I ran a chain saw professionally for many years. I can’t believe how good you are at explaining the basics. I could find no wrong in anything you said. There are, of course, many other things to know beyond what you said,but this perfect for the guy starting out. Listen up guys,this dude knows what he is talking about! By the way, after 52 years, I am retired now with no scars!
Me neither!! I started cutting at 14, and I'm 71 now! I've had several close calls, mostly from people near me that didn't know what they were doing! I had a uncle that was killed by a tree that was hung up and came loose and got him! He was in his 70s at the time! He'd logged since he was a kid too!
I didn’t grow up with a dad or work a job that would give me this type of knowledge growing up. And videos like these mean a lot to me. I love seeing a cabin being built but informational videos especially on safety. Mean a lot to me. Thanks man.
Great video Dave! I’m 56 years old and have been running a chainsaw most of my life. That being said I learned something new today. That little rubber stop on the bottom of the saw, I did not know that was for operator safety if the chain was to come off the bar! I’ll be darned! Very informative and helpful, really enjoyed this tutorial!
Dave, this video is another reason that you have a million subscribers. It covers the basics of what you need to know and more. As you explained, tension is a real danger. If you are felling trees you always need to be aware of what is around you, what is above you, and what can go wrong. You also want to have an escape route for when the tree starts to fall. Great job!
I don't think i will ever use a chainsaw, but i really like the informational dense video, calm tone, no over exaggerated body language, no screams, just pure knowledge. I love it.
Want to know why Dave has 1M subs? Videos like this, thorough, well-thought out, reinforcing the important parts multiple times. Authenticity: Dave states his experience is limited to building a log cabin & firewood. Great safety tips and the 'why' behind those tips. Excellent coverage on 'stored/potential energy' and the dangers & unpredictability. I also personally appreciate how Dave takes pride in his tools. Easy to pile on here... chain sharpening, fuel tips, starting tips... This content is just packed w/what ya really need to know about owning/operating a chainsaw. Thanks Dave, you raise the bar with every video.
Man, finally a video about tools and maintenance and taking things apart like you made in the beginning. I am not likely to use a chainsaw but I learned and enjoyed the video. This kind of video is like stopping by your house, just seeing what you are up to and listening while you explain it. So relaxing, informative and enjoyable!!!
Cutting firewood and chopping it, two of the things I never complain doing. Something so relaxing about wielding an axe or a chainsaw. And I still have all my fingers :))
Excellent commentary. When operating a chainsaw. Always step back and take a second look before committing to the cut. Check your angle one more time. I have two electric pole saws. One electric saw, two gas powered 1 Husquvarna, one Stihl and bought a 40volt Ryobi with an 18in bar yesterday. Each has their specific uses.
I used a chainsaw for the first time this weekend. With the help of my dad (who also never used a chainsaw), we took down a small tree that was mostly dead in my front yard. I knew the safety basics, the maintenance basics, and operation basics, all from watching your videos and others like it on youtube. It's amazing that we have this tool at our disposal today. I never would have done that on my own without videos like this. I would have hired the job out and ended up having to pay 3 to 4 times as much as the price of the saw. Keep making great videos like this, Dave, and I'll keep watching them and trying to be radical, eh.
Keep being safe, and remember, always trust your gut. If something feels unsafe, it probably is. Step back and re-evaluate. Congrats to you and your dad tackling a project like that, great sense of accomplishment.
You are not wrong. Great video and very well explained! I’m a very safety minded person and therefor run thru many scenarios in my mind on and off the job site. Two expansions on your points: 1) Footing. Pay real attention to what’s around your feet as it is very easy to get tangled and or trip on something. Thinking of de-limbing a tree. All those little branches catch your feet. What’s your exit paths if you need to escape a situation. Don’t trip over that log that’s right behind you. 2) Your cardboard plane example is right on. I will not cut something if someone is down range on that plane. Thank you for your videos!
if you've been regularly running a saw for 20+ years without any serious injuries i'd say you're worth listening too, even if yourself have been running saw for an extended time it's still worth listening to others as you never stop learning and someone else might just have a better more efficient way of doing things........ great video as always Dave💪👍👍
My grandfather died in 2019, a month ago I was at his old house and "saved" four Jonsered chainsaws: 62 (mfg: 1969-1970), 52 (mfg: 1971-1982), 370 (mfg: 1986-1988) and 2041(mfg: 1990). Been cleaning them up and checking how they work and if they don't run, try to make them run. Right now the only one that doesn't run is the 370 :) Grandpa worked in forestry back in the days. Found your videos yesterday, you are really good at explaining things, thank you! Great videos, keep up the good work! Greetings from Finland.
Respect any power tool ! When you get cocky and disregard common sense and safety is when accidents happen! Got that advice back in mid to late seventies from shop teacher and never forgot it! Great vid great advice!
Never have used a chainsaw. I have split a lot of firewood, in a different life. If I ever have to use one, now I have a wealth of information that I did not know. Thanks!!!
I always struggled to get a sharp chain. Then I found the Stihl 2 in 1 sharpener. Total game changer. Thanks for all the pointers. We sometimes just forget, because we are to comfortable. Thanks Dave.
Thanks for this. I live in a rural area of New England and my neighbor gifted me a used chainsaw recently after I complained about not being able to clear my road and driveway whenever a tree came down and blocked me in (happened 3 times last year). I knew I needed one but had never used or picked one up because I had reservations about maintaining it.
I don’t use a chainsaw (don’t even own one), but found this video incredibly useful. I loved the points about cutting a tree limb with a chainsaw on a ladder. Great stuff Dave!
..... my life is just getting harder and closer to that point where imma just move to the forest.. so this is very useful. thank you... really hope i can get a house going.. atleast a shack
I’ve run saws on and off for over 40 years but never will say I’m an expert. I’ve got a project over the next couple weeks involving some technical felling and am glad and grateful you put this out. Always learning and needing a refresher. Happy and safe cutting to all.
I used to work with chainsaws a lot. Making beach road/trail. Working with all kinds of tree sizes. I know how to operate a chainsaw. Ten seconds into the video i realized, i have no idea how to operate a chainsaw. Haha Thank you Dave, I enjoyed the video....and consider me enlightened. Haha
Dave that was a great video, at 72 I have had firsthand experience with stored tension. I lived in Florida before retiring in 2021, there was a Brazilian pepper tree in back that needed cut down. It had three main branches that had to be cut, I cut down the first with no problem. The second one however was a different story as it came down it turned and put tension of its branches. I studied the tree before stopping that day so that I knew how to cut the next day. The next morning, after sitting everything up to get started, I had started working backwards from the way I had say I would cut it the next day. Well, here I am on a six-foot ladder with pole saw in hand, started the cut and saw what was about to happen but it was a little too late. I threw the pole saw to get it away from me just as the branch made connect with the ladder. I fell backwards landing on the stump of a tree with a vertical V-shaped cut, let me tell you that hurt and yes, I went to the hospital on my own. Lesson learned study a branch with tension before you make that cut because you cannot take it back trust me. The fall hurt my pride and caused bruising from my buttocks to my ankle on my left leg. Thankfully I did not loss any work and I still cut that tree down. Have a great day up there radical land.
When my step dad borrowed his friends chainsaw to cut down a dead tree in our yard, he was struggling to control the saw. It kept throwing him off balance and making him trip. A lot of kickback. He didn't like me suggesting he was doing it incorrectly. Still might send him this though... and then 🤐 I'm glad we don't have a chainsaw of our own yet. I hope he'll watch to the end.
As a widow continuing to live on 5 acres full of trees and relatively new too using a chainsaw. I think this is an excellent video. You covered all the bases of chainsaw use and safety and maintenance. Love your channel ! Thank you
Great introduction to this useful (and dangerous) tool. I use one occasionally and this was a great reminder. "Caution is your best piece of safety equipment." Great advice. Thanks for a great video.
I don't own a chain saw, I have no practical use for them in my daily life. But now I want one, just to have the satisfaction of cleaning it. Great video, Dave!
Great video. The only thing I would add is something I learned when I'm sharpening my chainsaw: that is, I take a Sharpie and mark the tooth of the one where I start sharpening. It makes it easy to know when I've gone all the way around.
Towards the end when you were cleaning it you said "Does this matter? no." But I would beg to differ. It reminds me of something my dad has told me my whole life: "Take care of your tools and they will take care of you." Sure, changing all the liquids and getting new tires for your car is more important than cleaning it but I believe there's a spiritual aspect to it and for you to take the time to clean your saw I like to think you do too. Thanks Dave! Love your videos!
My dad told me when I was young, take care of what God gave you and he will bless you something else. I miss my Dad he died in 2016. Thanks for the memories.
A very thorough explanation of use and maintenance; the only thing my dad hasn't taught me is watching out for wedged branches and the force they can have.
Went through a 3 year apprenticeship and I've used saws almost weekly for over a decade since and still gonna take some pro tips into work tomorrow. That's a great point about too much safety gear giving a false sense of security, seen a lot of people do some shady stuff thinking they were untouchable bc they had fancy chaps on. This is going to help a lot of people stay safe, great job Dave!
Hey Dave, another great video of yours! My dad has been doing his firewood for years without knowing to kick about the chainsaws. Since he's getting older, I'm taking over that job slowly but surely. Great to have a nice video like this to get some orientation on how to generally use and especially maintain the tool. Clear and informative as always! Keep up the good work!
Thank you. I was gifted a pole saw last summer. I’m still cutting behind decades of neglect. By the end of winter, I”ll be lifting a real chain saw. The pole saw was good at breaking me in before getting close and more powerful. Essential videos are important and yours is excellent.
Absolutely great instructions, I work for an arborist and I can't think of anything to add, except I was trained never to use air compressor on an air filter(maybe because of how hard to control the air's power), my favorite part to watch was your saw cleanup, so satisfying. The saws we use are always so filthy, and never stay clean, we need you around !
I love your videos. You have common sense and you explain things very well. I have used a chainsaw for many years. Im 70 now. I have had no serious injuries with a chainsaw , but i also don't claim to know it all. Thanks for your videos. I look forward to them.
Ma dude I just spent 6 hours watching your videos. Thank you for the content. I had that I can't do that attitude. After I watched the video "simple off grid cabin behind the scenes" I felt so ashamed of my way of thinking. Sometimes we need people to talk to us about what a blessing it is to be healthy, young and capable. Thank you ma dude, I will realise my dream one day, I will work for it.
Good points, safety is your best friend. I wear a screen face shield because I had an old Stihl without a chain brake. Not a problem as I used one for logging when I was young. I used this one a lot yntil one day we needed fire wood and I was sick. Bad combination which required over a dozen stitches in the face. I bought a Jonsered with kick back safety and a hard hat with a face shield. Never work when you are sick. One other thing is let the saw do the work. If it is sharp, it needs no downward pressure. People use a chainsaw like a handsaw thinking that speed and pressure are needed. Keep up the practicle help. You might show how wedges help with making cuts.
At 66 and just an occasional chainsaw user thru the years I’ve had a few close calls, my biggest threat to my limbs and life had always been and especially now at my older age and sorry health is sawing when I’m well passed tired / worn out, weak, I’ve lucked out just catching my jeans in the chain, luckily the jeans stoped the chain instantly. I have always been the type to push myself way past "calling it a day" time. I now wear out so fast and easily (heart issues) now when my arms are just starting to feel rubbery I stop and move on to other chores. Good advice in this video.
Dave, I don't know how I missed this one, but...... Buddy, you knocked this one outta da park!! I've been using chain saws for 60+ years now, and if I didn't learn something new in this video, I reinforced WHY I do certain things. I applaud your stressing safety... Safety... SAFETY!!! It only happens to the other guy, UNTIL YOU ARE THE OTHER GUY!!!! I'll cite another example: table saws. My 10" belt drive saw is over 50 years old and doesn't have all the safety features of a new one. I treat that saw the way you treat your chain saws. It's not a 'hangar queen,' either. It's had enough use over the decades I've rebuilt the motor... twice now. What I'm leading up to, EACH AND EVERY TIME I want to cut a piece of wood, I look at my material, look at the saw and where my hands/fingers are going to be throughout the cut... NOT just the start or finish. Thanks again(!!), and stay safe...........
As a long time ED and ICU nurse it warms the cockles of my heart to see you reinforce the importance of safety gear and common sense. Over the years I’ve seen minor and major logging injuries. When the guys would stand around and rehash the event it nearly always came down to someone trying to skirt the safety measures. I love your content! Keep up the great work and stay safe! 👍🏼👏🏼👍🏼
I will probably never use a chainsaw but I sure will look at and appreciate the people that do! Thank you for your concise and entertaining video yet again.
Thank you Dave. I've been watching your videos for a long time but I don't think I've ever said thank you. You should know that I've learned so much from you. I am young and I've acted/am acting already on all of these lessons. I am headed to Alaska! Thank you so much for an exciting and radical and simple life ahead of me. Thank you.
Grew up with chainsaws in a family of loggers and been cutting my firewood for years. This is the best video I have ever seen on chainsawing. I learned several things from you! Thanks!
I have been cutting wood, for roughly 35 yrs. Professionally and just on my own stuff. This was a really good video. Lots of common sense. Never to old to learn something new or review things I should know/ be doing. Thanks.
Through my former job in the fire service and a lifetime of cutting firewood, I have run Huskies, Stihls, Echos, Poulans, and McCulloch saws. This is a solid basic course for folks just starting out.
So not that i needed this video for myself. I am an on call firefighter with a batch of new hires that really don't know how to run a saw. After watching i forwarded this to them thanks for all the safety talk. this video needs to be included with saws.
I was an arborist for 12 years working doing contract work for a local power company. This is an excellent video. You drove home the single most important thing when using a chainsaw, common sense. I've seen many guys making trips to the emergency room who wore all their safety gear. My boss used to say often 'you can't fix stupid', so true. I was blessed to only have one major incident. My safety glasses slid down my wet face during a storm and I ended up with big sliver of oak puncturing the corner of my eye. Thankfully it was the corner and my eye was fine. Oak sap burns your eye like fire though. Lol
Wow. Just wow. I'm just getting started in using a chainsaw and feel like I've just had a comprehensive course in the basics. I'm taking your safety pointers to heart. Excellent video. Cheers.
Excellent video. Thank you! I'm a 62yo woman and have only recently started using a chainsaw. I have my own little battery opperated one but feel I'm ready to graduate to a real chainsaw if needed.
I am so impressed with how simple and well you explain most things but, especially this subject. Thank you Dave! I use several chainsaws daily and could NOT show my sons in person better than this. The segment on sharpening is hands down the best video I’ve seen on the subject! Well done and keep coming with the excellent content! God bless!
Thanks dave! Ive never had the pleasure of running a saw, just the chore of schlepping the gas and bar n chain oil through the woods for the peole that did run the saws. Now i feel less scared to try it. The explanation of how the saw acts differently depending on the top cut or the under cut is one of the mysteries that i wondered.
Beech and Ash. Fantastic video, one of your best ever. I laughed at how your finer points are exactly how I treat cutting trees. I live in a Beech, Sugar Maple, Basswood and Birch forest near lake Michigan. Cutting the Ash back when they died was a huge job. Still have a pretty good size White Ash surviving the borer.
Best explanation for amateurs. We teach and show this stuff for ECN (MOS) 096 Combat Engineers in the Australian Army. We keep backups in other ECNs (drivers, armour, infantry pioneer platoons) and basically anyone else that we can train for domestic operations - fire and flood.
You forgot to mention that you have to fill the bar oil or the chain won't cut worth a $#&%. Great video, I love your content and this channel. Keep up the great work Dave!
I had a running saw contact my leg twice. Two different times. Both when I was fatigued and limbing downed trees. Stepping and tripping over limbs and such. Now I wear safety chaps every time I’m sawing.
I love your videos. What's so cool is I watched Brooke's video and seen you in it, which I love seeing you two together. Also you were all saying what I was thinking, you were cloned to create Belle and Mick. Then I watched Mick's video, and my thoughts were the same as yours. Last week or so I found out your brother is on RUclips, now I'm waiting to see if or when Belle is starting show. I love seeing you guys do your own thing. But I love even more seeing you all do things as a family! Like when Mick, you,and Brooke worked on your house cleaning it. And at home tonight thanks
Thanks for the lesson. For someone who has used a chainsaw less than 10 times I am now more aware of these tips. BTW, thanks for the comedy relief during this important video...keep up the great work.
Great video, Dave ... and just in time. You've likely saved me from serious injury with your tips. My Great Grandfather was a lumberjack working near Cadillac before I was born. He had a timber kick back on him and he almost died from the head wounds he got. I appreciate your "heads up", for sure! God Bless you and your family
Excellent advice! Kickback is no joke with a chainsaw, doesn't matter how much experience you have. Only takes one "Whoopsie!" to lose a member. I was cutting some logs with a rinky-dink electric chainsaw, when that thing kicked back and immediately grabbed ahold of the front end of my shoe. Thankfully they were steel-toes, or I might have lost a toe or two. Happens in a split second.
I like your videos on any topic... I've been using chainsaws since I was a teen, but in my 70s, moved to electric with a generator as they are strong but lightweight. I don't climb trees anymore, so less risk. Back in the day, I broke every rule you have mentioned, but somehow never got badly injured. (Luck, not skill.) I did tie my ladders to the trees after having to drop a saw once to grab a tree and hang on. I do have a rule now, maybe due to age, that you don't seem to have yet. Never use the saw without a helper or observer in case something does happen.
We live in the woods and each year we deal with downed tree limbs. Our Gasoline powered chain saw always gave me fits to start. I bought an electric corded chain saw, and what an improvement it is over the gasoline models for our usage. I plan to purchase a battery powered chainsaw in the near future. I take my chain saw blades to the hardware store for sharpening and keep extra blades on hand here at home.
Excellent. I’ve been cutting firewood, about 3-4 cord a year, for about 20 years now and I couldn’t have packed that much safety and user info into a half hour video. Great video.
Thanks! This was so informative. While I don't currently have a chainsaw project in mind, I got one for free from a client not long ago and I;m so glad I watched this before ever using it. I'll return to this when the time comes. I especially appreciated your opinion on keeping a reliable tool clean and going the extra mile to treat it the way it deserves. Coming from a tech enthusiast background, this is exactly how I treat my electronics. I take particular joy in cleaning and refurbishing old gaming consoles, which provided so much fun at one time and are often left neglected for years after the owner moves on.
I ran a chain saw professionally for many years. I can’t believe how good you are at explaining the basics. I could find no wrong in anything you said. There are, of course, many other things to know beyond what you said,but this perfect for the guy starting out. Listen up guys,this dude knows what he is talking about! By the way, after 52 years, I am retired now with no scars!
Do you know any other channels or books that are classics for this? I'm delving into it this winter.
@@robertgraves3215 You can get good info from the saw companies themselves. there are some online saw courses too, worth the time a nd money.
No scars? Were u a pencil pusher?
Me neither!! I started cutting at 14, and I'm 71 now! I've had several close calls, mostly from people near me that didn't know what they were doing! I had a uncle that was killed by a tree that was hung up and came loose and got him! He was in his 70s at the time! He'd logged since he was a kid too!
@donaldhofman5257 I'm sorry about your uncle but that's a real eye opener. Thank you for sharing.
I didn’t grow up with a dad or work a job that would give me this type of knowledge growing up. And videos like these mean a lot to me. I love seeing a cabin being built but informational videos especially on safety. Mean a lot to me. Thanks man.
Same here. This and Wranglerstar are my favorites
Great video Dave! I’m 56 years old and have been running a chainsaw most of my life. That being said I learned something new today. That little rubber stop on the bottom of the saw, I did not know that was for operator safety if the chain was to come off the bar! I’ll be darned! Very informative and helpful, really enjoyed this tutorial!
Thanks. Often that chain stop is made of aluminum
Ok Dave. Slow down for us girls!
@@melindastephens9200I actually changed the speed of the video and slowed it down to half speed.... lol....
U still got ur homelite I seen that old picture of u
Dave, this video is another reason that you have a million subscribers. It covers the basics of what you need to know and more. As you explained, tension is a real danger. If you are felling trees you always need to be aware of what is around you, what is above you, and what can go wrong. You also want to have an escape route for when the tree starts to fall. Great job!
I don't think i will ever use a chainsaw, but i really like the informational dense video, calm tone, no over exaggerated body language, no screams, just pure knowledge. I love it.
I have always found that a clean tool feels like it is working better than it did when it was dirty. :)
Want to know why Dave has 1M subs? Videos like this, thorough, well-thought out, reinforcing the important parts multiple times. Authenticity: Dave states his experience is limited to building a log cabin & firewood. Great safety tips and the 'why' behind those tips. Excellent coverage on 'stored/potential energy' and the dangers & unpredictability. I also personally appreciate how Dave takes pride in his tools. Easy to pile on here... chain sharpening, fuel tips, starting tips... This content is just packed w/what ya really need to know about owning/operating a chainsaw. Thanks Dave, you raise the bar with every video.
Brother, we are so chiselled from the same tree, I've never seen anyone else WAX a chainsaw. I couldn't disagree with anything, great info!!
Man, finally a video about tools and maintenance and taking things apart like you made in the beginning. I am not likely to use a chainsaw but I learned and enjoyed the video. This kind of video is like stopping by your house, just seeing what you are up to and listening while you explain it. So relaxing, informative and enjoyable!!!
Cutting firewood and chopping it, two of the things I never complain doing. Something so relaxing about wielding an axe or a chainsaw. And I still have all my fingers :))
Couldn't agree more!
Excellent commentary.
When operating a chainsaw.
Always step back and take a second look before committing to the cut.
Check your angle one more time.
I have two electric pole saws. One electric saw, two gas powered 1 Husquvarna, one Stihl and bought a 40volt Ryobi with an 18in bar yesterday.
Each has their specific uses.
I used a chainsaw for the first time this weekend. With the help of my dad (who also never used a chainsaw), we took down a small tree that was mostly dead in my front yard. I knew the safety basics, the maintenance basics, and operation basics, all from watching your videos and others like it on youtube. It's amazing that we have this tool at our disposal today. I never would have done that on my own without videos like this. I would have hired the job out and ended up having to pay 3 to 4 times as much as the price of the saw. Keep making great videos like this, Dave, and I'll keep watching them and trying to be radical, eh.
Keep being safe, and remember, always trust your gut. If something feels unsafe, it probably is. Step back and re-evaluate. Congrats to you and your dad tackling a project like that, great sense of accomplishment.
You are not wrong. Great video and very well explained!
I’m a very safety minded person and therefor run thru many scenarios in my mind on and off the job site.
Two expansions on your points:
1) Footing. Pay real attention to what’s around your feet as it is very easy to get tangled and or trip on something. Thinking of de-limbing a tree. All those little branches catch your feet. What’s your exit paths if you need to escape a situation. Don’t trip over that log that’s right behind you.
2) Your cardboard plane example is right on. I will not cut something if someone is down range on that plane.
Thank you for your videos!
if you've been regularly running a saw for 20+ years without any serious injuries i'd say you're worth listening too, even if yourself have been running saw for an extended time it's still worth listening to others as you never stop learning and someone else might just have a better more efficient way of doing things........ great video as always Dave💪👍👍
Thanks
I couldn't agree more.
Just bought a 18 volt Ryobi 10” great little chainsaw. Thanks for the tutorial. Safety is #1. Gettin’ hurt or dead ain’t fun for anyone.
My grandfather died in 2019, a month ago I was at his old house and "saved" four Jonsered chainsaws: 62 (mfg: 1969-1970), 52 (mfg: 1971-1982), 370 (mfg: 1986-1988) and 2041(mfg: 1990). Been cleaning them up and checking how they work and if they don't run, try to make them run. Right now the only one that doesn't run is the 370 :) Grandpa worked in forestry back in the days. Found your videos yesterday, you are really good at explaining things, thank you! Great videos, keep up the good work! Greetings from Finland.
Keep those old Reds running
Great video. I'm fully certified to use a chainsaw. Safety always comes first in my book!!
Respect any power tool ! When you get cocky and disregard common sense and safety is when accidents happen! Got that advice back in mid to late seventies from shop teacher and never forgot it! Great vid great advice!
Never have used a chainsaw. I have split a lot of firewood, in a different life. If I ever have to use one, now I have a wealth of information that I did not know. Thanks!!!
I always struggled to get a sharp chain. Then I found the Stihl 2 in 1 sharpener. Total game changer. Thanks for all the pointers. We sometimes just forget, because we are to comfortable. Thanks Dave.
Thanks for this. I live in a rural area of New England and my neighbor gifted me a used chainsaw recently after I complained about not being able to clear my road and driveway whenever a tree came down and blocked me in (happened 3 times last year). I knew I needed one but had never used or picked one up because I had reservations about maintaining it.
Now that is a great neighbor.
I don’t use a chainsaw (don’t even own one), but found this video incredibly useful. I loved the points about cutting a tree limb with a chainsaw on a ladder. Great stuff Dave!
thanks
Indeed, I purchased a pole saw to avoid any ladder temptations!
..... my life is just getting harder and closer to that point where imma just move to the forest.. so this is very useful. thank you... really hope i can get a house going.. atleast a shack
I’ve run saws on and off for over 40 years but never will say I’m an expert. I’ve got a project over the next couple weeks involving some technical felling and am glad and grateful you put this out. Always learning and needing a refresher. Happy and safe cutting to all.
I used to work with chainsaws a lot. Making beach road/trail. Working with all kinds of tree sizes. I know how to operate a chainsaw.
Ten seconds into the video i realized, i have no idea how to operate a chainsaw. Haha
Thank you Dave, I enjoyed the video....and consider me enlightened. Haha
Dave that was a great video, at 72 I have had firsthand experience with stored tension. I lived in Florida before retiring in 2021, there was a Brazilian pepper tree in back that needed cut down. It had three main branches that had to be cut, I cut down the first with no problem. The second one however was a different story as it came down it turned and put tension of its branches. I studied the tree before stopping that day so that I knew how to cut the next day. The next morning, after sitting everything up to get started, I had started working backwards from the way I had say I would cut it the next day. Well, here I am on a six-foot ladder with pole saw in hand, started the cut and saw what was about to happen but it was a little too late. I threw the pole saw to get it away from me just as the branch made connect with the ladder. I fell backwards landing on the stump of a tree with a vertical V-shaped cut, let me tell you that hurt and yes, I went to the hospital on my own. Lesson learned study a branch with tension before you make that cut because you cannot take it back trust me. The fall hurt my pride and caused bruising from my buttocks to my ankle on my left leg. Thankfully I did not loss any work and I still cut that tree down. Have a great day up there radical land.
When my step dad borrowed his friends chainsaw to cut down a dead tree in our yard, he was struggling to control the saw. It kept throwing him off balance and making him trip. A lot of kickback. He didn't like me suggesting he was doing it incorrectly. Still might send him this though... and then 🤐
I'm glad we don't have a chainsaw of our own yet. I hope he'll watch to the end.
As a widow continuing to live on 5 acres full of trees and relatively new too using a chainsaw. I think this is an excellent video. You covered all the bases of chainsaw use and safety and maintenance. Love your channel ! Thank you
Great introduction to this useful (and dangerous) tool. I use one occasionally and this was a great reminder. "Caution is your best piece of safety equipment." Great advice. Thanks for a great video.
I don't own a chain saw, I have no practical use for them in my daily life. But now I want one, just to have the satisfaction of cleaning it.
Great video, Dave!
I don't even own a chainsaw but I'll definitely come back to this video once I own one...great video 🔥
Great video. The only thing I would add is something I learned when I'm sharpening my chainsaw: that is, I take a Sharpie and mark the tooth of the one where I start sharpening. It makes it easy to know when I've gone all the way around.
You showed me a lot of things I didn't know. I will practice safely with what I learned. Never too old to learn, I just turned 66. Great video Dave!!!
Towards the end when you were cleaning it you said "Does this matter? no." But I would beg to differ. It reminds me of something my dad has told me my whole life: "Take care of your tools and they will take care of you." Sure, changing all the liquids and getting new tires for your car is more important than cleaning it but I believe there's a spiritual aspect to it and for you to take the time to clean your saw I like to think you do too. Thanks Dave! Love your videos!
Understanding binding is imperative to using any powered saw.
My dad told me when I was young, take care of what God gave you and he will bless you something else. I miss my Dad he died in 2016. Thanks for the memories.
Very comprehensive! Thank you. The older I get, the move I realize that you can always learn something.
Thanks
A very thorough explanation of use and maintenance; the only thing my dad hasn't taught me is watching out for wedged branches and the force they can have.
Top job Mr Whipple, I'd recommend anyone and everyone to re-watch this video on a regular basis.
I have ran a saw for years saw nothing wrong with this video great lesson for beginners
Went through a 3 year apprenticeship and I've used saws almost weekly for over a decade since and still gonna take some pro tips into work tomorrow. That's a great point about too much safety gear giving a false sense of security, seen a lot of people do some shady stuff thinking they were untouchable bc they had fancy chaps on. This is going to help a lot of people stay safe, great job Dave!
I've been using a small Stihl saw around the property for years but there was A LOT in this video I had no clue about. THANK YOU.
Thank you for the vids. My children are watching them and we are making big olans
Hey Dave, another great video of yours!
My dad has been doing his firewood for years without knowing to kick about the chainsaws. Since he's getting older, I'm taking over that job slowly but surely. Great to have a nice video like this to get some orientation on how to generally use and especially maintain the tool. Clear and informative as always! Keep up the good work!
I couldn't care less about cleaning a chainsaw, but your videos are so enthralling I found myself watching the entire thing!
Thank you. I was gifted a pole saw last summer. I’m still cutting behind decades of neglect. By the end of winter, I”ll be lifting a real chain saw. The pole saw was good at breaking me in before getting close and more powerful. Essential videos are important and yours is excellent.
I absolutely love these videos and this is probaly the best video for people who need simple sense with a chainsaw.
Thanks
Absolutely great instructions, I work for an arborist and I can't think of anything to add, except I was trained never to use air compressor on an air filter(maybe because of how hard to control the air's power), my favorite part to watch was your saw cleanup, so satisfying. The saws we use are always so filthy, and never stay clean, we need you around !
Very informative , and will definitely save some beginners a very painful reminder , if they take your informative for granted !
Thanks for caring !!
That was just great, Dave. For a comparative "city boy", that was very instructive.
I love your videos. You have common sense and you explain things very well. I have used a chainsaw for many years. Im 70 now. I have had no serious injuries with a chainsaw , but i also don't claim to know it all. Thanks for your videos. I look forward to them.
I maintain chainsaws, chippers, and stump grinders, and can appreciate the way you break it down in explanation. Great job!
Fantastic video Dave! Lots of great tips. Common sense and extra caution is your best friend while using any power tool. Cheers
Absolutely
Ma dude I just spent 6 hours watching your videos. Thank you for the content.
I had that I can't do that attitude. After I watched the video "simple off grid cabin behind the scenes" I felt so ashamed of my way of thinking. Sometimes we need people to talk to us about what a blessing it is to be healthy, young and capable.
Thank you ma dude, I will realise my dream one day, I will work for it.
Good points, safety is your best friend. I wear a screen face shield because I had an old Stihl without a chain brake. Not a problem as I used one for logging when I was young. I used this one a lot yntil one day we needed fire wood and I was sick. Bad combination which required over a dozen stitches in the face. I bought a Jonsered with kick back safety and a hard hat with a face shield. Never work when you are sick. One other thing is let the saw do the work. If it is sharp, it needs no downward pressure. People use a chainsaw like a handsaw thinking that speed and pressure are needed. Keep up the practicle help. You might show how wedges help with making cuts.
We're purchasing a small electric chainsaw for our camp and this is exactly what I needed, thank you so much!
At 66 and just an occasional chainsaw user thru the years I’ve had a few close calls, my biggest threat to my limbs and life had always been and especially now at my older age and sorry health is sawing when I’m well passed tired / worn out, weak, I’ve lucked out just catching my jeans in the chain, luckily the jeans stoped the chain instantly. I have always been the type to push myself way past "calling it a day" time. I now wear out so fast and easily (heart issues) now when my arms are just starting to feel rubbery I stop and move on to other chores. Good advice in this video.
Really enjoyed this one. Alone is on Hulu now so I am enjoying seeing you and Brooke from way back then.
Dave, I don't know how I missed this one, but...... Buddy, you knocked this one outta da park!! I've been using chain saws for 60+ years now, and if I didn't learn something new in this video, I reinforced WHY I do certain things. I applaud your stressing safety... Safety... SAFETY!!! It only happens to the other guy, UNTIL YOU ARE THE OTHER GUY!!!! I'll cite another example: table saws. My 10" belt drive saw is over 50 years old and doesn't have all the safety features of a new one. I treat that saw the way you treat your chain saws. It's not a 'hangar queen,' either. It's had enough use over the decades I've rebuilt the motor... twice now. What I'm leading up to, EACH AND EVERY TIME I want to cut a piece of wood, I look at my material, look at the saw and where my hands/fingers are going to be throughout the cut... NOT just the start or finish. Thanks again(!!), and stay safe...........
Very informative video for the “newbies” and even some “seasoned” veterans!
An old dog CAN learn new tricks!!!
As a long time ED and ICU nurse it warms the cockles of my heart to see you reinforce the importance of safety gear and common sense. Over the years I’ve seen minor and major logging injuries. When the guys would stand around and rehash the event it nearly always came down to someone trying to skirt the safety measures. I love your content! Keep up the great work and stay safe! 👍🏼👏🏼👍🏼
Thanks
I will probably never use a chainsaw but I sure will look at and appreciate the people that do! Thank you for your concise and entertaining video yet again.
Thank you Dave. I've been watching your videos for a long time but I don't think I've ever said thank you. You should know that I've learned so much from you. I am young and I've acted/am acting already on all of these lessons. I am headed to Alaska! Thank you so much for an exciting and radical and simple life ahead of me. Thank you.
Grew up with chainsaws in a family of loggers and been cutting my firewood for years. This is the best video I have ever seen on chainsawing. I learned several things from you! Thanks!
Wow! Thanks
Probably the best intro to chainsawing I have seen. Great content as always, Dave!
I have been cutting wood, for roughly 35 yrs. Professionally and just on my own stuff. This was a really good video. Lots of common sense. Never to old to learn something new or review things I should know/ be doing. Thanks.
Through my former job in the fire service and a lifetime of cutting firewood, I have run Huskies, Stihls, Echos, Poulans, and McCulloch saws. This is a solid basic course for folks just starting out.
So not that i needed this video for myself. I am an on call firefighter with a batch of new hires that really don't know how to run a saw. After watching i forwarded this to them thanks for all the safety talk. this video needs to be included with saws.
Thanks !
I was an arborist for 12 years working doing contract work for a local power company. This is an excellent video. You drove home the single most important thing when using a chainsaw, common sense. I've seen many guys making trips to the emergency room who wore all their safety gear. My boss used to say often 'you can't fix stupid', so true. I was blessed to only have one major incident. My safety glasses slid down my wet face during a storm and I ended up with big sliver of oak puncturing the corner of my eye. Thankfully it was the corner and my eye was fine. Oak sap burns your eye like fire though. Lol
Wow. Just wow. I'm just getting started in using a chainsaw and feel like I've just had a comprehensive course in the basics. I'm taking your safety pointers to heart. Excellent video. Cheers.
Excellent video. Thank you! I'm a 62yo woman and have only recently started using a chainsaw. I have my own little battery opperated one but feel I'm ready to graduate to a real chainsaw if needed.
Finally a decent video to watch.
Glad I found this channel
This needs to be played non-stop in the chainsaw section of everywhere that sells chainsaws and parts. Succinct and to the point, covering so much.
You Always do a good job of explaining your projects so well 👌 have a great day 🙏🇺🇲
I am so impressed with how simple and well you explain most things but, especially this subject. Thank you Dave! I use several chainsaws daily and could NOT show my sons in person better than this. The segment on sharpening is hands down the best video I’ve seen on the subject! Well done and keep coming with the excellent content! God bless!
I so appreciate this.Your tutorials are clear, common sense and extremely informative. Thank you Dave.
You are very welcome
Just bought a chainsaw and never owned or used one before. This vid was exactly what I needed mate. Thank you.
Great video, Dave. The information, the pacing and the production are all excellent. Thank you!
Thanks dave! Ive never had the pleasure of running a saw, just the chore of schlepping the gas and bar n chain oil through the woods for the peole that did run the saws. Now i feel less scared to try it. The explanation of how the saw acts differently depending on the top cut or the under cut is one of the mysteries that i wondered.
Beech and Ash. Fantastic video, one of your best ever. I laughed at how your finer points are exactly how I treat cutting trees. I live in a Beech, Sugar Maple, Basswood and Birch forest near lake Michigan. Cutting the Ash back when they died was a huge job. Still have a pretty good size White Ash surviving the borer.
This is proving to be a fantastic informative video. Great work Dave!
Been using a chainsaw for years and learned some great new tips... thanks, Dave
Best explanation for amateurs. We teach and show this stuff for ECN (MOS) 096 Combat Engineers in the Australian Army. We keep backups in other ECNs (drivers, armour, infantry pioneer platoons) and basically anyone else that we can train for domestic operations - fire and flood.
You forgot to mention that you have to fill the bar oil or the chain won't cut worth a $#&%.
Great video, I love your content and this channel. Keep up the great work Dave!
Great video. Probably saved some injuries. Good job.
Thanks
I had a running saw contact my leg twice. Two different times. Both when I was fatigued and limbing downed trees. Stepping and tripping over limbs and such. Now I wear safety chaps every time I’m sawing.
Just got mine out a few weeks ago, gave it a good tuneup and going over. Practice runs on some long logs for 2-siding, planning for the future…
This is exactly what I mean, you have the knowledge Dave and I thank-you for that Knowledge & Wisdom and hopefully it will keep us all safe!😊
I love your videos. What's so cool is I watched Brooke's video and seen you in it, which I love seeing you two together. Also you were all saying what I was thinking, you were cloned to create Belle and Mick. Then I watched Mick's video, and my thoughts were the same as yours. Last week or so I found out your brother is on RUclips, now I'm waiting to see if or when Belle is starting show. I love seeing you guys do your own thing. But I love even more seeing you all do things as a family! Like when Mick, you,and Brooke worked on your house cleaning it. And at home tonight thanks
You should be doing more how-to's, you are a gifted trainer!
Thanks for the lesson. For someone who has used a chainsaw less than 10 times I am now more aware of these tips. BTW, thanks for the comedy relief during this important video...keep up the great work.
Great video, Dave ... and just in time. You've likely saved me from serious injury with your tips. My Great Grandfather was a lumberjack working near Cadillac before I was born. He had a timber kick back on him and he almost died from the head wounds he got. I appreciate your "heads up", for sure! God Bless you and your family
Perfect! Thank you! Been watching you for years, and I learn something every time I tune in. Much appreciated.
I love the way you explain things in a way anyone can understand
Excellent advice! Kickback is no joke with a chainsaw, doesn't matter how much experience you have. Only takes one "Whoopsie!" to lose a member. I was cutting some logs with a rinky-dink electric chainsaw, when that thing kicked back and immediately grabbed ahold of the front end of my shoe. Thankfully they were steel-toes, or I might have lost a toe or two. Happens in a split second.
I like your videos on any topic... I've been using chainsaws since I was a teen, but in my 70s, moved to electric with a generator as they are strong but lightweight. I don't climb trees anymore, so less risk. Back in the day, I broke every rule you have mentioned, but somehow never got badly injured. (Luck, not skill.) I did tie my ladders to the trees after having to drop a saw once to grab a tree and hang on. I do have a rule now, maybe due to age, that you don't seem to have yet. Never use the saw without a helper or observer in case something does happen.
We live in the woods and each year we deal with downed tree limbs. Our Gasoline powered chain saw always gave me fits to start. I bought an electric corded chain saw, and what an improvement it is over the gasoline models for our usage. I plan to purchase a battery powered chainsaw in the near future. I take my chain saw blades to the hardware store for sharpening and keep extra blades on hand here at home.
Excellent, excellent, excellent! Short, clear and great advice.
Excellent. I’ve been cutting firewood, about 3-4 cord a year, for about 20 years now and I couldn’t have packed that much safety and user info into a half hour video. Great video.
Thanks! This was so informative. While I don't currently have a chainsaw project in mind, I got one for free from a client not long ago and I;m so glad I watched this before ever using it. I'll return to this when the time comes.
I especially appreciated your opinion on keeping a reliable tool clean and going the extra mile to treat it the way it deserves. Coming from a tech enthusiast background, this is exactly how I treat my electronics. I take particular joy in cleaning and refurbishing old gaming consoles, which provided so much fun at one time and are often left neglected for years after the owner moves on.