Cutting Up a Fallen Tree – Chain Saw Use and Safety Precautions

The chain saw is among the most versatile tools every man should own. It is the ideal piece of equipment for cutting large branches and fallen trees. However, owning one is just the beginning. In order to use it safely, you need to first figure out how to start operating with it and for which particular purposes to use it. In today’s blog post we’ll walk you through the process of cutting up a large fallen tree. Now let’s talk about some techniques regarding how to remove the branches and how to cut up the trunk.

The most common and natural-feeling way is cutting with the chain on the bottom of the bar. When doing this, make sure to maintain a firm grip as the saw will slightly pull you. If you want to cut from the underside of a branch, you will need to cut with the top of the bar. At first this might seem a little unnerving as the saw pushes toward you, however, there is not much to worry about – it is safe and you will be alright provided that you follow the precautions and are well braced.

But still, there is a spot on the bar that you should be very careful with and should avoid – the kickback zone. This is actually the top half of the bar’s tip. It is of the utmost importance to pay attention to this as if the kickback zone comes in contact with something while the chain is moving, the chain saw will kick up and back toward you. This, among some others, is one of the biggest reasons why the chain saws of today come with a chain brake which is designed with the sole purpose of stopping the chain in case a kickback occurs.

Among the most common injuries that are caused by a chain saw’s improper operation are injuries to the left arm and the thigh, but usually these can be eliminated with just a few simple precautions. While you are cutting, make sure to always wrap the thumb of your left hand around the front handle in order to ensure that the saw will be under control if in worst case scenario there is a kickback.

Also, when you need to move from one place to another all while the saw is running, always remove your right hand from the back handle and make sure to carry the saw at your side with your left hand holding the front handle. Even if you are only moving to the next branch. In this case, even if you stumble or trip, there’s no way that the saw’s engine will accelerate and start the chain spinning.