Chainsaws
But you already knew all that.
What you may not know are the following points.
What Bar Length Do You Need?
Bar lengths range from 30cm to 120cm (12 to 48inches) and are measured from the cutting tip to where the chain goes into the housing.
Bar lengths 30cm to 35cm (12 to 14inches) are suitable for cutting firewood, cutting small to medium branches, felling small trees, usually classed as lightweight infrequent work. And used mainly around the home garden
Bar lengths 40cm to 50cm (16 to 20inches) are suitable for cutting firewood, cutting small to medium branches, felling small to medium trees, usually classed as medium weight frequent work. And mainly used on farms, building/construction trades.
Note that the construction trades have switched to electric chainsaws for the ease of use.
Bar lengths above 50 cm (20inches) are suitable for cutting large logs for firewood, any branches, felling trees of all sizes, usually classed as heavyweight professional work and mainly used by professionals in all types of forestry work
But don't forget the longer the bar the heavier the chainsaw becomes.
(A note on what is usually meant by “bar lengths”, because it can be confusing: The bar is fitted inside the chainsaw, and the cutting length refers to the exposed length of the chain blade. The overall length means the total bar length, including the fitting piece inside the chainsaw.)
Gasoline chainsaws Versus Electric types?
Gasoline chainsaws
Pro:
They’re truly portable. They allow you freedom of movement without having to deal with cords and batteries, which can be a major issue in fieldwork.
They include the heavy duty chainsaws, which are sometimes the main tools in major felling and cutting operations. They are more robust than electric versions.
Con:
They’re heavier than electric chain saws, because of the fuel tank and engine construction, requiring the operator to deal with the extra weight.
The exhaust, muffler, becomes hot and if you are not careful can cause burns.
They emit fumes, which can be a problem in confined work areas.
Fuel and oil will need to be available to replenish the saw as necessary.
Electric chainsaws
Pro:
They're lighter than gasoline chainsaws, not having a fuel tank and lighter engine construction. The smaller electric chainsaws are ideal for most of your basic garden work, easy to use, and arguably easier for amateurs to learn how to use.
Con:
Electric chainsaws have obvious limitations. Not all sites have electric access.
Batteries can become a problem, requiring recharging or replacement at the wrong time, in the middle of a job.
Cords can be a problem in some situations, notably when dealing with large trees, or sites where extension cord length imposes limitations.
Cords are easily cut or damaged, so make sure you use an appropriate surge plug at the power source that will instantly isolate the supply if the cord is cut or damaged.
Chainsaw Articles
Chainsaw Safety
Pole Pruners - the electric version for reaching up into trees to cut off branches
Electric Chainsaws a few notes about this versatile garden tool
Cordless Chainsaws - some pro's and cons about cordless chainsaws and my recommendation
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