How to Use A Chainsaw? Step by Step Guide for Beginners

The use of a chainsaw involves a few steps.

• First of all, you place the chainsaw on the bottom, with the bar clear of any obstacles within a safe distance.
• Then engage the chain brake.
• After this, engage the security switch and instantaneously pull the trigger switch to start the chainsaw motor.
• Keep holding this trigger switch for continued operation.

Step by Step Guide to Using the Chainsaw:

Here are some steps that appropriately guide you for the use of a chainsaw:

STEP 1: Check for Safety

Familiarize yourself with your work area.

Remember of your “escape routes”— places you’ll safely move to once the tree begins to fall. Your tree could fall in an unexpected direction, so it’s best to be prepared for any possible incident. You can find a complete guide to cut a tree with the chainsaw for better understanding.

Chainsaws are called “widow-makers” permanently reason—they are often hazardous to work. Make sure to have an idea and understanding of the terrain you’re working on.

Also Read: Best Miter Saw

STEP 2: Tighten the Chainsaw

Check your saw to make sure that the chain has good tension.

You’ll have to tighten the chain to remove the risk of injury. You need to read your machine’s maintenance guide and educate yourself on instructions on tightening the chain.

You can use the wrench or screwdriver that comes with the machine for this step. A properly tightened chain should work smoothly when pulled but shouldn’t become disengaged from the support.

STEP 3: Check the Gas Level

If you’ve got a gas machine, check the gas levels and fill the tank before beginning. With a two-stroke engine, the gas and oil will likely require mixing within the tank.

You need to buy two-stroke oil and add it to the tank of your chainsaw at the manufacturer’s recommended ratio. Fill the chain lube reservoir with chain oil.

Also Read: Best Miter Saw Stand

STEP 4: Apply Chain Brake

Set your chainsaw flat on the surface, with the bottom down.

Push the chain brake forward until it locks. The chain brake is typically a separate lever located between the highest handle on the chainsaw and the blade.

It prevents the chain from spinning until you release the brake and apply the throttle.

STEP 5: Turning it On

If you’re using a gas-powered saw and there is a choke, turn it on. If there’s a primer button, push it 4 to 6 times to tug gas into the carburetor, then turn the power turn on.

If your chainsaw is electrical, all you need to do is press the safety switch and flip the power turn on.

STEP 6: Using the Chainsaw

For those gas chainsaws, put your right foot through the rear handle and put your force down on the handle to secure the saw. Use your left to carry the front handle firmly in place.

Together with your right, pull the starter rope out sharply to its full length. It’ll usually take four or five pulls to start the engine. Adjust the choke by dragging it out halfway if the engine is “firing” but not engaging.

STEP 7: Cutting

Even after the engine has started, the chain won’t be rotating.

You’ll have to press the trigger or throttle to make the chain move. First, position yourself properly with feet placed firmly and a robust grip on the saw.

Always cut with the saw off to the side or angled far away from you to reduce the chances of injury in the event of kickback.

STEP 8: Stopping the Chainsaw

When you’re done with cutting, release the chain brake and fully engage the throttle.

Lay the saw where you would like to chop. Don’t apply pressure to the chain, and the blade will draw the wood in.

Never, ever force it. If you’re employing a corded electric saw, always confirm you’re conscious of the cord and don’t let it get in your way.

STEP 9: Switching Off

To power off the saw, switch it to “off.” Let the saw calm down before storing it.

If you’re employing a gas saw, you would have to decide on what to do with any fuel left within the tank before you set it away.

If you’re planning on using the chainsaw again within the near future, it’s fine to leave leftover fuel within the tank for up to four weeks, but if you wait longer than that, the ethanol within the fuel could clog.

STEP 10: Storing the Chainsaw

Before storing the chainsaw, you need to empty it. To empty the fuel tank, you have to take the chainsaw to a well-ventilated place. Now you can drain any remaining fuel into a plastic container.

You’ll often eliminate leftover fuel at an area automotive shop but never pour this flammable substance into the soil, storm drain, or garbage, as these fuel materials are a risk.

No matter whether your chainsaw is gas or electric, store it during rain or with a bar cover to keep it safely packed away and to stop dust and debris from settling on the chain.

Safety Recommendations:

You should know all the controls and safety features. Always follow the security recommendations. You will need protective clothing as well, which include:

• Helmet
• Ear Protection
• Steel-Toe Boots
• Eye Protection
• Long Pants 
• Work Gloves

Before You Start:

Before you switch the engine on and begin cutting, you would have to make sure the chainsaw is in perfect condition.

Here’s a checklist that you simply should run through before operating your machine:

• All the parts are properly lubricated
• The chain has the right tension
• The teeth are as sharp as possible
• All safety gears and devices are in place
• There are not any loose bolts or parts 

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Must-Do Chainsaw Maintenance

To keep your chainsaw running well, check your machine’s handbook to find out about two best practices:

Tensioning:

Check the chain’s tension around the guide bar whenever you employ the saw, as improper tension will have an effect on the machine’s performance.

A sequence that’s too tight runs the danger of breaking, and one that’s too loose can come right off the bar and cause injury.

Your chainsaw should accompany a maintenance guide and a “wrench,” the combo screwdriver-wrench designed to adjust the chain’s strain.

Sharpening:

Many electric saws are self-sharpening. The chain should be sharpened on gas saws if it’s not drawing itself into the wood when making cuts. If it bounces around while you’re cutting, or if it seems to chop unequally or on an angle.

Sharpening could also be required every three to four tanks of gas, but exactly how often will depend upon the type of wood you’re cutting. Pay close attention to changes in performance to assist you in identifying when to sharpen.

Final Thoughts:

For using the chainsaw, you should know proper guidance and instruction. You should know the proper method of using the chainsaw step by step. This is an important step as it will prevent you from any harmful incident.