Chainsaws

The size of the chainsaw you need to cut down a tree depends on several factors, including the diameter of the tree, the type of wood, and your experience level. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right size:

Tree Diameter:

Small Trees (up to 12 inches in diameter): A chainsaw with a bar length of 12 to 14 inches should be sufficient.

Medium Trees (12 to 20 inches in diameter): A chainsaw with a bar length of 16 to 20 inches is recommended.

Large Trees (over 20 inches in diameter): A chainsaw with a bar length of 20 inches or more may be necessary.

A general guideline to follow is cut capacity is 2'' inches less than the tree diameter. Therefore, a 12" chainsaw can cut up to 10", a 20" chainsaw can cut up to 18", etc. 

Hardwoods (like oak, maple, or hickory) are more challenging to cut and may require a more powerful chainsaw compared to softwoods (like pine or spruce).

If you are a beginner, it is advisable to start with a smaller, more manageable chainsaw. Larger chainsaws can be more challenging to control and may pose a higher risk of injury.

Gas-powered chainsaws are generally more powerful and suitable for larger trees, while electric and battery-operated chainsaws are better for smaller tasks and lighter use.

Here are some common uses for chainsaws:

Tree Felling: Cutting down trees is one of the primary uses of chainsaws as they make precise cuts to safely bring down trees.

Limbing: After a tree is felled, chainsaws are used to remove the branches from the trunk. This process is known as limbing.

Bucking: Chainsaws are used to cut the felled tree into smaller, more manageable sections, a process known as bucking.

Pruning: Chainsaws can be used to trim and prune large branches from trees and shrubs, helping to maintain the health and appearance of the plants.

Firewood Cutting: Chainsaws are commonly used to cut logs into firewood by bucking the logs into shorter lengths and splitting them into smaller pieces.

Landscaping: Chainsaws are used in landscaping to clear brush, cut through thick vegetation, and remove unwanted trees or large shrubs.

Construction: Chainsaws are frequently used on residential job sites to cut wood for decks, fence posts, and boat docks.

Gas-Powered Chainsaws Advantages:
Powerful: Ideal for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees.

Mobile: No cord restrictions, suitable for remote locations.

Long Runtime: Runs as long as you have fuel.

Disadvantages:
Heavy, noisy, emissions, and high maintenance (requires fuel mixing and engine tuning).

Electric (Corded) Chainsaws Advantages:
Easy to Use: Lightweight and beginner-friendly.

Low Maintenance: Less upkeep required.

Quiet: Suitable for residential areas.

Affordable: Generally less expensive.

Disadvantages:
Limited Mobility: Restricted by power cord length.

Less Powerful: Best for light to medium tasks.

Battery-Operated (Cordless) Chainsaws Advantages:
Mobile: No cord restrictions.

Easy to Use: Lightweight and low maintenance.

Quiet: Suitable for residential use.

Eco-Friendly: No exhaust fumes.

Disadvantages:
Limited Power: Generally less powerful than gas models.

Battery Life: Limited runtime, additional batteries can be costly.

Higher Initial Cost: Batteries and chargers add to the expense.

Chain Brake: This is a mechanism that stops the rotation of the chain in case of kickback or other sudden movements. It can be activated manually or automatically by inertia.

Hand Guard: A hand guard is a protective barrier located in front of the handle, designed to shield the user's hand from debris and accidental contact with the chain.

Throttle Lockout: This feature prevents accidental engagement of the throttle trigger by requiring the user to press a separate lockout button or lever before activating the throttle.

Anti-Vibration System: Chainsaws are equipped with anti-vibration systems to reduce the amount of vibration transmitted to the user's hands and arms, minimizing fatigue and improving control.

Chain Catcher: A chain catcher is a metal hook or guard located beneath the guide bar, designed to stop the chain if it derails or breaks, preventing it from striking the user.

Trigger Lock: Some chainsaws have a trigger lock mechanism that prevents unintentional activation of the throttle, providing an additional layer of safety when the chainsaw is not in use.

Safety Chain: Special chains with reduced kickback characteristics are available, featuring additional safety features like small metal bumpers or depth gauges to reduce the risk of kickback.

Tool-less Tensioning: This method allows you to adjust the tension without the need for any additional tools. It typically involves the use of built-in mechanisms or features that can be easily manipulated by hand. Tool-less tensioning is designed to be quick and convenient, allowing for easy adjustments on the go. It is often preferred in situations where frequent tension adjustments are required or when tools may not be readily available.

Tooled Tensioning: This method requires the use of specific tools to adjust the tension. It typically involves the use of wrenches, screwdrivers, or other specialized tools to tighten or loosen the tensioning components. Tooled tensioning may provide more precise and controlled adjustments, especially in situations where specific tension levels need to be achieved. It is often preferred in applications where a higher level of accuracy is required or when the tension adjustments are less frequent. Most chainsaws with tooled tensioning come with a wrench which stores into the chainsaw (also referred to as onboard storage).

Yes, you do need oil for a chainsaw. Chainsaws require oil for two main purposes:

Bar and Chain Oil: This type of oil is specifically designed to lubricate the bar and chain of the chainsaw. It helps reduce friction between the chain and the bar, preventing overheating and wear. The bar and chain oil is typically thicker and stickier than regular engine oil, allowing it to adhere to the chain and bar better. It is important to use bar and chain oil to ensure smooth operation and prolong the life of the chain and bar.

Engine Oil (for Gas-Powered Chainsaws): Gas-powered chainsaws require engine oil to lubricate the internal components of the engine. The engine oil helps reduce friction and prevent damage to the engine's moving parts. The specific type and viscosity of engine oil required will depend on the manufacturer's recommendations, so it's important to consult the chainsaw's manual for the correct oil to use.