Buying a Chainsaw: Consumer Tips
Chainsaws are available with electric or petrol engines. Electric saws are powered by regular household electricity. The advantage is that they do not require maintenance and are therefore always ready for use. However, their power is limited, and the working area is restricted by the cable. They are powerful enough for cutting firewood or light branch removal from the ground. Chainsaws with combustion engines require more maintenance but can be used anywhere. Battery-operated devices are also on the market, but they are of little significance because the power demand is simply too high. They can only be used for simple thinning, branch removal, or pruning fruit trees. Of the many chain types, only a few are suitable for private users: However, only original chains should be used, or when changing, only those that have been discussed with the specialist dealer beforehand. This is because the guide bar often needs to be replaced as well.
What should you consider when buying?
With a small electronic starter, you save yourself the sometimes long and tedious pulling of the ignition cord. While it is not completely eliminated, the kickback force is significantly reduced, and the joints and muscles are not as heavily strained. Special cutting sets have been developed to counteract the tremendous kickback force, which significantly reduce the risk of kickback. Extremely important for chainsaws are the front and rear hand guards. The claw stop is also an important safety feature. For transport, the chain guard is important. For an electric chainsaw, the handles should ideally be equipped with vibration dampers. This helps prevent circulation problems and fatigue during longer and unfamiliar tasks. To keep maintenance costs low, one should pay attention to the filter system. Several manufacturers install an additional filter before the actual filter, which can be easily and cheaply replaced, thus ensuring longer replacement intervals for the actual filter system.
What should be considered in handling and storage?
When working with a chainsaw, a helmet with face and hearing protection must be worn. This not only protects against falling branches but also protects the eyes from swirling dust particles and wood splinters. Furthermore, cut-resistant trousers and jackets as well as sturdy work gloves are mandatory. The lifespan of a chain is definitely shortened by dirt and grime. They act like sandpaper and dull the chain in no time. A rule of thumb is that a chain should be sharpened after three to four hours of use. Therefore, it is important to: regularly lubricate (no used oils, motor oils, or household oils), tension (pay attention to expansion in heat and contraction in cold), and sharpen (better leave this to a professional).
