This is with a thin-kerf bandmill. Then get a loan for the hardware, saving your cash for log costs, inventory, advertising, etc. Gene On most logs, the board gained will have a hard time being worth the 500-dollar price range. I will give you that yield will increase. However, the extra yield comes from the center of the log, where the defects congregate.
Dimensional lumber has the greater advantage in realizing thin-kerf savings.
The extra wood comes from throughout the log, not just the center. Further, outside pieces in a tapered log can be longer. Instead of 10 feet 8 inches, the piece could be 11 feet long. A little here and there can add up. Therefore, it is the correct number to use for many species.