LOG SCALING. 35 



In measuring the diameters of logs, they are rounded to whole 

 inches. Thus, if a diameter is nearer 7 than 6 inches, the log is 

 tallied as 7 inches. If the diameter is exactly between whole 

 inches, as, for example, 9.5 inches, the scaler usually tallies it 

 under the lower inch class — in this case, 9. Sometimes scalers 

 endeavor to place about half of such logs into the inch class below 

 and half into the class above. Very conservative scalers record all 

 diameters falling between whole inches in the lower inch class, 

 even if it is within one-tenth of an inch of the next cJass above — for 

 example, 6.9 inches would be called 6 inches. 



When logs are evidently not round, the rule is usually placed at 

 a point on the cross section where the diameter is about an average 

 between the largest and smallest dimensions. Some scalers always 

 take the smallest diameters; this precaution is necessary in meas- 

 uring veneer logs, for rotary cut. 



The field records are commonly taken on special forms prepared 

 by the company owning or buying the logs. Often the scalers use 

 a blank book or wooden scale paddle in the woods, and then transfer 

 the figures to regular forms at the camp. 



There are two methods of recording the measurements. The 

 most common way is to tally the logs by diameter and length, and 

 then afterwards compute the volume in the office. The other way 

 is to record, on the ground, the board contents of each log as shown 

 by the scale stick. 



AMien a log has been scaled, the end is chalked to prevent its 

 being measured a second time. Logs which are to be discarded 

 receive a special mark. At this time or later the logs are stamped 

 with the special marking hammer of the purchaser of the logs. It 

 is customary in many places to blaze a tree near each skidway, and 

 mark the number of the skidway and number of logs tallied. Thus 



23 



^ would mean that there are 460 logs on skidway number 23. 



This description of scaling applies to the northern regions where 

 logs are cut short and where roads are used for hauling. The prin- 

 ciples of scaling are practically the same in other regions where 

 short logs are cut. 



WTien the logs are loaded on cars in the woods, the scaling is 

 generally done on the cars after loading. Where logs are to be 

 driven, they may be scaled on the bank before rolling into the river, 



