You need to fell a tree without having to call and wait for a lumberjack. You plan on limbing a tree fallen in your backyard. You need to stock up on kindling for the winter. Don’t worry. All you need is a chainsaw – a handy, easy-to-use, and easy-to-maintain machine that will definitely make your toolkit complete.

The chainsaw is a mechanical and portable saw that cuts with a sharp set of teeth attached to a rotating chain that runs along the guide bar.

Chainsaws were first developed in Germany to cut bones, mainly the edges of teeth. They have gone through various technological advances to become multiutility handheld devices.

Operating a chainsaw

The operation of a chainsaw for felling a tree involves three basic tasks: limbing, bucking, and felling. Limbing involves cutting off the branches of an already felled tree. Bucking is the lengthwise cutting of the trunk of a felled tree. Felling is the cutting of an upright tree in a controlled manner. All these tasks can be easily done with a little practice. Make sure you buy chainsaws that can perform all three tasks with ease.

Engine types

When you buy chainsaws, you can choose between a two-stroke engine or an electric motor chainsaw. Both are equally good and cost-effective. Electrical motors are best for home use, while two-stroke engines are preferred for heavy-duty lumbering.

Safety

There are a number of safety features incorporated to ensure that the operator is not harmed while using the chainsaw. Chain brake, chain catcher, rear handle guard, and safety links within the chain itself ensure maximum protection. Be sure to check out the safety features when you buy a chainsaw.

Maintenance

Two-stroke models require oil in the fuel as a lubricant, whereas the electrical ones do not. Separate chain oil or bar oil to the bar and chain is used in all types of chainsaws. Chain teeth must be kept sharp to get the best efficiency. The air intake filter needs to be cleaned from time to time to prevent clogging. When buying chainsaws, be sure to keep in mind factors like frequency of use and ease of maintenance.

Safety precautions

As the saying goes, it is always better to be safe than sorry. As is the case with any machine, taking proper precautions helps not only in getting good results but also can avoid unnecessary accidents from happening. So first, after you buy a chainsaw, read the manual and instructions completely before starting to use it. Here are a few tips for first timers who plan on buying and using chainsaws.

-Put on a hard hat, protective goggles, ear plugs, leather gloves and hard sole shoes. All these go a long way in safeguarding you while handling a chainsaw
-The engine should be switched off and let to cool before refueling. Don’t smoke while refueling
-Carry the saw only after shutting off the engine
-Avoid contact with water and moisture while the engine is running
-Always have someone nearby while operating the chainsaw
-Keep a first-aid kit at hand
-Keep out of reach of children

Chainsaw brands

Stihl and Husqvarna are the leading chainsaw brands. Echo and McCulloch are also well-known for their chainsaws.

Specifications to consider when you buy chainsaws include low profile cutters, semi-chisel cutters, full-chisel cutters, square-chisel cutters; they are different types of cutter teeth. Also, full skip saw chain, semi skip saw chain, square ground saw chain and ripping saw chain are some of the variations available in different models.

Starting from just over $170, you can choose from a wide range catering to different requirements of functionality, budget, size, and power. This allows for a variety of products to choose from depending on the requirement. So what are you waiting for? Make your tool kit complete with a brand new chainsaw now!