How to Use a Chainsaw | Chainsaw 101

Big thank you to Stihl for sponsoring this video bit.ly/2tu7bJe
Parts of a chainsaw - 0:37
Needed Fluids - 1:55
PPE - 3:07
Kickback - 4:33
Starting a Saw - 6:10
Putting on, Tensioning, Removing the Chain - 7:42
Picking Out the Right Chainsaw - 9: 38
Making Safe Cuts with a Chainsaw - 11:03
Sharpening a Chainsaw - 13:02
Storing a Saw - 14:09
Battery Operated Chainsaws - 14:53
The best way to prevent injuries with any tool is to first understand it and the potential risks. In this video I try and cover all the chainsaw basics from what each part of the machine is called, to how to start it, how to change out the blade, and how to safely cut with it. Depending on which chainsaw you get, things might vary slightly so always read the instruction manual. Also, even with full PPE on, instead of having a pony tail, it is best if you tie up hair completely.
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[@AprilWilkerson]

Parts of a Chainsaw - 0:37 | Needed Fluids - 1:55 | PPE - 3:07 | Kickback - 4:33 | Starting a Saw - 6:10 | Putting on, Tensioning, Removing the Chain - 7:42 | Picking Out the Right Chainsaw - 9: 38 | Making Safe Cuts with a Chainsaw - 11:03 | Sharpening a Chainsaw - 13:02 | Storing a Saw - 14:09 | Battery Operated Chainsaws - 14:53 The best way to prevent injuries with any tool is to first understand it and the potential risks. In this video I try and cover all the chainsaw basics from what each part of the machine is called, to how to start it, how to change out the blade, and how to safely cut with it. Depending on which chainsaw you get, things might vary slightly so always read the instruction manual. Also, even with full PPE on, instead of having a pony tail, it is best if you tie up hair completely.

[@redhauscreator146]

What model was the Stihl chainsaw? It looks very user fiendly.

[@rickovsky980]

Excellent idea for the time breakdown! It's helps me with my time breakdown yo ;-)

[@rafaelb.m8114]

Excellent video happy new year 2020

[@chrishadjipetris6059]

One important thing you didn't mentioned about safety, is that you shouldn't be approached by other people, or pets while using a chainsaw ( a common mistake made by parents who teach their kids how to use a chainsaw )

[@JimmyDisabledPrepper]

I think you would like being on a Hotshot crew. There are some differences in the way they are used & maintained in Firefighting...

[@G0lfFish]

A cheat for us old guys: I stop sawing about every 45 minutes and spend 10 minutes hand sharpening the chain with a pair of files. It's not so much that the teeth are dull, but the 10 minute break prevents fatigue. The added benefit is that I'm always working with a really sharp chain -- makes the cutting easier and faster.

[@AprilWilkerson]

Great tips!

[@rickovsky980]

Yes, sharp teeth are definitely where it's at! I've found that using the same chain over and over, without sharpening... and for a lot of cutting... yeah! It gets a little less fun and more like WORK, for some reason!

[@haqvor]

As a rule I sharpen every time I fill up fuel. Working with a dull chain is frustrating, makes you work harder and is less safe.

[@markrhodes9632]

@@haqvor Thats great advice!

[@pcicchin]

Another "cheat" : don't fill the fuel as full as the oil. This makes sure you run out of gas before oil.

[@nakamakai5553]

I've been using a saw for 53 years, and this is a wonderful walk through all the safety concerns. Well done. If you save even one person from a bad day, good job.

[@carolynstreet5325]

Great informative video. My husband just bought me the Stihl MSA200 battery saw and he recommended I watch this video before using it. I appreciate what you said about the battery saws being better for those with less upper body strength. I am an active 67 y.o. woman, but my upper body strength isn't what it used to be. Thank you!

[@AprilWilkerson]

So glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and have fun with your saw

[@BrianJamesWessel]

Well done April! I've been using a chainsaw since I was 14 on my Grandfather's farm...and still use them often today. Although it isn't my career, I actually have a 'cutter's license'. My Gramps always warned when I started using these amazing tools that they are truly 'the most dangerous tool you will ever use...'bar' none'...and the scary part is some little old lady/man could go buy one and cause serious damage to themselves or others. Your video presentation was very comprehensive and useful to the beginner...and a reminder for any experienced user about the basics of operation and safety. Keep up the good work....I've been watching your videos for a few years now and find most of them entertaining and informative!

[@robinferretti9191]

Just bought my first chainsaw, a small one, and feel so much more confident after watching your video. I've watched several and yours was the best for me. You gave easy to follow guidelines. Using it mostly for downed branches after storms. Robin Marie

[@danhiggins5393]

Don’t be fooled by the size. The smaller saws are more likely to kickback than the big heavy ones. Keep a firm grip and keep the tip from touching a branch.

[@originalfallinggirl]

What color did you buy?

[@tmackie1694]

That STIHL showroom is like waking up in a wonderful dream in which I say, “I’ll take one of everything!”

[@kajcolum1254]

Hi April, I have been using chainsaws for over 40 years, both professionally and around the farm and think you have provided a really good overview in this video. The only point I would add is that; 2 hands on the saw always, you should never become overly confident or complacent with the saw ( I almost lost a leg that way 20 years ago ). Chainsaws are not just a hand tool, they are a dangerous portable machine, a little fear and awe is a good safety. It is true that pretty much anyone can learn to operate a saw, I believe all new users should take an operator's course and most areas provide this course. Thank you for your videos, I really enjoy them and always learn something.

[@tonyburelle6633]

This is an excellent primer, I've been using saws for fifty years, and I've done and still do most of the wrong things you highlighted, learning about them in a forum like this is an excellent idea, with ALL the mistakes I've made, I think the not using hearing protection has had the longest lasting effect, thanks for sharing this

[@wildindigomoon2344]

Thank you for putting together this video. I enjoyed it and feel it covered all the aspects. I live on 40acres off grid on a lot that hasn’t been logged in 50 years, so it gets pretty thick out here. I have so far for the last 4 years gotten away with not having to use those damn scary chainsaws but the time has come for me to finally suck it up and use it. Your confidence gives me faith. 🙏🏼

[@dwainetyncompany]

Just bought my first chainsaw about a month ago. I ended up going for the Stihl MS261 C-M. Phenomenal saw, haven't had a single issue with it yet. I had a major kickback, my first kickback, a week ago. That bar came so close to whacking me in the face, luckily I was handling the saw properly and the kickback force wasn't enough to counter my reaction force. Excellent video, miss. Thank you.

[@AprilWilkerson]

Kickback is definitely a serious issue should it ever happen. Glad you were handling chainsaw properly so were able to stay safe. Thanks for watching.

[@jasonbabila6006]

One major factor in keeping a chainsaw running good for a long time is a clean air filter, I like to clean the air filter after each use, another thing I like to do is clean the bar channel of sawdust mixed with thick bar oil which gets stuck in the channel.

[@evanwilson6040]

I do the same👍

[@AprilWilkerson]

Good input!

[@chrishadjipetris6059]

If you clean your tools, they can be running for 30 years, or more. I'm saying that, because I use my father used to clean them after use too, and when I use them, they run like brand new, though the newest tool was bought 10 years ago.

[@Plazman]

I just bought my first chainsaw and have been watching videos to educate myself on proper use, maintenance, and protection. I've probably watched a dozen videos by now and this is BY FAR THE BEST video I've seen. It perfectly encapsulates every tidbit I picked up from watching all the other ones. This video is really the only one you need to watch to learn how to choose and use a chainsaw safely. THANK YOU!

[@AprilWilkerson]

Thanks! I'm glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching.

[@fredericrike5974]

So much more informative than my uncle; he said" Boy, don't let go until it runs out of gas- it'll eat your leg!" Good prep for the job!

[@robertpowell2746]

You're absolutely right April I use non-ethanol fuel and I also add Sta-Bil to it and I've never had a problem. I love your videos girl you do a really good job.

[@rosesrambler]

Just watched for second time, very well done for all us novices. Thanks much.

[@Zogg1281]

Finally!!!! Someone who is giving out correct chainsaw information on KZbin!!!! Thanks April 👍👍👍👍👍 Fun fact, when chainsaw trousers were first developed no one trusted them until the head of Stihl appeared on an advert and demonstrated the trousers he was whereing by slamming a running chainsaw into his leg!!! That is some serious faith in your brand 😁

[@jeremycondon3692]

Great video! I hope this gets picked up in the algorithm and gets put in front of many. I know the training provided by Stihl both in person and in their manuals is great and you covered it very well. Thanks for this!

[@Ian_the_tree-guy]

I just bought my first battery chainsaw today and watched this video and feel more comfortable and confident with picking it up and using it now

[@AprilWilkerson]

Great! Glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching.

[@larryslade6544]

Kudos!!! April!!! I am a retired Pacific Northwest of Washington State. I have watched a lot of chain saw 101’s. You are by far the best for covering all of the information we all need when operating a chainsaw. You are the only one I have seen cover the wrap your thumb around the handle bar. I was told this at an early stage of my career. Also if you lose your grip on that front handle bar your instinct is to grab harder with your other hand that has a hold of the throttle. By the way, you use the best saw made. LOL. One more note is Stihl representative told us is that the saw chain rolling around the bar has a higher decibel rating for loudness than the muffler noise on a gas engine model. Very impressed with your video. Larr

[@ralphjones4583]

Thank you so much for the details of this informational video! I’m 58 yrs old and if I’ve used a chain saw i don’t remember! I think you did an amazing job in the walk through from all the safety advice to what saw would be best for me! Kudos to you for your effort! I feel much better prepared to make the right decision for me to tackle the job of cutting down a tree on my property! Thanks again!

[@AprilWilkerson]

Glad it was helpful!

[@pcicchin]

I spent a year working for a fencer doing mainly Ag fence. One of the things I learned from cutting hedge fence posts is that if you wait until the saw stops throwing chips, you've waited too long to sharpen. You're better off sharpening as soon as you have to push down on the saw. This gets the same results as Bob Elgin's suggestion - gives you a break & and a sharper chain, both of which reduce operator fatigue. If you only use your saw (or other 2-stroke tools) intermittently, you can drain the fluids or use canned fuel. OR you can put an ounce or two of SeaFoam in your mixed gas year-round.

[@madmat2001]

When you sharpen your chain, if you don't hit the tops of the drags between the teeth you will eventually end up with a chain that won't cut. The teeth are tapered and get shorter as they get smaller. The drags will, therefore, hold the teeth away from the wood if not reduced in size to compensate for this. The drags are the shark fin shaped bits between the alternating teeth.

[@dans_Learning_Curve]

AKA depth gauges

[@feedyourpeople1st]

Excellent video. Just purchased my first chainsaw. Watching videos to learn. Thank you

[@kevinbussey32]

I’ve been using a chain saw for years and it’s the tool I love the best. Great video.

[@Emmanuel-rs7eu]

From my experience and seeing other guys cut lumber, it's not cutting a big log that's dangerous with a chainsaw kickback, its the small branches that can be treacherous and when you're getting tired especially. Great video!

[@jamestaylor8217]

You have really grown since your early years. Your presentation, knowledge and professionalism is really good. Keep up your brand and continue to grow.

[@weibullguy]

When I was in elementary school I had a friend who was out in the woods hanging with dad while dad was cleaning up some dead fall. Chain broke and hit my friend in the face. I have massive amounts of respect for the chainsaw, more so than most powered tools.

[@tonyorlando9234]

Amazing video for a new chainsaw user. I feel so much more prepared to use it. Thank you April.

[@AprilWilkerson]

Awesome! Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@oliverbrancourt95]

people laugh at me tho i carry 2 bars and 2 chains for those bars so that when one chain gets dull i just change it over and when that gets dull then i switch to my smaller bar (18'') then once i run thro those its time to sit down have a beer and sharpen my chains gives me 30min to an hour to chill. also being aussie most of the stuff i cut is hard wood ie gum iron bark yellow box ect most of witch are not small

[@AshWP]

April, thank you so much for this video! I am a first time homeowner looking for a chainsaw for tasks around the yard and was grappling with battery powered vs electric/gas saws. I was delighted to see your recommendation and reasons for battery powered ones - I am sold on it! Thank you for explaining everything so well - you helped boost my confidence!

[@qstqrt]

I like that she's a fast talker and gets it done! I do realize there was some editing .

[@davidhignett4108]

Thank you for a clear, well-constructed presentation.

[@patricktatten]

Thank you April! This is such a fun, comprehensive instructional video! I was confused about starting methods in the past, and this video really clarified the process. Thank you!

[@lizscharf1]

I got an EGO for Christmas, (we have the lawnmower and we love it and the battery is interchangeable). Your video is great and now I’m going out with my husband to try it out for the first time. So excited! I was pleasantly surprised to see a woman leading the instructional video-makes me feel more confident. Thank you!

[@karllaun2427]

Great video! Some PPE stories: My dad was cutting partially fallen tree. Part of the tree came loose after a cut and hit him in the back causing him to cut a huge gash in his thigh. He was alone, but able to make it back to the house to call for assistance. Another acquaintance was cutting an overhead branch and the saw kicked back into his neck. The only thing that saved him was that his jawbone kept the saw from cutting his carotid. He was a tough old farmer of over 70 yrs and drove himself 15 miles into the ER. Moral: use all the PPE shown here when using a chain sawl.

[@rogerdickinson920]

Loggers and Arborists are required to carry a pressure bandage and a small aerosol fire extinguisher. Look up Israeli Bandage on UTube. Or if you are in my area, I'll teach you.

[@Iexpedite1]

I have a tip that worked really good for me. I owned all the gear shown plus a few log handling tools. I moved off my 20 acres and into town. I sold my big saw and all the gear. I had a tree I needed to take down at my new place. I called a guy that owned all the equipment and he made all my tree problems go away. He was a professional with insurance and a bucket truck and a team of workers. That’s my tip, call that guy....so easy. No back pain. Your 100% right about tired affecting form and putting you in danger. A chainsaw is not something you want to lose focus with.

[@markwatters6875]

April, you are a blessing. You are the first American I have seen on you tube that starts the chainsaw safely and correctly. Thank you, thank you and thank you. All the best to you and your family for 2020. Have a good one from Australia

[@michaellandry788]

Good video. I noticed that you were wearing boots, but didn't talk about them other than say to use them in the PPE part. I use steel toe Timberland Pro boots with my chainsaw. My daughter works for Northern Tool & Equipment in Houston, TX and has to start every Stihl saw she sells to make sure they work. Not sure what other videos you have, but I had to replace my saw fuel line 1/16" and fuel filter which is part of the maintenance. I tried using a pull tool to pull the line through the hole to the fuel tank to the carborator. I saw videos showing people use this type of tool or fishing line to pull it through. I found it much easier to just push the fuel line down into the hole until I could pull it through enough to put on the fuel filter on the tank side. I have three daughters and a step daughter, so I appreciate you showing that anyone can handle chainsaws. Thanks.

[@andrewbarker9586]

As a Chainsaw instructor with the emergency services i see chainsaw used badly often, when i saw your video my first thought was ok here we go this should be interesting. I have to say thank you April for your accurate , easily understood explanation of the use of the chainsaw. I would like to have seen you demonstrate what kickback looks like, however i dont blame you for not. I enjoy your video's and think i have seen them all. Great work and all the best for the future, and most importantly stay safe.

[@AprilWilkerson]

: ) Thank you, I put a lot of time into it. I also had an instructor for Stihl help me refine my talking points and include tips I didn't know yet.

[@danielhansen7542]

As a first time user of a gas chainsaw, your video was most helpful.

[@AprilWilkerson]

Glad it helped. Thanks for watching.

[@mtman673]

I love the way you explain things, quick and to the point with no clutter. : )

[@AprilWilkerson]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoy the channel. Thanks for watching.

[@kylezilke4921]

One of the benefits living on the coast is that I can get marine gas with no ethanol. I use marine grade gas for all small gas equipment. Stihl is the best.

[@gus473]

Ok, let's get Jonsered in this....! 🤠

[@bobd5119]

April, thank you for emphasizing safety. Well done! Especially about staying out of the plane of the cut, i.e. standing to the side of the saw. I've carried that tactic to my table saw.

[@JoriDiculous]

nice informative video. Just one little thing you could have mentioned. When you flip the saw on its side, you will see a line / depression on the saw. That's you aim-line when you are felling trees :)

[@MrsGraphiteGal]

Probably irrelevant here, if you are watching a beginner video, should you be going out telling trees.

[@fr33ourminds]

I got a chainsaw for Christmas so yeah this helped tons. Good timing!

[@Mike-In-O-Town]

Good video. One additional comment though. Regardless the fuel you use, its always a good idea to drain the fuel from the saw when you opt to store it. Given you never know how long it will be in storage, even non-ethanol fuel will eventually degrade and muck up the carb if left in the saw long enough.

[@chainsawsandmore5480]

Very very well made, friendly & still professional. That's advocacy level.

[@amsohn1]

Hi April, I really enjoyed this video!! I've used chainsaws all my life, however receive t illness had me not able to even lift my old faithful saw... I got a WorX battery powered chainsaw and absolutely love it! It's taken down trees and lasted all day... as I'm much slower now and had to take more breaks it works at my speed!! I really appreciate you spending the time to cover battery operated saws too! Blessings

[@markrhodes9632]

This video is incredible. All amazing advice - thank you April!

[@Ripley777]

Respect all tools you use as a part o your body. Fact!

[@SamPeabody]

That "table of contents" with time stamps is a GREAT idea that I wish more people did on KZbin!

[@jrjr5537]

Very great video for me being a newbie. Thank you. I'll stay safe.

[@theadventuresofzoomandbettie]

We are looking for the right property to move out to at the moment, and I'm keen for a chainsaw when we find the right place. I feel pretty confident with power tools, being that I did my carpentry apprenticeship, but I've never owned a chainsaw before, so these kinds of videos are super useful! Thanks April!

[@MoYvStarkey]

This is so helpful and practical.

[@mireyatorres1176]

Llevo un año usando motosierra y este es el mejor vídeo educativo que e visto , te agradezco tu tiempo y tu paciencia para explicar , a mi me ayudó con algunas dudas que tenía...gracias mil , un abrazo 👏👏👏⚘

[@AprilWilkerson]

Awesome! I'm glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching.

[@michelecraig9658]

Thanks so much for this great video. I just bought a Stihl battery operated chainsaw, but they didn't tell me to buy the safety gear. Thats next on my list!

[@chrismate2805]

Well, you did a comprehensive job on explaining this, well done.

[@bonafidegeek]

Thanks for the great information April! Much appreciated!

[@jonsmith1271]

Wow I'm only 5 min in and this is already the most informative and well presented video I've seen (and I've watch loads). Excellent video. Very well scripted and explained , thank you

[@AprilWilkerson]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching.

[@TokyoCraftsman]

I'm a Husky guy, but Stihls are good saws too. Great video April, and I agree with you on the electric saws, they have come a long way. I have a really good Makita corded electric saw that I sometimes use with my Granberg small chainsaw mill, as I live in downtown Tokyo the quite electric saw is sometimes the only choice, that being said, I do own 5 chainsaws, and yes I live in downtown Tokyo LOL. Cheers!

[@emilythegermanshepherd7425]

How to use a chainsaw step one. Remember it only goes wrong once so pay attention😁

[@holmesgirlclassics6664]

Thank you for this video! I have a tree that has been down since a storm, years ago. My neighbors cut most of it, but there's still some left. So, I was thinking about getting a chainsaw and cutting the rest. However, I've never used one. And I was kind of hoping that someone would provide a tutorial on the proper way to use one. Now, thanks to you, I have that tutorial! And I am definitely going to look for a battery operated chainsaw! Thank you and God Bless!

[@timothyhaynie2338]

Thank you April for being awesome at what you do!

[@emilianorojasdorado3042]

Excelente video, la seguridad ante todo.

[@melissahanley2918]

Just bought my first chain saw and this video was excellent to help me understand safe use of it. Thanks!

[@ralphwoodard609]

Thank you April for such an informative presentation.

[@TheReformationWoodshop]

This is such a great video! Unique and useful information. 💪🏻

[@lesfogerson1092]

Perfect instructional video. Nobody could have done better, not even Stihl (I know because I watched theirs too). I watch your videos mostly because of your personality, even if I already know the content. Plus it's good to reinforce my knowledge on things. Thanks for such good videos.

[@FredMcIntyre]

Thanks for the important information April, I'll definitely be using this as a reference if and when I need to get and use a chainsaw! 😃👍🏻👊🏻

[@AprilWilkerson]

Great to hear Fred!

[@abigailkerr3354]

Great! I had my first 5 minute chainsaw lesson last year which definitely did not leave me with a whole lot of confidence using them! Next time I feel like I'll feel more prepared!

[@AprilWilkerson]

Yeah 5 mins isn't enough to cover it. In fact, even this 17 min video could be broken down and made longer. : )

[@rogerdickinson920]

5 minutes?? My course was a full 3 days and that was a Basic Course. We ere expected to have First Aid as well.

[@theresafladger6334]

Thank you so much! I didn't know anything about chainsaws and wanted to go right into it. Thank you for saving my life! LOL... you were so clear and very helpful!

[@AprilWilkerson]

Awesome! Glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching.

[@Johniakson]

One of my favorite tools too 👌😎 Nice video! 💖

[@Jdefries1]

I'm a safety Director at a utility company and this is a great safety video!!!!!!

[@WowRixter]

Fantastic! So much great info packed into a short amount of time

[@kbnixon]

Awesome video! Best I have seen so far! Thank You!!!

[@samil4307]

Great video for beginners and even advanced chainsaw users. Great and relevant video again, as always. thank you.

[@AprilWilkerson]

Glad you think so. : ) Thanks!

[@mariagaddis8384]

Thank you April for this information I will be showing this video to my husband who thinks he knows it all when it comes to chainsaws.

[@DavePawson]

Thanks April. Usual common sense / good advice.

[@shane8463]

Great info. Love you and all your videos. Thank you. Stay safe

[@lishster]

Thanks for the thorough video on all things related to chainsaws. I absolutely love my Stihl electric chainsaw! It's amazingly light and is a workhorse. Nice job!

[@kiwdwks]

Awesome video. Thanks for all the important information!

[@kobelcofan]

I love having a gas chainsaw and a battery chainsaw. A very good thing to note is to get a brand that has a service center nearby. You'll thank yourself soon enough.

[@jacknicholls10]

Thank you, have been waiting for a vid like this before using mine for the first time in like 10 years! didn't even have to look as already subscribed... legend!

[@AprilWilkerson]

: ) Well good, I'm glad you think it's useful! I was also shocked at the lack of good through videos on the subject and that's what inspired me to make my own.

[@ChangeFromScratch]

This video has helped a WHOLE LOT! I look forward to using a good, battery operated chainsaw for my personal needs, also, I’m comfortable with a gas saw. Well-explained!

[@brookesp]

Awesome work April & really informative!! Thanks

[@nordyfamily]

Great work! Thanks for taking the time to make, film, edit and share

[@jgrow15068]

Thank you for the info, I’m just starting to use a chainsaw

[@trosetty2011]

Awesome video! So thorough and easy to follow

[@biancabrooks280]

I fell asleep watching this. You have a very soothing voice. Imma listen again and go back to sawing logs

[@HeavyMetalLearning]

Great training video April!

[@atticbrowser9698]

Great video. Thank you.

[@marlonmontano5752]

Thanks for the video, very informative.

[@frankmckinnis]

April, most Murphy's at Walmart's in your part of the state have non-ethanol gas as do most Buc ee's. Far cheaper by a magnitude of 10 from what Stihl sells their mix for.

[@kzfingerprint]

This was INCREDIBLY helpful. Thank You!!!

[@AprilWilkerson]

: ) You're welcome, that's great to hear.

[@blauro]

Great video. Thank you !!

[@suzannesimpson1672]

Agree with everything you said. For novices, they also have a anti-kickback guard that can be attached to the tip. Good tip about the Stihl bar oil. I may need to try some.

[@DoItYourselfDIYAtHome]

Thanks for the great tips about the tip kick back. My Stiihl has been working great.

[@teamfun4u]

April, good info as usual.. My safety tip....start the saw as you have shown..... many think a "drop start' is the way to go...not.. rotator cuff damage...and Stihl has compression

[@Raysnature]

Also worth noting that on a 'soft start' STIHL yanking on the cord or drop starting will actually damage the mechanism.

[@vitorcruz8165]

Excellent explanation, thank you!