What Is Chain Saw? A Complete Guide for Beginners

A chainsaw, also known as a power saw, is a portable, mechanical saw powered by electricity, battery, or a two-stroke gasoline engine. It’s used for cutting wood, limbs, trees, and sometimes other materials. This guide will cover everything a beginner needs to know, from chainsaw types to chainsaw safety.

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Picking the Right Chainsaw

Choosing the best chainsaw for your needs can seem hard. Here’s a look at the different kinds available to help you decide.

Chainsaw Types: Power Source Matters

The first thing to think about is how you want your chainsaw to be powered. The three main choices are gas, electric, and battery.

• Gas Chainsaw: These are the most powerful. They are good for heavy jobs like cutting down big trees. A gas chainsaw needs gasoline and oil mixed together to run. They are also loud and need more upkeep.
• Electric Chainsaw: These are quieter and cleaner than gas models. An electric chainsaw plugs into an outlet. They are good for smaller jobs around the yard. They don’t have as much power as gas saws.
• Cordless Chainsaw: These run on batteries. A cordless chainsaw gives you the freedom to move around without a cord. They are good for medium-sized jobs. Battery life can be a factor.

Here’s a simple table to show the differences:

Feature	Gas Chainsaw	Electric Chainsaw	Cordless Chainsaw
Power	High	Medium	Medium
Mobility	High	Low	High
Noise	Loud	Quiet	Quiet
Maintenance	High	Low	Low
Best For	Big jobs, felling trees	Small jobs, yard work	Medium jobs, portability
Fuel/Power Source	Gasoline and oil	Electric outlet	Battery

Other Things to Consider: Size and Features

Besides the power source, think about these things:

• Chainsaw Bar Length: This is the cutting part. Shorter bars are for small jobs. Longer bars are for bigger trees.
• Weight: A lighter saw is easier to handle.
• Safety Features: Look for things like chain brakes and anti-vibration systems.

What Are the Chainsaw Uses?

Chainsaws can be used for a lot of jobs. Some common chainsaw uses include:

• Felling Trees: Cutting down trees safely and efficiently.
• Limbing: Removing branches from fallen trees.
• Bucking: Cutting logs into smaller, usable pieces.
• Pruning: Trimming branches on trees and bushes.
• Firewood Cutting: Preparing wood for your fireplace or wood stove.
• Storm Cleanup: Clearing fallen trees and branches after a storm.
• Woodworking: Some artisans use chainsaws for carving sculptures.

Vital Chainsaw Safety Advice

Chainsaw safety is extremely important. Here are some rules to keep you safe:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, ear protection, gloves, chaps, and a helmet.
• Read the Manual: Know your saw.
• Check Your Saw: Make sure the chain is sharp and the saw is working right.
• Work Area: Keep the area clear of people and obstacles.
• Two Hands: Always use two hands on the saw.
• Avoid Kickback: Kickback is when the saw jumps back at you. Be careful when cutting near the nose of the chainsaw bar.

Here is a list of crucial safety steps to take each time you use a chainsaw:

• Always wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment):
  • Helmet: Protects your head from falling debris.
  • Safety Glasses or Face Shield: Prevents wood chips and debris from entering your eyes.
  • Ear Protection: Chainsaws are loud; protect your hearing.
  • Gloves: Improves grip and protects your hands.
  • Chainsaw Chaps or Leggings: Offers vital protection for your legs.
  • Steel-Toed Boots: Protects your feet.
• Inspect the Chainsaw:
  • Check Chain Tension: The chain should not be too loose or too tight.
  • Inspect the Chain: Look for damage or wear.
  • Ensure Proper Lubrication: The chain oil reservoir should be full.
  • Test the Chain Brake: Make sure it engages properly.
  • Check the Throttle: It should move freely and return to idle.
• Clear the Work Area:
  • Remove Obstacles: Clear away rocks, branches, or anything else that could cause you to trip or lose balance.
  • Establish Escape Routes: Plan a clear path away from the direction of the falling tree or branches.
  • Keep People Away: Ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance (at least twice the height of the tree being felled).
• Start the Chainsaw Safely:
  • On the Ground: Place the chainsaw on a flat, stable surface.
  • Engage the Chain Brake: This prevents the chain from moving during startup.
  • Proper Stance: Place your foot firmly through the rear handle and grip the front handle securely.
  • Pull the Starter Cord: Use a smooth, firm pull.
• Use Proper Cutting Techniques:
  • Firm Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands.
  • Keep a Balanced Stance: Position yourself so that you won’t lose your balance.
  • Avoid Overreaching: Don’t extend yourself too far; move closer to the work.
  • Use the Correct Part of the Bar: Use the bottom of the bar for felling and bucking.
  • Avoid Pinching: Use wedges to prevent the bar from getting pinched.
• Be Aware of Kickback:
  • What is Kickback?: Kickback occurs when the tip of the chainsaw bar contacts a solid object or is pinched, causing the saw to suddenly jump back towards the operator.
  • How to Prevent Kickback:
    • Maintain a firm grip on the saw.
    • Avoid cutting with the tip of the bar.
    • Keep the chain properly sharpened.
    • Ensure the depth gauges are properly set.
• Take Breaks:
  • Fatigue: Operating a chainsaw can be physically demanding; take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
  • Stay Alert: Being tired can lead to mistakes and injuries.
• Carry the Chainsaw Safely:
  • Turn it Off: Always turn off the chainsaw before carrying it.
  • Engage the Chain Brake: This prevents accidental chain movement.
  • Position the Bar: Carry the chainsaw with the bar pointing behind you and the muffler away from your body.
• Refuel Properly:
  • Cool Engine: Allow the engine to cool completely before refueling.
  • Clear Area: Refuel in a well-ventilated area away from sparks or flames.
  • Use Proper Fuel: Use the correct fuel-oil mixture as specified by the manufacturer for gas chainsaw engines.
• Store the Chainsaw Safely:
  • Clean the Saw: Remove sawdust and debris from the chainsaw after each use.
  • Store in a Dry Place: Keep the chainsaw in a dry, secure location.
  • Use a Scabbard: Cover the chainsaw bar with a scabbard to protect the chain and prevent accidental cuts.
  • Empty Fuel Tank: For long-term storage, drain the fuel tank to prevent fuel degradation.

Table: PPE for Chainsaw Operation

Equipment	Purpose
Helmet	Protects your head from falling branches/debris
Safety Glasses	Protects your eyes from flying wood chips
Ear Protection	Prevents hearing damage from loud noise
Gloves	Improves grip and protects your hands
Chainsaw Chaps	Protects your legs from accidental cuts
Steel-Toed Boots	Protects your feet from falling objects and cuts

Chainsaw Maintenance: Keeping Your Saw in Shape

Regular chainsaw maintenance will keep your saw running well and safe.

• Sharpen the Chain: A sharp chainsaw chain cuts better and is safer.
• Clean the Air Filter: A clean filter helps the engine run smoothly.
• Check the Spark Plug: Replace it if it’s dirty or damaged.
• Lubricate the Bar: Use the right oil to keep the chainsaw bar and chain moving smoothly.
• Check Chain Tension: The chain should not be too loose or too tight.
• Inspect for Damage: Look for cracks, loose parts, or wear.

Steps for Sharpening a Chainsaw Chain

1. Secure the Chainsaw: Place the chainsaw on a flat, stable surface and engage the chain brake.
2. Use the Correct File: Use a round file that matches the size of the chain’s cutters. Check your chainsaw manual for the correct file size.
3. File at the Correct Angle: Most chains have markings that indicate the correct filing angle. Hold the file at this angle.
4. File Each Cutter: File each cutter from the inside out, using smooth, even strokes. File all cutters on one side, then rotate the saw and file the cutters on the other side.
5. Check the Depth Gauges: Use a flat file and a depth gauge tool to ensure the depth gauges (the small projections in front of each cutter) are at the correct height.
6. Test the Chain: After sharpening, the chain should cut smoothly and evenly.

List: Maintenance Schedule

• Before Each Use:
  • Check chain tension.
  • Check chain oil level.
  • Inspect the chain for damage.
  • Ensure the chain brake is working.
• After Each Use:
  • Clean sawdust and debris from the saw.
  • Check and clean the air filter.
  • Wipe down the chainsaw bar.
• Monthly:
  • Sharpen the chainsaw chain.
  • Check the spark plug.
  • Inspect the fuel filter (for gas saws).
• Yearly:
  • Replace the spark plug.
  • Have the saw professionally serviced.

Fathoming Chainsaw Bar and Chain

The chainsaw bar and chainsaw chain are two of the most important parts of a chainsaw. The bar guides the chain, and the chain does the cutting.

Choosing the Right Bar Length

The right bar length depends on the size of the wood you plan to cut.

• Small Jobs: A 12-14 inch bar is good for pruning and small limbs.
• Medium Jobs: A 16-18 inch bar is good for general yard work.
• Large Jobs: A 20+ inch bar is needed for felling large trees.

Chainsaw Chain Types

There are different kinds of chains for different jobs.

• Full Chisel: Cuts fast but dulls quickly.
• Semi-Chisel: A good balance of cutting speed and durability.
• Low Profile: Safer and easier to control, but cuts slower.

How to Replace a Chainsaw Chain

1. Turn off the Saw: Make sure the saw is off and the chain brake is engaged.
2. Loosen the Bar Nuts: Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the chainsaw bar in place.
3. Remove the Old Chain: Take off the old chain from the bar and sprocket.
4. Install the New Chain: Place the new chain around the bar, making sure the cutting edges are facing the right way.
5. Adjust the Tension: Use the tension screw to adjust the chain so it fits snugly on the bar.
6. Tighten the Bar Nuts: Tighten the bar nuts securely.
7. Check the Tension: Make sure the chain can move freely around the bar.

Grasping the Differences Between Gas, Electric, and Cordless Chainsaws

Each type of chainsaw has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Gas Chainsaws: The Powerhouse

• Pros: High power, long run time, good for big jobs.
• Cons: Noisy, heavy, needs more maintenance.

Electric Chainsaws: The Quiet Option

• Pros: Quiet, easy to start, low maintenance.
• Cons: Less power, needs a power outlet.

Cordless Chainsaws: The Portable Choice

• Pros: Portable, quiet, easy to use.
• Cons: Limited battery life, less power than gas saws.

FAQ: Common Chainsaw Questions

• What is the best chainsaw for a beginner?
  • An electric or cordless chainsaw is usually best for beginners because they are easier to start and maintain.
• Can I cut wet wood with a chainsaw?
  • Yes, but wet wood can be more difficult to cut and can dull the chain faster.
• Who is responsible for chainsaw safety?
  • You are. Always follow safety guidelines and wear PPE.
• How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain?
  • Sharpen the chain whenever it starts to cut slowly or unevenly.
• What type of oil should I use in my gas chainsaw?
  • Use a two-stroke oil that is designed for chainsaws and mix it with gasoline according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• What is kickback, and how can I prevent it?
  • Kickback is a sudden, dangerous reaction where the chainsaw jumps back towards the user. Prevent it by maintaining a firm grip, avoiding cutting with the tip of the bar, and keeping the chain sharp.

By following these guidelines, you can choose the right chainsaw, use it safely, and keep it running well for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and take the time to learn the proper techniques before you start cutting.