There are five important factors you should consider
before making a cut:
1
Make sure the cutting equipment will not jam in the
cut.
2
Make sure the object you are cutting will not split.
3
Make sure the chain will not strike the ground or any
other object during or after cutting.
4
Is there a risk of kickback?
5
Do the conditions and surrounding terrain affect how
safely you can stand and move about?
Two factors decide whether the chain will jam or the object
that you are cutting will split: the first is how the object is
supported before and after cutting, and the second is
whether it is in tension.
In most cases you can avoid these problems by cutting in
two stages; from the top and from the bottom. You need to
support the object so that it will not trap the chain or split
during cutting.
WARNING! If the chain jams in the cut:
!
stop the engine! Don't try to pull the
chain saw free. If you do you may be
injured by the chain when the chain saw
suddenly breaks free. Use a lever to open
up the cut and free the chain saw.
The following instructions describe how to handle the
common situations you are likely to encounter when using
a chain saw.
Cutting
The log is lying on the ground. There is little risk of the
chain jamming or the object splitting. However there is a
28 – English
WORKING TECHNIQUES
risk that the chain will touch the ground when you finish
the cut.
Cut all the way through the log from above. Avoid letting
the chain touch the ground as you finish the cut. Maintain
full throttle but be prepared for what might happen.
- If it is possible (can you turn the log?) stop cutting about
2/3 of the way through the log.
- Turn the log and finish the cut from the opposite side.
The log is supported at one end. There is a high risk
that it will split.
Start by cutting from below (about 1/3 of the way through).
- Finish by cutting from above so that the two cuts meet.
The log is supported at both ends. There is a high risk
that the chain will jam.