Chainsaw

A chainsaw is a mechanical saw that is portable and cuts with a set of teeth attached to a rotating chain. It can be used for a number of activities, such as pruning, harvesting firewood, bucking, limbing, and tree felling. Some chainsaws can even be used to cut concrete or ice. Chainsaws are one of the more dangerous tools available for people to use, but dramatic improvements and various safety devices have made them much safer to use.

Brands

There are numerous brands and manufacturers of chainsaws to go with several different types. For starters, you have to decide if you want an electric or gas chainsaw. From there, there are several different sub-categories, such as cordless or corded, and so forth. The Husqvarna 240e is one of the best chainsaws on the market, and is incredibly easy to start and use. The John Deere CS36LE is another popular model. It is durable and offers well-shaped grip surfaces.

Purpose/How to

Before you begin using your chainsaw, make sure you read all instructions and safety precautions in the owner’s manual. Look over the area where you are going to work, and make sure you have enough room to do your job safely. Make sure the chainsaw is full with the correct fuel and oil, and perform a safety check before you start. Make sure you have other tools available, sure as a sledge hammer or axe, in case the limb you are cutting wedges and you cannot free it. When you have finished using the chainsaw, allow it to cool down before storing. You may also want to drain the oil and fuel out to prevent potential leakage. When storing, always make sure it is covered and out of the reach of children.

Safety Features & Guidelines

Luckily, chainsaws have improved drastically in the safety department in recent years. Chainsaws incorporate a number of different safety features. One of these features is the chain brake, which prevents movement of the saw’s cutting chain. It can be activated automatically by the force of a kickback event, or deliberately by the operator. The kickback is the leading cause of chainsaw injury, and the chain brake has significantly reduced the number of injuries caused by the kickback. Make sure you are wearing a long sleeve shirt and pants, hearing protection, eye goggles, and heavy gloves. You should also have a spotter who can look out for your safety while you cut. That way, if anything does go wrong, you have someone there to help you immediately.

Pros & Cons

There are two main types of chainsaw: electric and gas. Using an electric chainsaw over a gas chainsaw has its advantages and disadvantages.

Obviously electric chainsaws don’t require gas or oil, saving you money, and are often cheaper than gas chainsaws on the initial purchase. They tend to be very lightweight and thus easier to handle, and you can safely store or transport your electric chainsaw without worrying about an oil or gas leak. You will usually require a cord, however, which can be difficult if you don’t have an outlet near your work site. They usually aren’t as strong as gas chainsaws, and you have to avoid using them in wet weather to prevent the risk of electrocution. They are also less durable than gas chainsaws.