Barnacle Parp's CHAIN SAW GUIDE

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Whatever size bar you decide you need, be sure that your saw's engine has more than adequate power to operate it. In other words, look up the specifications for any saw you're considering. Find the bar lengths available for that saw. If you're buying anything larger than a mini-saw, get the bar length you want on a saw that can take a bar at least one size larger.

That is: If you want a 20-inch bar, don't buy a saw that can only take up to a 20inch bar; get one that can take a 25-inch or a 28-inch bar.

This is important for two reasons.

First, if your engine's power is more than adequate for the bar and chain you're using, you have an extra margin against strain and wear. And, second, if you later decide you need more reach, you can simply replace the original equipment with the next size bar and chain.

My own idea, for heavy use, is to get as large an engine as is practical and combine it with a medium-length cutting attachment. I use a saw that can take a 25inch bar but equip it with a 16-inch bar. I suggest that this configuration makes a very useful and versatile all-around chain saw.

HAZARDS

Many aspects of chain-saw work present potential threats to your health and safety. First is the obvious danger of the cutting attachment itself. It is meant to cut wood. It will also cut meat. When you operate a chain saw you must constantly be alert and take whatever precautions you can.

Kickback is the cause of 30 percent of all chain-saw injuries. It occurs when the chain, as it speeds around the upper part of the nose of the bar, comes into contact with something solid. When the chain is at the upper third of the nose, it can't cut efficiently and its movement forces the bar back and up, in the direction of the operator.

If you have to cut with the nose of the bar for any reason, be sure to start the cut with the lower part of the nose and be sure the saw is running at high speed as the chain touches the work. You should definitely avoid "boring" or otherwise using the nose of the bar before you are familiar with the operation of chain saws.

There are various anti-kickback devices available for many chain saws. Most of these devices can be back-fitted . . . in other words, if you own a McCulloc chain saw without a chain brake, you can take your saw to a McCulloch dealer and he can install a chain brake for you. This is true of most brands of chain saws, and most anti-kickback devices.

When you operate your chain saw, be alert for kickback at all times. Always cut with your left elbow locked, or with your arm as straight as possible. Cut only one log at a time. Take every precaution to be sure that the nose of your bar does not touch anything. Always cut as close to the engine end of the bar as you can. Use your saw's bumper spikes to grip the wood and provide pivot and balance for your saw.

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