A Guide To Buying A Chainsaw
A guide to buying a chainsaw
As a homeowner, you probably have to deal with the odd tree that needs chopping or overgrown branches that demand trimming. Alternatively, you probably need to get some urgent carpentry work done yourself just before the holiday season. Having a chainsaw handy helps in these situations. Like with many other tools, chainsaws are available in so many types that it is often hard to understand which one is right for your needs.
It is, indeed, confusing for a first-time user to choose the correct chainsaw to buy for their needs. To help you out, here are all the questions you probably have while deciding to buy a chainsaw, answered.
What are the different types of chainsaws available?
- Gas-powered chainsaws are the most powerful type used for heavy cutting. Most professional chainsaw models that you buy run on gas.
- Corded electric chainsaws are powerful enough, but they are meant for lighter cutting as compared to their gas-fueled counterparts.
- Battery-operated electric chainsaws are lighter than their corded counterparts and are used for lighter gardening and carpentry chores.
- Electric loppers are chainsaws whose cutting apparatus is mounted away from the handgrips and shielded with safety jaws.
- Pole saws are chainsaws that may be mounted on a pole. These are good for cutting high branches without you having to climb a ladder. Pole saws are available in gas, electric corded, and electric cordless options.
What are the pros and cons of an electric chainsaw?
- An electric chainsaw is easy to start. It has a button or a knob that simply needs to be turned on or off.
- This type of chainsaw is lightweight and a great choice for anyone who does not have a lot of muscle power.
- They are also more affordable as compared to gas-powered chainsaws and are environment-friendly.
- On the flipside, electric chainsaws do not have as much power as the gas-fueled models. So, these types may only be used for lightweight cutting and trimming.
What are the pros and cons of a gas-powered chainsaw?
- Gas chainsaws are good for cutting large trees in a short span of time.
- They are powerful and need good muscle control on the part of the user.
- On the flip side, they take a lot of time to start and often require multiple tries before the engine gets going.
- Also, if you buy them, you will need to keep these chainsaws constantly fueled or they will not work.
- Gas chainsaws are extremely heavy as compared to their electric counterparts.
What are the factors to consider before you buy a chainsaw equipment for the first time?
- Before you buy a chainsaw, you need to consider what type of cutting you will use it for, that is, whether you need it for heavy cutting or lightweight work. This will determine the kind of chainsaw you purchase.
- Next, you need to know what kind of power you are looking for. For simple trimming and basic carpentry work, if you buy chainsaws that reach 30 CC, it’s sufficient. However, for heavy-duty cutting, look for a model that may reach 50cc.
- Look to buy chainsaw models with a low kickback chain to increase the safety of that device.
- The size of the chainsaw bar determines what kind of cutting it may do. A 14-inch to 16-inch bar is good for lightweight cutting, whereas an 18-inch to 20-inch bar is suited for heavy work.
What are some safety factors to keep in mind before using a chainsaw?
- Always use protective eyeglasses, heavy-work hand gloves, and steel boots when using a chainsaw.
- Never wear loose clothing when using a chainsaw.
- Never cut objects that are placed at a height above your chest.
- Do not start a chainsaw in the same spot where it was fueled as this may cause sparks and lead to a fire.
- Do not operate a chainsaw when drowsy, nauseous, or unwell.
- Read the chainsaw manual for any other precautionary tips that are specific to that particular model.
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