Field tips for preventing chain kickback on different wood types

[Alan]

You’re limbing a tough oak, and suddenly, the saw wants to swing back at you. Each wood type has its own kickback tendencies, some are straightforward, while others can be quite aggressive. What adjustments do you make in your techniques, chain angles, or cutting approaches depending on the wood to keep kickback from messing up your day?

 

[kevinj54]

I just kind of access every cut & make back cuts accordingly.

Almost every limb cut is different whether pinched on the ground or hanging in mid air.

Most important is to be sure them limbs cannot reach around and slap ya up side the head. In other words, stay clear whenever possible.

I have had a few real sketchy ones where I got the pole saw out so I could be back even farther.

 

[hunting1]

Really any wood, if cut incorrectly can cause kickback. Kickback is caused by the top quadrant of the nose of the bar contacting any object, wood or other. When that happens, not having a firm grip with both hands and being in the line of fire of the bar can spell trouble. Be aware of where you're sticking the nose of the bar all the time in any wood.

 

[Alan]

Really helpful thoughts from both of you. Being alert and maintaining some distance when situations seem off is crucial. Appreciate you sharing your experiences.

 

[Paul]

Totally agree
Know where that bar tip is and where it will be after the cut.
It matters not what kind of wood.
Branches are particularly dangerous. Some are hanging, some are sprung. Can make for a bad scene in a hurry.

 

[Leon Couper]

If you are starting to undercut a log the biggest problem is a lot of people start to high
up the log and the saw rides up the log and you will most likely wear it in the face or shoulder.

 

[Alan]

Totally, staying aware and cautious makes all the difference.

 

[hunting1]

Trying to cut something too close to an object, in this case a chainlink fence, with the nose of the bar can be a life changing mistake. Happens quick.

 

[Alan]

It all happens so quickly and it's really terrifying. One second you're good, then the saw's got you.