Landscape Equipment - Chainsaws
About Chainsaws
Introduction
When it comes to cutting wood, the chainsaw is the most efficient and productive portable machine which has proven to be an indispensable landscaping tool. Whether you want to remove a tree that is unhealthy, unsafe or unnecessarily occupying space, or you just want to chop up firewood or a wooden fence, chainsaws are your best bet. Your local chainsaw dealer will advise you on which chainsaw suits your needs, for example if you need a handheld gasoline chainsaw versus an electric one, but before you set off to purchase this landscaping tool here are a few helpful hints to consider:
- Bar Length: Opt for a chainsaw with a bar length between 16 and 18 inches. The shorter the bar, the easier and safer the chainsaw is to manage
- Chain type: Make sure to choose the right chain for your saw then learn how to sharpen and maintain it
- Horsepower: It is advisable to use a chainsaw with a power head rated at 3.8 cubic inches or less
- Safety features: The chain brake, throttle safety latch and guard links on the chain shown in the illustration to the right are all vital safety features your chainsaw should have
- After sales service: To save yourself from future hassles, make sure your chainsaw dealer can service your machine
Despite a lot of safety improvements, chainsaws can be dangerous and cause you injuries while using them. The most frequent accidents are caused by kickbacks. A kickback occurs when the chainsaw is unexpectedly thrown violently back towards the operator. The reason why this happens is because the chain tooth near the bar tip cuts into the wood but without actually cutting through it and in turn forces the chain to stop moving. Remember to always keep a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands, keep your chain sharp, and never cut above shoulder height. The risks associated with using a chainsaw means that personal protective equipment is required for the head, eyes, ears, face, hands, legs and feet.
- Protecting your head, eyes and ears: You can find a specialized hard hat which comes with a screen face shield and earmuffs offering the best protection from particles getting in your eyes and from losing your hearing
- Protect your hands: You should wear gloves or mittens when operating a chainsaw
- Protect your legs: Leg injuries account for just about 40% of all chainsaw injuries so it’s essential to wear protective pants or leggings
- Protect your feet: Chainsaw protective boots or above-the-ankle leather work boots are a must to guard your feet
After you have purchased your chainsaw as well as your protective gear, you are then ready to start chopping away. Practice first with small trees less than 8 inches thick (in diameter) or perhaps branches just so you get the hang of it and become familiar with your chainsaw and its parts. When you have become skilled enough then you will be able to drop a tree safely in your desired direction.
