TreeSurgery.com
There are many different makes (more than 25) and sizes of chainsaws and tree surgeons tend to prefer certain brands because they can vary enormously.
Pointers when buying a chainsaw to suit your firm.
1. Find out who your local distributors are - they generally stick to one brand and don't tend to deal in rival brands. Consequently, it might be advisable to buy their brand so that they can get parts quickly and do not have to go through another supplier.
2. You generally get what you pay for so do not be tempted to go for the cheaper option.
3. Be very wary of buying second hand as they can be unreliable and have faults that are not obvious to the naked eye. Furthermore, chainsaws are frequently stolen. Always check to see that the serial number has not been scratched off as chainsaws are traceable. Ask about the history of the saw and ask for the manual.
Potential tree surgeons should always check
a. chain catcher
b. the silencer
c. guide bar, drive sprocket and chain links
d. side plate and hand guards
e. anti vibration mounts
f. the on/off switch
g. chain brake
h. the throttle and dead mans handle
f. the spark arrester
g. whether it starts easily when it is cold
4. It is generally advisable to have chainsaws that have the power and bar size to cope with the jobs you have to contend with. NPTC courses and certificates give you the license to use a variety of chainsaws - for example there is no point having a giant chainsaw with a huge bar if you don't have the certificate to fell large trees and there is no point in having a top handled saw if you have not received training in operating chainsaws from a rope and harness. Insurers will not insure unless you have the appropriate certification.
Lightweight saws 8-14 inch bar - good for cutting small logs and small trees
Medium weight saws 14- 20 inch bar - good for frequent log cutting and medium trees
Heavyweight saws 20+ inch bars - not recommended for inexperienced users
Pros and cons of an electric saw
Pros Cons
No need for fuel Need nearby source of electricity
Runs quietly Limited bar length
Starts easily and instantly Potential shock hazard
Can be used indoors
Costs less
Vibrates less
No exhaust fumes
Maintenance of gasolene chainsaws
1. It is critical that a tree surgeon always gets the correct fuel mix for the chainsaw as you can do enormous damage to the engine if this is not done. It is often a very good idea to mix large batches of fuel so that one gets a nice even mix.
2. Whenever one refuels one must also top up the chain oil and use red grease for the tip of the bar. It is often worth buying chain oil in 25litre containers as it will save you money. You can work out whether your chain oil pump is working by seeing if it sprays oil out onto paper when you run it.
3. Regularly sharpen the chain and file bar chain etc when necessary. If you have a blunt chain it is not only frustratingly slow to cut wood but it wears out the saw. Always wear gloves sharpening your saw - I cut the tendon of my right middle finger when sharpening the saw!
4. If buying a new chainsaw, keep all the information as it gives great instruction on maintenance.
Every tree surgeon should have to do the NPTC CS 30 Maintain Chainsaw course which gives staff a good grounding in chainsaw maintenance.