Chainsaws are versatile, hard-working tools that deserve our respect. Chainsaws can also be unwieldy and risky if not used safely and correctly. For beginners, safe and effective chain sawing must be your top priority.
A lot can go wrong when these powerful tools are not used correctly.
Take your chain saw experience from horror movie to knowledgeable master by following these five tips below:
1. Know Your Limits
Never use a chainsaw if you are not confident in your abilities.
If you feel the task is too much, contact a professional or more experienced operator to help you. Do not think that you can wing it when it comes to chainsaw jobs.
If you are a total novice, choose a lighter chainsaw that is suitable for minor cutting jobs until you have built up enough confidence to upgrade to a more powerful model.
2. Before Getting Started
Before you think about turning the engine on and starting a new backyard landscaping project, check that your chainsaw is in optimal condition.
All the parts must be adequately lubricated; the chain should have the correct tension and all safety equipment.
Check that there are no loose bolts or parts.
3. Sharpening Tips
Cutting through timber requires precision, which means that your chainsaw must be sharp all the time.
A sharp chainsaw is safer to use, faster, and will glide through timber like a hot knife through butter. Choose a chainsaw sharpener that is suited to your needs.
Even the best saw chains become dull over time, so be sure to check yours occasionally based on use.
Knowing when to sharpen your chainsaw is crucial. Some signs to look out for include the chain no longer eating into the wood, the chainsaw jumping, and if the cut noticeably only runs in one direction.
4. Basic Maintenance
Basic chainsaw maintenance includes regular cleaning, tensioning, lubrication, and thorough chain and bar inspections.
Keep the chain properly tensioned. An overtightened chain can overheat, bind, and stall the saw.
Lastly, ensure the air filter is clean. Contaminants can damage the piston rings and cause the engine to lose compression, resulting in a loss of power.
5. Common Starting Mistakes
Learn from the mistakes of others. Common mistakes to avoid when starting your chainsaw include avoiding drop starts. Drop starting is an advanced technique and should never be attempted by beginners. It increases your risk of injury.
Two of the safest positions to start your chainsaw in are on the ground, or with the saw between your legs.
Lastly, only add fresh or stabilized gasoline to gas-powered saws. If the gas is more than a month old, dump it and replace it with fresh gasoline.
Alternatively, use a stabilizer at each fill so you do not have to worry about oxidization.
To End
The only thing left is to select the right chainsaw.
Choose between a battery, gas, or electric-powered chainsaw – based on your needs. Your chosen chainsaw should align with your project goals and prioritize operational safety.
Follow these five tips above to guide you on becoming an experienced chainsaw operator.
