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Chainsaws: What’s Right for Beginners and Pros?

Robert — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 22:38:39 +0000

Depending on your needs, whether you’re a weekend DIY guy, or a professional, there’s a chainsaw that’s right for you. These are among the most versatile tools to have in your arsenal for outdoor landscaping and gardening work. The information below will help you gain some focus on the chainsaw that will best suit your requirements.

Chain Saws for Beginners to Pros

If you think chain saws are just for lumberjacks, think again. There in fact tons of different uses for chainsaws that makes them so handy there should be one in every shed. Likewise, there are so many different models available, that there is definitely one you can use without fear. The key is matching the right chain saw to the right job.

Types of Chain Saws:

Do you only have the need to turn to a chain saw every now and again? Then a simple consumer chain saw is right for you. Consumer chains saws combine some of the must have features of the pro models, but at a price an amateur user can live with. You won’t be taking one of these babies logging, but they more than adequate for occasional use.

One step up from the consumer chain saw model is the standard chain saw. These saws have a little more get up and go than the consumer models, but they are still reasonably priced and safe for a novice. If you live on a wooded lot and clear away a lot branches, this one might be right for you.

If cutting down lumber every day is in your future, then the professional model is the way to go. It doesn’t come cheap, but it can stand up to heavy use.

Chain Saw Brands of Choice:

Husqvarna brand chain saws are the go-to brand for occasional chain saw users. Their lightweight, battery or gas operated saws are just the ticket for those jobs that up now and then around the yard.

Stihl is another brand that novice users find easy to handle. These chain saws are reasonably priced and can handle a light to moderate workload.

However, Stihl also have a line of chain saws that are ideal for more frequent use and bigger jobs - in fact, Stihl makes chain saws you could use every day. If you’re not sure which Stihl model is right for you, be sure you to get some advice before you invest.

Before You Buy: The number one question to ask yourself before you buy a chain saw is just how much use do you think you’ll get out of it. For light use, the consumer chain saw is the best bet every time. For ultra heavy use, go pro.

With that question satisfied, all you have to do now is find a chain saw that is comfortable for you to hold. Chain saws come in all different sizes and weights, so get one you can handle comfortably and safely.

Greg Hansward publishes most often for http://www.insidewoodworking.com , a website with information about electric chain saw and firewood saws. One can find his work on electric chain saw and chain saws here.

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Review: Husqvarna 142 Chainsaw - 16 Inch Bar

Robert — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:54:36 +0000

The Husqvarna 142 chainsaw is one of the best choices for home owner type work in the suburban yard or small ranch or farm setting. It is not a professional level saw, and is intended for reliable and safe use by the ordinary consumer.

There are similar chainsaws to be had for less money. But, most of them are not up to the quality and ruggedness of the Husky 142. It’s actually built to the same general standards as Husqvarna’s professional saws.

Features:

Safety - Safer to use than cheaper saws with a double acting chain brake, right hand guard and chain catcher.

Ease of Use - For the home owner it’s easy to operate and the ergonomics are right with a slim body, high center of gravity and flat underside. Also has an angled front handle for a better grip and more natural position from which to work.

Powered Right (2.2 horsepower) - Not underpowered like the budget or homeowner specials for other brands you’ll see regularly at retail outlets.

Easy Starting - Very easy to start with it’s spring-assisted starter mechanism.

Light Weight - Light weight moving parts increase acceleration.

Low Vibration

Air Injection - Enables the saw to run stronger and longer between filter cleanings, with reduced wear and smoother operation.

Service and Parts - Easier to obtain than with Stihl.

Limitations: Not a professional saw. Not intended for heavier timber operations.

Bottom Line: This chainsaw is a wise choice for the home handyman (or lady) who demands something a cut above the cheaper underpowered, less rugged saws so often urged upon the unsuspecting consumer. In short, the Husqvarna 142 has more than enough power to handle the occasional jobs any homeowner would have in mind, and the ruggedness and durability to make it a keeper for years to come.

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Log Splitters - How to Use Them Correctly

Robert — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 17:28:31 +0000

If you need to use a log splitter, you need to think foremost about safety. While these are nifty, albeit expensive, tools, they are hardly a plaything. Below are listed eleven important safety tips that you should follow and keep in mind. By the way, did you know that you can actually use some log splitters to make furniture? Read on for more detailed information.

How to Properly Use a Log Splitter

If you are a person that is always cutting trees for firewood, then you will want to think about getting a log splitter. Log splitters are a very expensive machine that is often purchased when there is a lot of wood that needs to be cut. Wood splitters are most commonly used for firewood or logs for furniture making. In fact, you can buy one wherever equipment for logging is sold; as well as on the internet.

One of the best selling log splitters is a hydraulic log splitter. In fact, there are many benefits of hydraulic splitters over any other ones. Some of the benefits of wood splitters are that they are very easy to use; they have either a gasoline or diesel engine; which is what makes the machine fire up.

When it comes to the features of a hydraulic wood splitter, there are many to look for. In fact, one of the biggest features that people look at is the engine size; which ranges from 5-8 horsepower. Generally, any home wood splitter has a small engine that is commercially used. In most cases, it will have 10-25 tons of force when splitting wood as well as have a 2 stage oil pump.

For most people, the only purpose they have a log splitter is for cutting logs into firewood; however, the tree must first be cut down and de-limbed by a chainsaw. In fact, the process of making firewood with a splitter is much easier and faster than doing it by physical labor; as it would take hours and even days to complete the job.

One of the biggest things to think about when using a splitter is safety. In fact, there are many tips that should be followed; and those are:

1. Children should never be allowed to operate the machinery.

2. Always make sure there are no children present, as there can always be debris flying.

3. Always wear protective gear (steel-toe boots and safety glasses) as well as no loose clothing; as it could get tangled in the machinery.

4. Before using it, read all the directions and owner’s manual.

5. Make sure there is a safe perimeter around the machinery.

6. Don’t ever make any adjustments while the machine is running.

7. Never operate the machine during the evening or night; always during daylight.

8. Never be impaired when operation the machine; no drugs or alcohol.

9. Always use on a dry surface.

10. Do not put anything else in the cutter except for wood.

11. Always make sure the guards are in place.

On some occasions people have purchased wood splitters for the purpose of furniture making; which is possible. In fact, many splitters can be set up for log furniture making; however, a chainsaw will still be necessary among other tools. Some of the other tools you will need for making log furniture are different sized clamps, instructional videos and books, larger sized chisels, mallet, wood guides of various sizes and a tenon among other things.

Ken Morris repeatedly publishes detailed reports on ideas associated to log splitter hydraulic system. You can come across his contributions on hydraulic log splitter and log splitter hydraulic system here.

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Chainsaw Safety is Critical to Avoiding Injury

Robert — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:30:59 +0000

Did you know that a dull chainsaw can be dangerous? That’s why it’s critical that everyone using a chainsaw should understand chainsaw safety. Just like driving the message home in advertising is based on repetition, the same principal applies to chainsaws when it comes to their proper use. Using the right techniques for sharpening, handling and cleaning will help to leave you injury free. This article covers the highlights that you should keep in mind.

Important Chainsaw Safety

Chainsaw safety is extremely important, especially when you consider the importance of your extremities. The most important aspect of chainsaw safety is knowledge. You are doing great by reading this article, but it surely isn’t going to teach you everything you need to know. So, read this article and then go and read some more!

A great place to start on your quest of chainsaw knowledge is with an expert. Find a retail establishment that is experienced with chainsaw sales and pick their brains. They should be able to provide you with a lot of information, including proper handling, cleaning, and sharpening of the chainsaw. They are also going to be there to help you choose which chainsaw is right for you and your specific needs. Since there are several different sizes of chainsaws, it is imperative that you get one that is right for you.

Once you leave the store with your new chainsaw safely tucked in the trunk of your car, head home and read up on the manual. This is the best place to find information on chainsaw safety as it is specific to your product.

The safest use of a chainsaw is when it is completely sharpened. A dull saw is more dangerous to you than a sharp one. Whenever you are sharpening your saw, you should be wearing very thick gloves. To make this even safer, take it to a professional! Then you can be assured that your blade is as sharp as possible and you won’t be risking any of your fingers in the process.

Ultimately, the most important safety is awareness. You need to be aware of your chainsaw and your surroundings. You need to be in the right mental state as well. Make sure you are rested and not impaired by any alcohol or medications. You will be safest running your chainsaw when you are in the right state of mind.

Chainsaw safety is extremely important for you and anyone within your vicinity! Take your time to learn as much as you can about this machine in your hands. Utilize the expert at the store where you purchase your chainsaw and read the manual thoroughly. Take precautions to ensure that your chainsaw is always sharp and running properly. If you are unsure of this, then take it to a professional for sharpening and maintenance. Finally, always be aware of your surroundings, your physical strength, and your mental state. Follow these guidelines and you are certainly more likely to hold on to all of your limbs!

STIHL SHOP is a national chain of independent, locally owned specialist outdoor power equipment dealers including stihl chainsaws

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Chainsaws: Gas or Electric?

Robert — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:24:00 +0000

Electric chainsaws are no longer the weaklings seen in the past. However, there are some distinctions that remain, largely dictating that electrics are still a viable choice for the weekend do it yourself landscaper, wood cutter or gardener. Read on for some valuable pointers.

Electric Or Gas Powered Chainsaws - Which is Best For You?

You have two choices when choosing a chainsaw, gas or electric powered. Which one you choose will depend on your circumstance, the jobs you have to do, and of course, your preference.

When choosing between an electric or gas powered chainsaw think about where you live, and your landscaping. Do you live in a city with only a couple of small trees on your property? You will probably be better off purchasing an electric chainsaw. However, if you live in the country and are surrounded by trees you are more likely to have larger branches on the ground after a storm and they will be further from the house.

Should you wish to consider purchasing an electric, you can shop for electric chainsaws among a huge selection right here at ChainsawPower.Com.

When you purchase an electric chainsaw you always have to keep in mind where you are going to get your power from. You will be constrained to taking your saw no more than 100 feet from your power source, so if you live on three acres, you are not going to make it.

Think about the jobs you are going to be doing. Will you be doing heavy duty cutting of large branches, or cutting down trees? Are you looking for something to help prune a couple trees in your yard? These are the questions that will help you determine which chainsaw is right for you.

Both types of chainsaws have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are smaller in stature you may want to consider getting the electric chainsaw. It will be much lighter and more manageable. You also will not have to worry about lugging a gas can around, getting the gas/oil ratio correct. You will, on the other hand, have to worry about not cutting through the cord.

No matter which kind of chainsaw you ultimately decide upon, you must make sure to use safety equipment each and every time you use your saw. You also must make sure your chainsaw chain stays sharp. Using a dull chainsaw is the quickest way to have a chainsaw accident. It is imperative for safety’s sake to keep your chainsaw sharp, if you don’t know how to do it, take it to a professional to have it sharpened.

If you don’t know how to tell if your chainsaw is sharp stop by chainsaw sharpener information and find out the signs of a dull chainsaw. There you will find information on how to tell if your chainsaw chain is dull, how to sharpen it, and how to use a chainsaw sharpener

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Correct Use of a Log Splitter

Robert — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:15:34 +0000

When using a log splitter, safety is always a primary concern. Consequently, it’s imperative to observe some recommendations for safe and proper operation. First, it’s well to understand this piece of machinery and then how it should be properly employed to accomplish the log splitting task. We came across this article which nicely sums up what you need to know. Please read on.

How to Properly Use a Log Splitter

One of the biggest things to think about when using a splitter is safety. In fact, there are many tips that should be followed; and those are: 1. Children should never be allowed to operate the machinery. 2. Always make sure there are no children present, as there can always be debris flying. 3. Always wear protective gear (steel-toe boots and safety glasses) as well as no loose clothing; as it could get tangled in the machinery. 4. Before using it, read all the directions and owner’s manual. 5. Make sure there is a safe perimeter around the machinery. 6. Don’t ever make any adjustments while the machine is running. 7. Never operate the machine during the evening or night; always during daylight. 8. Never be impaired when operation the machine; no drugs or alcohol. 9. Always use on a dry surface. 10. Do not put anything else in the cutter except for wood. 11. Always make sure the guards are in place.

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A Chainsaw Sharpener Will Save You Money

Robert — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 16:09:20 +0000

It’s obvious that you can save time with a chainsaw. In addition, did you know that you can also save time and money with your chainsaw sharpener? So many people will buy a new chain or even a new chainsaw when their chain gets dull.

A chainsaw requires a sharp chain to produce great cuts. A dull chain will cause a chainsaw to produce cuttings that are not quality and can cause accidents. By keeping a sharp chain, you can avoid these problems.

Spot A Dull Chainsaw Chain

One of the ways that you can tell your chainsaw chain is getting dull is when using the chainsaw produces sawdust instead of wood chips. A chainsaw will also cut great without pushing from the user when the chainsaw chain is sharp. Therefore, if your chainsaw starts making dust or you begin pushing the chainsaw to finish your cut, your chainsaw chain is probably dull.

Avoid Unnecessary Trips To The Store

A chainsaw sharpener will save you the trip to the store to get a replacement chain. When you have your own chainsaw sharpener, all you have to do is use it and your chainsaw chain is ready to use. It is important that your chainsaw is durable and easy to use so look for these qualities when you want to purchase a chainsaw sharpener.

The Right Sharpener For Your Chainsaw

You can find chainsaw sharpeners that will accommodate the different chainsaw chains, such as the chipper, semi-chisel and full-chisel chains. Some chain sharpeners are made to be used with certain types of chains. You can find chainsaw sharpeners that are equipped with a hydraulic vise.

A hydraulic vise will shorten the time that it takes to sharpen chainsaw chains. Hydraulic vises can be adjusted to fit the size of the chainsaw chain that is being sharpened. Motorized chainsaw sharpeners come equipped with a fan cooling system. You can also get chainsaw sharpeners that can be mounted on the wall or a workbench.

Protect Yourself

When using a chainsaw chain sharpener, you should wear protective eyewear. It is important that you protect yourself form any flying particles that may be loosened during the sharpening process.

You can find a chainsaw sharpener that will suit your budget, space and needs. If your chainsaw sharpener is hand held or electric, you will find that your chainsaw sharpener will prevent you from any accidents that are caused from using a dull chainsaw chain.

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Electric Chainsaws Mean Peace in the Neighborhood

Robert — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 17:53:10 +0000

Think electric chainsaw if you live in a suburban setting and need the power and versatility of a chainsaw. For common yard work and gardening, a gas chainsaw behemoth is really not needed, makes far too much noise, and pollutes the air around you. On the other hand, an electric chainsaw avoids those drawbacks. At one time they were thought to be under powered. But, that’s been overcome. Read on for more support for the proposition that an electric chainsaw can help maintain peace in your neighborhood.

The Quiet Electric Chainsaw

Electric chainsaws are perfect for people who take a pride in their garden. These chainsaws are a great alternative to gasoline buzz-bombs for most household tasks - just plug in and go. No trouble getting it started, no need to lug around mixed gasoline, dry and clean or change fouled plugs or breathe that 2-cycle engine exhaust. They are lighter in weight than gas-powered saws. It means that you can handle a saw much more easily, especially if you are of a slight frame.

Power is measured in amps so that the higher the amps used, the higher the power and are the only type that can be used safely indoors, you know for instance you may want to try your hand at ice sculpture. However you shouldn’t use an electric chainsaw in wet weather or more than 100 feet from an outlet.

Electric chainsaws are relativity quiet compared to their noisy gas-powered brothers. They are also easy to start since they start instantly, no more pulling on the start cord over and over again. One thing to keep in mind however, is to make sure that you are near an outlet or generator and that you have plenty of extension chord. Then there’s the cord itself: always ready to get into a bind, snag on every stray limb until it manages to find its way into a blade, but hopefully you’ll be more careful and not let that happen.

If weight and exhaust issues concern you then these chainsaws are preferred over gas powered saws. Gas saws are sometimes used for large sculptures where more power and a longer bar on the saw are useful such as wood carving. The electric version however are usually light and less powerful since they have a smaller motor.

If noise and gas pollution are important to you (it may be important to your neighbors as well), and you don’t require a lot of power, then an electric chainsaw might be just what you need.

http://www.my-chainsaw-4u.com/contact/contact.html

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Tips on Measuring a Chainsaw Blade and Chain

Robert — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:35:51 +0000

The chainsaw chain is strong enough to cut through wood easily. It must be maintained with regularly oiling. A chain replacement part should be kept on hand so that when the chainsaw chain needs replacing, you have one ready. The chainsaw chain is a versatile device that can be customized to work on a smaller or larger tool. Homeowners, hobbyists and industrial users all appreciate the design and usability of chainsaw chains.

Knowing how to perform a correct replacement of the chain is vital to chainsaw safety and efficient operation of your chainsaw. Read on for some valuable tips on how to go about measuring correctly when replacing a chainsaw chain.

How Do You Measure a Chainsaw Blade and Chain?

At some point, you will likely feel it is necessary to replace the chain from your well-used chainsaw and it will be important that you know both the length of your chainsaw blade as well as the length and type of chain you will need. Looking at charts can get confusing but it really isn’t that hard once you know what to look for in determining the length of both the chainsaw blade and chain.

The length of the chain will be determined by the length of your chainsaw bar. Some companies actually make this easy for you by including the bar size as part of the model number. Oregon chainsaws do this for you with the length of the bar as the first two numbers of the 10-digit number stamped on the blade at the end nearest the motor.

But if your saw does not conveniently help you determine the length of the blade or the saw, here’s how you can figure it out for yourself.

What’s The Best Way To Measure A Chain Saw Blade?

Measuring a chainsaw blade is actually quite simple. Just measure the blade from where the bar comes out of the casing, all the way to the end of the bar. No need to measure around the perimeter.

Blade and bar are two terms that are both used to indicate the same item. This is the blade that extends from the casing of the motor and carries the chain which is what does the sawing for you.

Chainsaw blades are measured in two-inch increments. The most popular sizes are 16, 18 and 20 inches, although you may find some saws with blades ranging from 10 inches to 42 inches in length. If you don’t think your blade ends in an even number, round up to the nearest measurement.

Measuring A Chainsaw Chain

The way to measure the chain on a chainsaw involves knowing the pitch of the chain as well as the number of drive links.

A drive link is simply a tooth on the chain and your chain’s length is determined by the number of drive links (or teeth). The pitch of the chain also affects the size of the drive links.

The pitch of a chain is the size of the chain. This is the distance between any three rivets, then divided by two. Your chain pitch is important because it must match the pitch of the drive sprocket and sometimes the bar nose sprocket. The pitch should be stamped on the drive link.

As an example, a 1/4″ pitch chain might have 52 drive links and be 2.17 feet in length, while a 3/8″ pitch with 52 drive links would be 3.18 feet in length. So the pitch affects the drive link size which affects your blade’s length.

If you have any questions, the manufacturer of your chainsaw or anyone who makes chains should be happy to help you figure out what you need to know.

But if you know what size chain saw chain or chainsaw blade you have and are ready to find a replacement, check out the great selection and good prices at ChainsawDeals.com

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Homelite Chainsaws for the DIY Guy

Robert — Thu, 29 May 2008 15:28:08 +0000

Homelite Chainsaws have been developed specifically with the do-it-yourselfer in mind. Basically, they are simple for the weekend backyard denizen to operate. Homelite chainsaws take some of the grunt out of yard work. They have a reputation for reliability.

Why Choose a Homelite Chainsaw?

For starters, Homelite is a reliable company with a strong history. This company began in 1921 when Charles H. Ferguson founded the Home Electric Lighting Company in Port Chester, New York. It was later renamed Homelite and made its first electric chainsaw in 1946. A few years later, in 1949, it manufactured a one-man chainsaw and from then on, this company proved itself as a leader in the power equipment industry. But they never stopped improving their line. In 1963, they introduced a lightweight chainsaw that weighed only twelve pounds. Homelite understood the need for a product line that would be easy to use and efficient. Their compact models offer today’s homeowners power for their backyard projects at a price they can afford. Buying a Homelite chainsaw is a solid investment backed by this company’s reputation and skill in manufacturing a line of tried and true products.

Let’s Look at Homelite Chainsaws

Homelite has many models of chainsaws to choose, each with special features for particular types of work. Before being dazzled by their product line, determine your own personal need for a chainsaw. Homeowners won’t need the most expensive professional models, which may be too cumbersome and awkward for ordinary backyard use. Homelite specifically has a line of chainsaws geared to do-it-yourselfers, and the features of these models may be exactly what you need. For the average homeowner, the chainsaw bar lengths are 14, 16, 18 or 20 inches. To help you understand what that means, a 14 inch bar can cut through twice its length or 28 inches. Once again, you need to decide what you will be using the saw for before making your purchase.

Chainsaw Safety

Homelite also stresses safety when using their chainsaws. Only use this machine while wearing heavy work gloves, as well as eye and ear protection. The Homelite chainsaws have safety features, like cut-resistant “chaps”, which have fibers that release at the saw’s impact. This is designed to prevent the skin getting cut. Most do-it-yourselfers prefer the Homelite Ranger model with a 16 inch chainsaw bar. It’s powerful enough to take down a small tree and compact enough for regular yard work.

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Chainsaws: What’s Right for Beginners and Pros?

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