How to Operate a Chainsaw

A chainsaw is a powerful tool, especially when it comes to big jobs involving trimming or cutting trees. But it is potentially very dangerous. Learn how to use it safely.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Chainsaw
• Chain oil
• Protective clothing
• Eye protection
• Trees or logs

1. Decide whether to use light or midweight chainsaw. A lightweight saw (8-14 inches) is ideal for trimming branches and small trees. A midweight saw (14-18 inches) is better for cutting larger trees and logs.

2. Read the owner's manual and observe the safety precautions before operating your chainsaw.

3. Examine the saw each day you use it for proper chain tension and adequate lubrication.

4. Consider tree diameter, lean, soundness, and crown distribution before making the first cut.

5. Support the saw firmly before you start it.

6. Keep your hands away from the blade.

7. Start the saw. Accelerate the engine to full throttle before beginning a cut. Always run the saw at full throttle.

8. Remove one-fourth to one-third of the tree's diameter with an undercut.

9. Make a backcut from the opposite side of the tree, about two inches above the undercut, to fell the tree.

10. Keep the saw running until the cut is complete and the saw is free of the wood.

11. Turn the saw off. Allow the blade to stop turning completely before setting it down.

12. Fuel the saw for the next use once the engine has cooled.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a hardhat with attached earmuffs and a screen-shield for eye protection.
• Wear sturdy work boots, leather gloves, and leg chaps.
• Never allow the blade to touch the ground; contact with dirt dulls the teeth immediately.
• *
• Watch the tip, or "kickback zone" of the bar. Cutting teeth can take an oversized bite and transfer the power toward the operator. Kickback can occur if the tip strikes an object like a rock or a knot in the wood.

[jcwags]

on 6/6/2007 avoid using the tip of the saw to do any cutting. i've seen guys do this in my line of work (landscaping) and it's soooo dangerous. that's where a lot of kickbacks occur. take the extra time and effort and saw right. another note is to check the bar and chain oil everytime you fill up for gas. if you're sawing a particularly tough wood (pressure treated, some shrubs, certain trees) or cutting through a lot of trees, it will use the oil up fast.