Chainsaw training and learning tips

[Alan]

Remember the first time you picked up a chainsaw? It’s a bit of a wake-up call, isn’t it? You quickly realize there’s a lot more to it than just pulling the trigger. As you’ve spent time with it, you’ve probably picked up some handy tricks, gained confidence, and discovered what really makes a difference in your technique.

So, how did you improve your chainsaw skills? What nuggets of wisdom would you share with those just starting their journey?

 

[Woody_A]

Yeah, so the first time I used a chainsaw was to cut some wood at home - the main thing I learned was to keep the blade sharp! It makes the work so much easier.

 

[LogLife]

I first used a chainsaw while helping my neighbor after a storm. I was scared, but after some time I realized that taking care of the saw keeping the blade sharp, the bar clean, and using fresh gas makes the tool safer and better. My biggest suggestion is to not force the saw to cut through things quicker, let it cut at its own speed.

 

[Cuts&Circuits]

I began by clearing bushes on my land, and at the start, I assumed it was all related to power. Learned that keeping the chain tight and letting the thing do its job makes it far easier.

 

[hunting1]

My biggest suggestion is to not force the saw to cut through things quicker, let it cut at its own speed.

This right here. I see so many saw users stalling their chain usually by socking the dogs in and cranking on the handle too much. Cutting is a balance between chain speed and motor load.

 

[Alan]

Totally agree. It’s really about letting the saw take the lead instead of forcing it to work.

 

[STIHLTECH]

In the shop, we dress bars on a machine like a tabletop belt and disc sander.
You can tell the folks with a sharp chain. The bar will only take a couple passes to even the rails.
The ones using the dogs to compensate for a dull chain will have a spot about 3 inches from the motor that will take a lot of passes to even the rails. After enough time, the bar is shot in that spot only. No amount of oil will compensate.
Wears out a bar way before it's time

 

[Alan]

Great point again. It's crazy how a chain can mess up a bar in just one place. Good call to keep that chain sharp

 

[madpogue]

My biggest suggestion is to not force the saw to cut through things quicker, let it cut at its own speed.

And to recognize when it is NOT "cutting at its own speed". That's your sign - dull chain, loose chain, too hot, oil issue, whatever.

 

[Alan]

Yep when it stops cutting smoothly, you know something’s wrong. That slight change in how it feels gives everything away.