How to operate and maintain a chain saw

1. Gas vs. electric

Gas-powered chain saws and electric chain saws weigh almost the same. They look nearly identical and they have virtually the same controls that operate the blade and shut it down in an emergency.

2. Feeling sharp

The cutting action of a chain saw results from three things - the sharpness of the blade, the speed of the blade moving across the wood and the weight of the saw. An electric chain saw with a razor-sharp blade will outperform a gas-powered saw all day long, all other things being equal. A dull saw blade just spins, creating lots of friction, smoke and frustration.

3. Let it do the work

You can push down on a chain saw with your arms to have the blade bite more aggressively into the wood, but why not have the saw do that for you? This means a slightly heavier saw will allow gravity to pull the blade down into the wood. But there is a sweet spot. You don't want the saw to be so heavy you get fatigued.

4. Starting power

An electric chain saw is a great tool for around the home. You know it will operate as soon as you pull the trigger, assuming you have power at your home. Gas-powered saws can be tough to start if you don't maintain them. To minimize your work, use a high-quality chain saw sharpener to keep your blade in perfect condition. Don't cut close to the ground. Don't ever allow the blade to touch the ground, as the dirt and small rock particles will rapidly dull the blade. Brush off all dirt from logs and the bark to keep dirt from dulling a blade.

5. Oil is a must

Be sure to use electric chain-saw oil to keep the blade lubricated. This is critical. Monitor the oil reservoir on the saw every few minutes so you ensure it never runs dry. Fill it when it gets to the half-full point, as you need to make sure the blade gets oil at all times as you rotate the saw up and down as you cut.

6. Important reading

Above all, read the owner's manual. Read and understand all the safety warnings. Don't cut logs or trees that are wedged or in a bind. The weight of the log can close down on the blade, or the tree can shift as you cut it. Serious injury is always a possibility if you don't know how to use these powerful tools.

7. Protect yourself

Many safety improvements have been made with chain saws, both electric and gas-powered, but understand they still can hurt you in a fraction of a second. Wear all the recommended protective clothing, gloves, helmet and face shield when using a chain saw.