
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Giant 10″ ASM 10e20 model
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3-phase electric motors
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Giant frame for handling large logs with ease
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Precision automatic operation for consistent board and slab cutting
Included Accessories
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Slabber attachment (perfect for wide, high-value slabs)
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2 x sawblades
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2 x planer blades
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Sanding attachment
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Sawblade sharpener
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Approx. 20 slabber chains
This mill has been used mainly for slabbing large logs, producing beautiful, wide timber slabs. The setup is in excellent working condition and ready for a new operator who values reliability and productivity.
Serious buyers are welcome to inquire for more details, photos, or to arrange a viewing.
John Brannaman
Get More Warranty, Efficiency, and Value With A New Sawmill
Enjoy a 24-month warranty, custom built sawmill to your specifications, and reliable performance. Straight from the manufacturer. Built tough for your projects, tailored for your success. Level up your lumber game – ask us how!
Call Aaron or Greg
2021 WPF 8″ – 26hp Honda
WPF with tracks. Has been stored indoors.
Randy Collins
2023 DWS – EFI Vanguard 28HP Gas
Original owner. Capable of slabbing logs up to 6 feet in diameter and 21 feet in length with ease. Handles cuts up to 10 inches thick. Comes with 7 extra sharp chains included.
Greg Jirik
2020 ASM 10″ – 37hp Vanguard
Comes with eight blades.
Cecil Zito
2017 DWS – 26HP Vanguard
Original owner, mill was used part time. No issues. Works as it should. 31.5 hours. Selling as retiring from sawmilling
Grant Shotwell
2003 WPF – 24.0HP Honda
Affordable Portable Sawmill. The mill is in good working order and has been stored indoors . Has never worked as a full time mill . I used it when I needed wood for furniture or canoe building . I also have a 4 ton Ark trailer with Hugh tyres for working in a muddy conditions . I have Hi Low set up with poles and 4 tracks and a feather edge attachment. I also have spare blades
Edward Vogel
2016 DWS-WPF – 27hp Kohler
Used Portable Sawmill. Had it for over a year and purchased the mill from the original owner. Am selling because I have purchased new mill to replace this one. Everything works well as it should.
Michael MacDonald
2005 ASM 10″ – 27hp Kohler
ASM with 27 HP Koler engine with new carburetor, 28′ track to 22′ log max.
Some switches and DC motors replaced. 8 sharpened blades with carbide teeth.
Sharpening tool, miscellaneous wheels and barrings.
2007 ASM 10″ – 37hp Vanguard
Automated sawmill 37HP, Comes with accessories including extra track for a 30’ log and a re-tipping jig.
Compare to Brand-New
There are a number of advantages to buying brand new including a 24 month extendable warranty on all frames, ability to custom build your own mill and set-up to your requirements, reliable manufacturer warranties on all engines and more.
Click the Compare Pricing button, fill out the form, and we’ll send you our up to date pricelist ASAP.
Purchased a second hand Portable Sawmill?
Please contact us with the serial number of your mill and we will grant you access to the owner’s-only area of our website and Facebook group. We can also help provide a manuals and spare parts catalogues you may be missing.