Dandelion+Burdock

Chainsaws are powerful handheld tools primarily used for cutting through wood. They can be intimidating if you haven’t used one before. I was very nervous the first time, but with a little guidance and practice, it became a worthwhile skill to have.

Since my introduction to the chainsaw when I moved onto my homestead, I have been cutting my firewood and clearing small trees. While it’s not my favorite chore, it is empowering. However, before I even start cutting, I inevitably have to fiddle with the chain for an hour or more tightening or replacing it, refilling the gas and bar and chain oil, and then getting it to start up (I find they are very picky about the choke and gas primer). Not to mention, I am always nervous that I am going to slice my arm off or something horrible. I have heard so many stories! But I do believe they are essential for independent women who need to get that wood cut up.

Using a chainsaw isn’t inherently harder for women than for men. Success with a chainsaw comes down to skill, technique, and safety precautions rather than gender. I’m going to go out on a limb (pun intended) and say that I think women handle chainsaws more safely than men. It’s more about physical strength, technique, and familiarity with the tool than gender.

Although shorter chainsaws typically offer better maneuverability and are lighter, I have found that they can be harder to use than a longer saw. Longer chainsaws logically require more strength and control to manage, but the longer saw made cutting less strenuous and physically hard for me. So, the difficulty of using a chainsaw depends more on the user’s comfort and experience with the tool rather than its length alone.

Chainsaw options

Chainsaws come in various sizes and types, from small electric models for light-duty work to large gas-powered ones for heavy-duty tasks. Currently, I have two gas-powered chainsaws. My first chainsaw was a 16” Craftsman. Overall, the Craftsman is fairly light and starts easily. I used it solely for the first year, but I ran into issues when the logs got larger in diameter. The little saw just had a hard time with my little bicep muscles trying to push that thing into the wood. I purchased an 18” Husqvarna. It cuts quickly and smoothly and is less physically stressful for me. However, in my experience, this chainsaw is hard to start and floods easily. It runs pretty well once it is warmed up, though.

My sister purchased the EGO 16″ electric chainsaw. She says it is so light and easy to handle. It quickly starts with just the press of a button. The downside to an electric chainsaw is that cutting larger trees sucks the battery charge. But, for her, it’s worth it and she won’t return to a gas chainsaw. I think I might follow suit on my next saw purchase.

Starting a Chainsaw

I do not possess the strength to start a chainsaw by holding it in one hand and pulling the rip cord with the other. My technique is placing the saw on the ground, holding it in place with one foot, and then pulling the cord. Not very elegant, but it works. Always, always make sure the safety is on before starting a chainsaw. You need to gun the engine to get it going, so you never want to see that chain spinning until you are ready to cut.

Maintaining a chainsaw is crucial for its performance and longevity, but some maintenance is a bit beyond me, such as replacing spark plugs. There are small engine repair departments in some big-box stores like Runnings that will service your chainsaw and sharpen the chain. For my part, I try to maintain my saws to keep them in good shape and replace the chains myself.

Chainsaw Maintenance Tips

1. Regular Cleaning: After each use, remove debris, sawdust, and oil residue from the chainsaw’s exterior, chain, and guide bar.

2. Chain Tension: Check and adjust the chain tension before use to ensure it’s neither too loose nor too tight. A properly tensioned chain ensures safe and efficient cutting.

3. Bar and Chain Oil: Use the recommended bar and chain oil, and refill the saw before every use to reduce friction and prevent overheating.

4. Fuel Mixture: Use the correct fuel mixture (if applicable) and use fresh fuel to prevent engine issues. I recommend using premixed oil and fuel so you don’t have to worry about the correct ratios. It’s worth the extra cost in my mind.

5. Storage: Store the chainsaw in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Consider using a protective cover or case to prevent dust and debris buildup.

Chain Installation Tip

When installing a chainsaw chain, the cutting teeth on the chain should face forward, towards the front of the chainsaw. This ensures that the cutting action occurs in the correct direction when the chainsaw is in use. The sharp cutting edges of the teeth should be pointing towards the front of the guide bar, allowing them to make contact with the wood being cut as the chain rotates around the guide bar.

Safety Gear for Chainsaw Operation

1. Steel-Toed Boots: Boots with reinforced steel toes provide additional protection against falling objects and accidental contact with the chainsaw.

2. Safety Glasses or Goggles: It is important to wear safety glasses or goggles to protect against small debris and wood chips.

3. Gloves: Sturdy, non-slip gloves provide better grip and protect the hands from cuts and abrasions. I like these leather gloves by John Deere.

4. Long-Sleeved Shirt or Coat: Wearing long sleeves provides an extra layer of protection for arms.

5. Work Overalls: Heavy cotton overalls are a good option if you don’t have chainsaw chaps.

6. Hearing Protection: Chainsaws produce high noise levels, which can cause hearing damage over time. Earplugs or earmuffs help protect against this noise.

Lastly as an FYI, Chainsaw Accidents

Chainsaw accidents include:

1. Kickback: When the tip of the guide bar comes into contact with an object, causing the chainsaw to kick back towards the operator. This can happen if the chain is improperly tensioned or if the saw is used inappropriately.

2. Contact with Body Parts: Accidental contact between the chainsaw chain and the operator’s body, often due to improper handling or loss of control.

3. Falling Objects: Branches or debris falling from trees being cut can pose a risk to the operator or bystanders.

4. Loss of Control: Losing control of the chainsaw due to fatigue, improper technique, or using a chainsaw that is too powerful or too large for the operator to handle safely.

5. Inadequate Safety Gear: Not wearing proper personal protective equipment, such as chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection, can increase the risk of injury.

6. Equipment Malfunction: Mechanical failures or malfunctions of the chainsaw, such as chain derailment or engine problems, can lead to accidents if not addressed promptly.

7. Fatigue or Distraction: Operating a chainsaw while tired, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol increases the risk of accidents.

To prevent these accidents, it’s crucial to receive proper training, use the chainsaw according to manufacturer guidelines, wear appropriate safety gear, and maintain the chainsaw regularly. Always prioritize safety when using a chainsaw.

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