There is a lot you should know about how to use a chainsaw, especially if you have never used it before. Unlike other power-tools which involve potential risks to the operator.
However, when it comes to chainsaws the risk slightly more than one’s imagination. We all know chainsaws split wood at very high velocity, you may be using it to cut firewood or a new adventure to build a shelf for your home.
No matter the intentions behind purchasing a chainsaw, you should indefinitely know how to use one.
If you are looking to purchase a chainsaw you should check out this in-depth buying guide on the best budget chainsaw models. You will be surprised to know that operating a chainsaw is a skill that needs to be learned and can only be mastered with time.
That being said, in this guide, we will be going over all that you should know about how to use a chainsaw safely by taking the necessary precautions.
We will be covering all the basics, with a step to step guide on how you should go about it without putting yourself or others in harm’s way. Before you head further, we also have this extensive guide on the best gas chainsaw for the money in case you are looking for budget-friendly options.
Let’s start, shall we?
All the Precautionary Measures You Need to Take
Before we begin to guide you on how to use a chainsaw, the most important thing that you need to have is the personal protective equipment and being in a safe environment for your safety and of course others!
Protective Gear
Never think of using a chainsaw without personal protective equipment (PPE.) What qualifies as PPE when you have to go sawing?
- Protective Eye Wear
- Ear Protection
- Sturdy Boots
- Long-Sleeved Shirt
- Full-Length Pants
- Chainsaw Chaps
- Head Gear
- Gloves
Now that we have covered all the personal protective equipment you need; we will tell you why it is important. If you are thinking, you don’t necessarily need all these items, think again.
It doesn’t matter if you are only planning to saw a few small logs for firewood, you have to keep yourself protected because in case an accident occurs the carefree-attitude will be tragic.
Working in a Safe Environment
Not to be a complete buzzkill, before you head down to saw some wood. It is imperative to check how safe the environment is. Are there any exit routes when the trees fall once you cut them, and is there ample space for the tree to fall without damaging anything else?
You just have to be very mindful of your surroundings, and ask yourself if you are comfortable sawing a tree on your own, or do you need supervision if it’s your first-time sawing.
No matter what you decide in the end, just keep in mind that you will feel some first-time jitters, but rest assured if you thoroughly follow our step-by-step guide on how to use a chainsaw you will be fine!
Step by Step Guide: How to Use a Chainsaw
Step 1:
Once you have your protective gear on and have familiarized yourself with the work area. The first step is to check if the chain on the chainsaw has good tension. How to check if the chain is too loose?
It is pretty simple actually; all you have to do is tug the chain up from the guide bar and can easily disengage the chain links it means that it is too loose.
You will have to tighten the chain to prevent any possible unfortunate accidents.
How do you tighten the chain? Well, simply you will need a screwdriver and wrench, which usually comes with the machine. To understand how to accurately tighten the chain, go over the maintenance guide that comes with the chainsaw, and follow the instructions from there.
Ideally, a tightened-chain slightly gives-in when pulled, it never completely disengages from the guide, this is how will know the chain is tight enough to move on to the next step.
Step 2:
Now depending on the type of chainsaw you have, for instance, if you have a gas-powered chainsaw you will have to check the fuel-tank for gas-levels and if there is a need for a refill. Since most gas-powered machines have a two-cycle engine which requires a combination of gas and oil mixture in the tank.
We advise you to look at the manufacturer’s recommendation on the type of oil you should use. A good ratio of gas and oil is like 50:1 which is ideal for good engine-functioning.
Once you have checked the fuel levels, you should also fill the lube reservoir with chain oil which helps in lubricating the chain when it’s spinning around on the guide bar.
Step 3:
Time to get to the tricky steps, don’t panic though! Just read and follow the instructions and you will be good to go. Once you have done a quick-maintenance check like we had advised you to do above, it is time to get to one of the most important steps.
The startup process has a few steps involved. To start the chainsaw, you will have to set the machine flat on the ground with the button down. To lock the brake, you will have to push the chain brake forward for it to lock.
What is the purpose of the chain brake? A chain brake is a separate lever that is located between the top handle of the chainsaw and the brake.
It is what prevents the chain from spinning until the brake is released and when you apply the throttle. It is one of the most important steps and cannot be skipped even if you wanted to.
Step 4:
For an electrically-powered chainsaw, you will have to unlock the safety switch and then flip the power switch on the power. In all honesty, starting an electrically-powered chainsaw is easier than a gas-powered chainsaw.
Since it is more complicated to jump-start a gas-powered chainsaw there is an extra step that needs to be performed, below is a step for a gas-powered chainsaw. For an electrically-powered chainsaw, you can directly skip stepping 5.
Depending on if you are using a gas-powered chainsaw, you will have to turn the choke on. In case, the chainsaw comes with a primer button, pressing it 4 to 6 times will pull the gas in the carburetor after which you can switch on the chainsaw.
By placing your right foot through the back handle of the chainsaw and placing your weight down on the handle to nicely secure the saw.
With the help of your left hands, you will have to hold the front handle very firmly in place, and using your right hand you will have to pull out the starter rope. In 4 to 5 pulls, the engine will get a starter.
However, if you feel like the engine is not engaging, you will have to adjust the choke again by pulling only half the length.
Step 5:
Once you have successfully started the engine, it doesn’t mean that the chainsaw will start running. You will have to press the throttle for the chain to start spinning. By positioning yourself properly with a strong grip on the saw and feet firmly planted on the ground you can start the sawing.
A quick-tip will be to use the saw in an angled way to minimize potential injuries in case there is a kick-back.
Step 6:
The moment you are ready to saw, you will have to release the chain brake and will have to engage the throttle for full functionality. Place the saw where you want to cut, and it will do its job.
Remember, you don’t have to apply any pressure to cut the wood. The sharp-blades and the momentum will draw the wood in. Another thing you should also keep in mind is if you have an electrically-powered chainsaw make sure the cord doesn’t get in the way of the operations.
Step 7:
While you are sawing, don’t forget to keep the throttle engaged throughout the cut. Once, you are done only then you should release the throttle. To switch-off the chainsaw, you will only have to press the switch-off button. Wait for the machine to cool down before you put it back in storage.
Conclusion
We hope that this step-by-step guide on “how to use a chainsaw” was helpful and that you feel confident enough to use it on your own. If you get confused, we recommend you go over the steps once again and clear out any confusions you have.
Just make sure you follow all the steps in the exact order for a successful sewing experience. By the way, you should also check out this fantastic guide on the top-rated chainsaws to find one for yourself if you are thinking to purchase one or are looking for an upgrade.
Moreover, you should also be conscious of two-maintenance steps that are tensioning and sharpening. Make sure you take out the time for some maintenance of the chainsaw to prolong its life-span.
We are aware that you must have first-time jitters when you are about to start the sawing, but keep in mind that you have all the information you need to use this power-tool and that you are fully prepared!
