Log Board Foot Calculator

Doyle • Scribner • International 1/4" Log Rules • Estimate lumber volume from logs

Log Dimensions
Estimated Board Feet
Doyle Rule
—
Scribner Rule
—
International 1/4"
—
Average (3 rules)
—
Total Cost (avg)
—
Log Rules Explained

🌲 Doyle Rule (Most common for hardwoods)

BF = (D - 4)² × L / 16
Where D = diameter (inches), L = length (feet)

Estimates lower than actual for small logs, preferred for commercial hardwood.

📏 Scribner Rule (Eastern US softwoods)

BF = (0.79 × D² - 2D - 4) × L / 16

Based on diagrams of 1-inch boards. Moderate estimate.

🌍 International 1/4" Rule (Most accurate)

BF = (0.905 × D² - 1.38 × D - 0.84) × L / 16

Developed by the International Log Rule Committee. Most consistent.

Log Board Foot Formulas

Doyle: (D-4)² × L / 16
Diameter in inches, length in feet
Scribner: (0.79D² - 2D - 4) × L / 16
For softwood logs
International: (0.905D² - 1.38D - 0.84) × L / 16
Most accurate rule
Total BF = BF_per_log × Quantity
For multiple logs
Cost = Total_BF × Price/BF
Estimated value
Disclaimer: Log board foot estimates vary by log rule and regional practice. Doyle rule typically underestimates small logs; International 1/4" is considered most accurate. Actual yield depends on log quality, sawing method, and kerf. For professional use only.