Four Common Chainsaw Questions Answered For First Time Buyers

Those who live in disaster-prone areas know how important an effective clean up campaign immediately afterwards is in relation to health and safety aspects. Did you know chainsaws play an important role in post-disaster clean up operations especially following hurricanes and tornadoes.

The trusty chainsaw is a "godsend" in these situations with trees down and houses unroofed or completely devastated. This article is not intended to inspire you to immediately rush out and buy a chainsaw today but to consider the possiblity and what you need to look for in a chainsaw. Here are four questions often asked about chainsaws from first time buyers.

Did You Know?

Chainsaws are responsible for at least 36,000 injuries a year. Yes, deaths occur each year relating to chainsaw accidents so complacency when using them is not a good idea. In fact, the chainsaw is regarded as the most dangerous power tool on the planet.

Selecting Your First Saw

1. If you only intend to use your machine spasmodically then think small, particularly if the intended work load is light. Talk to your chainsaw dealer about your requirements. Avoid over-capitalising; in other words, if you only intend on clearing brush then you are not going to need the biggest saw on the market.

2. Stick with the major brands. Stihl and Husqvarna are the manufacturing leaders and you would be hard pressed to go wrong selecting one of their products. Depending in which part of of the world you live, will have a big bearing on what you select. Husqvarna is more popular in some areas and Stihl in others. In fact, both have devoted "followers" so it may pay to get an unbiased opinion.

3. Gas or electric chainsaw? Good question and in the end it's a matter of preference. Gas has the advantage of cutting more quickly than an electric chainsaw and there is no chord to worry about. In using gas saws, less pressure will be required on the user because of their faster chain speeds. On the other hand, electric chainsaws are lighter and easier to handle. Gas machines are prone to be noisier and requiring regular tuning.

4. Safety is a big issue. Chain brakes are an obvious safety measure in relation to what is termed as kickback. A number of deaths that occur each year to chainsaw accidents result from kickback related incidents. Antivibration systems are almost a must on gas machines because of their heavier nature as opposed to the electric chainsaw. Safety gear such as eyewear and clothing are a must and some chainsaw models allow chain tension to be tightened without the use of tools.

Chainsaw Consideration

There is a lot to consider when choosing a chainsaw. If you live in a disaster prone area then you may want to consider having a saw in the tool shed. The irony is that despite it's "dangerous tool" tag, the chainsaw could very prove to be a life saver.

While Husqvarna and Stihl chainsaws are the most popular, don't limit your selection without at least checking out some of the other brands. Echo, Poulan, Homelite, McCullogh; there are plenty of choices. Still confused. Do a check online, particularly for forums involving chainsaw users, woodcutters and power tool users. You won't have any difficulty in getting answers to your questions there.

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