How to Use a Chainsaw - Kitchen Cabinets

Using a chainsaw safely and effectively requires proper technique, protective gear, and an understanding of chainsaw mechanics. With practice and caution, a chainsaw can help you efficiently cut and clear trees, limbs, and brush. Follow these steps to learn how to use a chainsaw properly from start to finish.

Select the Right Chainsaw

Choosing the proper chainsaw for your needs and experience level helps ensure safe and successful operation. Consider the following factors when selecting a chainsaw:

Chainsaw Types

There are two main types of chainsaws:

Gas chainsaws – Powered by gas engines making them ideal for heavy duty use. They are the most powerful option but require fuel mixture and maintenance.
Electric chainsaws – Corded or battery powered offering a more lightweight and low maintenance option. Best for lighter tasks and occasional users.

Power and Bar Length

The engine displacement or battery voltage correlates with power output. Match power level to your cutting needs.
The bar length, which guides the chain, ranges from 10 to over 20 inches on most models. Longer bars cut wider swaths but require more power to operate.
Opt for higher power and longer bars for cutting thick or hardened wood. Shorter bars suit light pruning tasks.

Added Features

Chain brake – Stops the chain immediately if kickback occurs for safety.
Anti-vibration – Reduces vibration for easier handling and less user fatigue.
Auto-oiling – Self-lubricates the chain and bar for convenience.
Easy start system – Simplifies starting the engine with less pull force required.

Budget

Chainsaw prices range from under $100 for basic electric models to over $500 for rugged gas chainsaws suited for regular heavy use.
Consider how often you will use the saw and the difficulty of the cuts you need to make. Infrequent light use can be handled with an economical model while frequent cutting of dense wood warrants a sturdier professional-grade saw.

Prepare the Work Area

Before firing up the chainsaw, prepare the space where you will be working:

Clear away any brush, debris, stones, or other objects that could interfere with operation.
Check for any nails, spikes, or other metal in the wood you will cut. Hitting them could damage the saw.
If felling trees, create a clear retreat path away from the expected falling direction.
Do not operate a chainsaw while on a ladder or in a tree, which is extremely dangerous.
Set logs or saw horses for resting and cutting wood.

Wear Protective Gear

Using protective clothing and equipment is critically important when operating a chainsaw to guard against injury. Required gear includes:

Chainsaw Safety Chaps

Chaps made of cut-resistant fibers worn over your legs provide protection if the saw chain accidentally touches your body. Regular pants or chaps will not stop the chain.

Steel-Toe Boots

Sturdy boots with steel toes and non-slip soles give foot protection and stability on slippery surfaces.

Gloves

Heavy-duty non-slip gloves protect your hands and improve your grip on the chainsaw.

Eye Protection

Safety glasses or goggles prevent sawdust and debris from getting in your eyes.

Hearing Protection

Chainsaws produce loud noise in excess of 100 dB that can damage hearing. Wear sound deafening ear muffs or ear plugs.

Helmet With Face Shield (If Felling Trees)

A helmet with a plastic face shield provides crucial protection when cutting down trees which can kick back unexpectedly.

First Aid Kit

Keep a first aid kit nearby in case of any minor injuries.

Check the Chainsaw

Inspecting the chainsaw and making adjustments helps ensure optimal, safe performance:

Check fuel level if gas powered, and charge battery if electric.
Ensure chain is tight but still easy to pull along the bar by hand. Adjust tension if needed.
Check chain teeth sharpness. Sharpen or replace dull chains for faster cutting.
Ensure chain brake is functioning properly by engaging and disengaging it.
Check chain oiler and adjust flow rate if needed. The chain should have a light coat of lubricating oil.
Clean the bar groove regularly to prevent buildup of sawdust.
Make sure all guards are in place and secure.
Start the saw and test at idle before beginning work.

Fuel and Start Gas Powered Saws

For gas chainsaws, proper fueling and starting procedure is required:

Check fuel level and top up if needed with the proper gas/oil mixture. The right ratio is typically around 40:1 but check manufacturer specifications.
Move at least 10 feet away from fueling area before starting.
Place the saw on clear, solid ground in an open area.
Engage the chain brake to prevent chain movement during start.
Set choke to cold start position.
Hold the front handle firmly with your left hand.
Pull the starter cord briskly with your right hand until the engine starts.
Let the engine warm up for a few minutes before disengaging the brake and beginning work.

Position Your Body Properly

Prior to making any cuts, assume the right stance and grip on the chainsaw:

Keep your left arm straight with hand on front handle so your body is to the left of the chainsaw bar and engine.
Firmly grip rear handle with right hand with thumb curled under for support.
Plant feet solidly on ground approximately shoulder width apart for stability and balance.
Maintain sure footing and clears means of retreat.
Keep saw close to body when operating for control.
Remain alert, focused, and sober – chainsaws are extremely dangerous when used carelessly.

Make a Notch Cut for Felling Trees

When cutting down a tree, first make a notch cut on the side the tree will fall:

With saw running at full speed, make top notch cut angling down at approximately 45 degrees. Cut to about 1/3 of tree diameter.
Make bottom notch cut horizontally meeting the top cut. Remove resulting wood chunk.
Leave approximately 2 inches of uncut wood between notching cuts to form a hinge that will guide the tree’s fall.
Size notch to face exact direction you want the tree to fall based on obstacles, wind, lean, and other factors.

Perform Felling Back Cut

After completing the notch, make the felling back cut on the opposite side:

Move at least 2 feet behind the notch on the back side of the tree.
Cut horizontally about 2 inches above the bottom notch cut.
As you near the inner edge of the notch, be prepared for the tree to begin falling and shut off saw immediately.
Retreat along clear path away from falling tree.

Make Cutting a Log Easier

Follow these tips for safer, simpler cutting of logs:

Use a sawhorse to raise one end of the log off the ground if possible.
Start cut from top of log with saw against your right thigh and leaning forward. Let the saw do the work.
Use wedges if necessary to keep compression off the saw.
Roll log with foot to expose uncut areas. Make cuts from the top side.
Stand on left side of log so body is away from path of saw.
Maintain full saw speed and light pressure through the cut.
Release throttle immediately at the end of cut.

Prune Tree Limbs Properly

When pruning limbs from a standing tree, employ these methods:

Keep tree between yourself and the saw for protection.
Make shallow notch on underside of limb 1-2 feet from trunk.
Finish cut from top down until limb separates.
Leave approximately 1/4 inch of wood at notch to prevent damage to tree trunk.
Larger limbs may require three cuts – under, over, under – to prevent bark ripping.
Keep saw moving at top speed when cutting.
Exercise extreme caution and use both hands when on a ladder. Consider hiring a professional.

Make Brush Piles Safely

Clearing away brush with a chainsaw requires extra vigilance:

Work slowly and cut one limb at a time. Moving too fast risks losing control.
Be alert for springback which occurs when cutting branches that are bent or under tension.
Release pressure at the end of cuts to avoid getting pinched.
Keep proper stance and balance. Don’t overextend.
Prevent kickback by using correct chainsaw grip and avoiding contacting wood with saw tip.
Watch out for wires, nails, and other hidden hazards.
Concentrate fully on chainsaw operation. Never rush.

Practice Proper Chainsaw Hygiene

Follow these maintenance steps to keep your chainsaw running cleanly and efficiently:

Regularly remove sawdust buildup from the bar, clutch cover, and guide rails with a wire brush.
Tighten chain periodically to compensate for chain stretch over time.
Sharpen chain regularly. Wait until you notice slower cutting to avoid removing too much metal.
Replace worn chains rather than trying to sharpen repeatedly.
Check tire muffler screen and spark arresting mesh are clear of debris.
Use compressed air to clean dust and dirt from the engine’s cooling fins, intake openings, and air filter.
Inspect fuel system components for leaks including lines, filters, cap, and seals.
Follow manufacturer’s lubricant specifications for bar oil reservoir.

Transport and Store a Chainsaw Safely

When finished operating your chainsaw for the day or transporting it:

Allow saw to fully cool before storage to prevent fire hazards.
Fill fuel and chain oil tanks to prevent moisture condensation issues.
Ensure chain brake is engaged before moving.
Carry saw by front handle with saw arm positioned to the rear.
Keep muffler and chain away from your body when handling.
Store saw in a high or locked location away from children.

Sharpen the Saw Chain

A sharp chain makes cutting easier and safer. Follow these steps to sharpen:

Tension chain appropriately. It should pull tight in the guide but still move freely by hand.
Clamp bar securely in a vise or other solid mount horizontally.
Use round file sized for your chain pitch. Chains have different pitches such as 3/8 inches.
Match file size to depth gauge setting. Standard settings are .025 inch for most amateur chains.
Draw file forward in one direction using light pressure. Avoid moving back and forth.
Maintain consistent filing angle. Mark file stop depth for consistency.
File cutters across top plate only. Do not round off cutting edges.
File cutters to match the length of the shortest one to ensure uniformity.
File just enough to remove any damage or rounded edges. Do not overfile.
Use flat file to adjust raker (depth gauge) height as chain dulls.

Exercise Extreme Caution When Using Chainsaw

While an effective and versatile tool, chainsaw operation presents serious hazards that require your utmost care and attention:

Never rush or take shortcuts when using a chainsaw.
Do not operate when fatigued or under the influence of any substances.
Maintain full focus and control over the saw at all times. Do not let it contact anything unintentionally.
Employ correct stance, grip, and body positioning.
Do not overreach or cut above chest height.
Heed kickback warning signs like sudden loss of control.
Shut off engine before setting saw down.
Understand basic first aid in case of accidents.
Respect the immense cutting power of a chainsaw blade and keep people and animals away from your work area.

With proper precautions, technique, and care, a chainsaw is an invaluable tool for yard work and wood cutting. Always put safety first and ask for assistance if unsure how to proceed. Take time to practice on logs before tackling large jobs. With experience, you will gain skill and confidence using this powerful equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using a Chainsaw

How do I start a cold chainsaw?

To start a cold chainsaw, engage the brake, set the choke to closed/start position, hold the front handle firmly with your left hand, then pull the starter cord briskly with your right hand. Once started, allow the engine to warm before disengaging the brake and beginning work.

What maintenance does a chainsaw require?

Regular chainsaw maintenance includes cleaning dust/debris buildup, monitoring and adjusting chain tension, sharpening the chain as needed, replacing worn chains, checking the air filter, and inspecting the spark plug and fuel system components.

What causes chainsaw kickback and how can I prevent it?

Kickback happens when the moving chain contacts wood near the tip of the guide bar causing sudden rotational force. Prevent it by using proper grip and stance, avoiding contacting wood with the tip, and cutting at full speed. Also install a chain brake.

How often do I need to sharpen the chain?

The frequency of sharpening depends on usage, but you can use the rule of sharpening after every third or fourth tank of gas used. It is better to sharpen more often lightly rather than wait until badly dull.

How do I safely transport my chainsaw?

Carry the saw by the front handle with the engine stopped and chain brake engaged. Keep the chain and muffler away from your body. Store it in a locked, high location away from children when not in use.

Can I operate a chainsaw from a ladder?

No, you should never use a chainsaw while on a ladder. It is extremely dangerous and risks serious accidents. Consider hiring a professional arborist for high limb removal jobs.

Conclusion

Operating a chainsaw safely requires donning protective gear, checking equipment, proper stance and grip, making basic cuts, observing kickback warnings, maintaining the saw, and exercising extreme caution. With in-depth knowledge of chainsaw handling techniques, vigilance about safety, and plenty of practice cutting logs, you can tackle tree felling, limbing, and brush removal confidently and successfully. Chainsaws are invaluable for yard work but also hazardous if misused. Your work area preparation, mental focus, and adherence to safe practices determine the outcome when using this power equipment. With the proper respect and skills, a chainsaw can be a trusted ally in managing your property’s trees and landscape.