Log Construction Manual: The Ultimate Guide to Building Handcrafted Log Homes

I just finished reading this book, and I have to say that it is head-and-shoulders above every other log home construction book I've read. The illustrations are superb, and the tone of the text is very objective and factual. In contrast to books with the "this is how I've been building log homes for XXX years" attitude, Chambers' approach is "I didn't invent it, but so far this is the best way I've found to do this particular task. If I find somebody else doing it a better way in the future I'll start doing it that way." Chambers not only isn't afraid of not-invented-here ideas, he positively embraces them! There is even a chapter on the structural engineering of log trusses, written by a structural engineer (fancy that). Chambers also covers the subject comprehensively, from the highest-level ideas (his chapter on settling is fascinating) to the lower-level details (proper chainsaw stance for cutting the lateral groove, for instance). Let me contrast this a bit with Mackie's "Owner-Built Log Home". Mackie's book is a good read, because he's a terrific wordsmith and he really conveys the pleasure of building your own log home. But his illustrations aren't nearly as clear as Chambers', and he tends to write for an audience that already understands a lot of wood joinery terminology and procedures. "Then we did this, and this, and this," and I'm like, "whoa, did you skip a few steps there?" I often found myself re-reading a page several times because I just couldn't envision what he was doing in my mind's eye. Chambers never leaves you wondering. I think both books have a place on your bookshelf, but if you really want to learn the most hands-on information in a single book, this is the one.

I am so thankful and excited that I found the Log Construction Manual by Robert W. Chambers. I have many other books on the same subject and have always wanted to learn the craft by self study, but I have not been impressed with any book until now. Robert Chambers is perhaps the world's best, a master, of full- scribe log construction to date! It is refreshing to read something that broke through the old ways of log building that have been used and practised for a hundred years.Mr. Chambers is an inspiration and I feel so confident from learning from his book that I will now build the best log cabin I could have ever hoped for. Thank you so much, Robert. I will be forever grateful that you shared your wisdom and great knowledge through your book, it is a treasure!

I have been interested in handcrafted log building for a long time. I bought many books on the subject, trying to teach myself the craft. They all lacked info needed by the novice. I could have saved myself alot of time and money! This is the book I was looking for! detailed, straight forward, understandable descriptions of each step... Clear, inside information about a complicated building process. I'm confident now to practice and perfect my technique and hopefully build a log structure on some land I recently purchased. Thanks Robert Chambers!

If I were allowed to have only one book on logbuilding this would be the one I'd keep. It is without a doubt the best written instruction guide I have found. Robert Chambers is one of those guys who seems to be able to explain complicated tasks in a very plain english kind of way. This makes it very easy for somebody like myself with no experience in logbuilding to be able to step outside and try some of the techniques on practice logs. He covers the very simple to the very complex and if you take your time and read it carefully you will understand both. If you are hiring someone to build your home this is still an excellent book for you. It educates the reader on where and how to look for good craftsmanship in a log building. I have read enough material on this subject to honestly say that all the others have left me with the question mark over my head. Good Luck and God Bless.....