Chainsaws & Cutting
Chainsaw Guide: Cut Smarter, Safer, and Cleaner
28
Sep
Sep
Chainsaw Guide: Cut Smarter, Safer, and Cleaner
From pruning limbs to preparing firewood, the right chainsaw turns hard work into a few clean cuts. This guide explains types, bar lengths, safety, and upkeep—so you’ll choose confidently and cut safely.
Quick links
Which chainsaw type fits your tasks?
Corded Electric
- Great for sheds, workshops, small gardens.
- Light weight, low noise, no refuelling.
- Limited by cable length—use outdoor-rated extension.
Cordless (Battery)
- True freedom around the garden.
- Choose higher Ah for longer runtimes.
- Often shares batteries with other tools.
Petrol
- Best power-to-weight for dense timber.
- Ideal for frequent firewood and bigger felling.
- Needs regular maintenance and fuel mix.
Bar length & cut capacity
6–10"
Light pruning & garden work
Light pruning & garden work
12–14"
Branches, small logs, DIY
Branches, small logs, DIY
16–18"
Firewood, medium trunks
Firewood, medium trunks
20"+
Heavy felling (experienced users)
Heavy felling (experienced users)
Rule of thumb: bar ≈ 1–2" longer than the log radius you plan to cut.
Safety essentials (don’t skip)
- PPE: helmet/visor or goggles, ear protection, gloves, boots; chainsaw chaps for heavy work.
- Check chain brake, chain tension and bar oil before each session.
- Two hands on the saw; stance offset; cut at waist height or below.
- Avoid tip contact to prevent kickback. Use the bumper spikes to bite and pivot.
- Never cut above shoulder height or from a ladder.
Cutting technique: 5 simple steps
- Inspect & prep. Remove stones, check for nails; plan your cut and escape route.
- Mark & support. Mark the cut; support the log to avoid pinching the bar.
- Let the chain work. Moderate pressure; keep revs steady and body centered.
- Mind the kerf. If the cut begins to close, stop and wedge or undercut.
- Finish safely. Release throttle, engage brake, place saw on stable ground.
Care & maintenance
Before use
- Top up bar & chain oil; verify chain tension.
- Check chain brake and trigger lockout.
- Inspect chain sharpness (it should “self-feed”).
After use
- Brush off chips; wipe bar groove and oil hole.
- Loosen chain slightly as the bar cools.
- Recharge/ventilate; store with scabbard.
Keep it sharp
- Touch-up file every tank/battery for straight, fast cuts.
- Replace dull or damaged chains; flip bar periodically.
- Use the right pitch/gauge for your model.
Handy accessories
- Spare chain and bar oil.
- Felling wedges & log stand for safer crosscuts.
- Sharpening kit or replacement chains.
- PPE bundle (helmet/visor, gloves, chaps, boots).
FAQ
How tight should the chain be?
It should snap back when pulled and the drive links should not leave the bar groove. Re-check tension once the bar warms up.
Why is my saw cutting in a curve?
One side of the chain is duller than the other or the bar rails are uneven. Sharpen evenly and flip the bar.
Electric vs petrol—what’s right for me?
For garden pruning and DIY firewood, cordless or corded models are quiet and clean. For frequent heavy work on dense hardwoods, petrol still wins on sustained power.
