| The modern chainsaw, an invaluable and convenient | | | | gas and electric chainsaws require bigger engines to |
| tool for any homeowner, is much smaller and lighter; a | | | | supply more power, and that, or a longer bar, will |
| far cry from its mammoth predecessor, which required | | | | increase the weight of your chainsaw. Your anticipated |
| two professional loggers to operate it. Not everyone | | | | job type will help you calculate the length of bar you |
| needs a chainsaw, but they are indispensable for tree | | | | need your chainsaw. Chain saws are available with |
| trimming and removal and for cutting firewood. | | | | bars ranging from 12 to 20 inches, and that length |
| Chainsaw manufacturers offer the home user | | | | dictates the maximum diameter that the saw can cut |
| numerous sizes and features, and a little advice can | | | | through in a single pass. However, if you anticipate |
| help you find the right tool for your purposes. | | | | cutting mostly smaller jobs, don't purchase a chainsaw |
| There are gasoline, electric, and battery powered | | | | with a longer bar simply to cut larger trees or branches |
| chainsaw engines. If you will be using your chainsaw in | | | | as the smaller saw will be able to accomplish the |
| remote locations without convenient access to | | | | same thing with two passes. |
| electricity, a gas chainsaw will be your best choice. | | | | Known as the world's most dangerous power tool, |
| Low power and the need for frequent recharging limits | | | | chainsaws also offer important safety features which |
| the functionality of battery chainsaws, but | | | | should be investigated and compared. Gas chainsaws |
| electrically-powered saws can be useful for | | | | have a greater potential for chainsaw kickback than |
| occasional, light jobs that offer easy access to a | | | | electric saws, which means they pose a greater risk |
| power source. | | | | to life and limb. Kickbacks happen when the end of the |
| The type of work you expect will determine your | | | | saw hits an obstruction and causes the saw's bar to |
| chainsaw power needs. Cutting softwoods such as | | | | jerk back toward the user. Modern chainsaws feature |
| pine or cedar requires less power than cutting maple, | | | | important safeguards such as kickback guards, low |
| ash, oak or other hardwoods. Another important | | | | kickback chains, hand guards, chain brakes, vibration |
| consideration is that a longer bar and more engine | | | | reduction systems, throttle lockouts, and chain catchers |
| power will increase the weight of your chainsaw. Both | | | | that work to protect the user from serious injuries. |