2016 Gamekeepers / Summer - Chainsaw Safety and Saw Choices

Sat. July 30 Chainsaw Job,
generated by downed pecan limb.

Except for the assignment of preparing firewood, many land managers do not spend much time using a chainsaw. Stacking a cord of firewood for winter is still a big chore, but electric log splitters have reduced the chainsaw workload. Picking up a chainsaw might only occur during certain activities like maintaining firebreaks, but after a weather event involving high wind or ice, everyone jumps back into high gear and sometimes safety is only a second thought.

            

A bow saw and an axe still have their place in every tool shed, but when it comes to doing a full day’s work of cutting wood, the chainsaw is your most valuable tool. Modern options included electric saws, but unless one is working very near to the house or barn, then electricity is not really an option. A gas powered two-cycle chainsaw is the most practical choice out there, and a pole-saw is the second most sought after tool when it comes to pruning overhead or hard to reach places.

            

Scott O'Quinn on the tractor, Julian Clark on the chainsaw

A good choice for moderate duty would be a chain saw with a 16 to 18-inch bar. Other options out there range from an 8-inch bar for something like limb pruning, all the way up to a professional grade saw with a 24-inch bar for cutting large trees. The weight of the medium-sized choice is another appealing feature, because it allows for longer use before one’s arms tire. The larger the saw, the greater the vibration absorbed, and older land managers always take care to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.

Glad to share my experiences with fellow Gamekeepers

“A typical woodsman hardhat will provide built-in protection for your scalp, eyes and ears,” said Scott O’Quinn. “The ear muffs are attached to the helmet and the two-position wire mesh face shield keeps unwanted sawdust and debris out of your face. Unlike wearing safety glasses that can fog up from warmth, the ventilation of the shield makes it my preferred choice. Chainsaw chaps are filled with material that is designed to bind up or bog down a moving chain, giving you a valuable moment of reaction time. The chaps fasten above the waistline and extend down the front of your legs apron-style. Always wear gloves to keep your hands protected from burns or small injuries like blistering.”    

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