✅CLICK HERE FOR SAFETY CHAPS ➜ amzn.to/41w7pK8 For more videos like this, check out: 👉Top 5 Reasons A Chainsaw Won't Start ➜ ruclips.net/video/5Qit2CZFw6M/видео.html 👉Correct Way To Sharpen A Chainsaw ➜ ruclips.net/video/-GIxowey6IQ/видео.html 👉Repair A Chainsaw That Cuts Crooked ➜ ruclips.net/video/AgCZxee2NPA/видео.html 👉Fix A ChainSaw If It Won't Oil The Bar And Chain ➜ ruclips.net/video/6zscOSrFQjA/видео.html You can connect with Steve here too: ✅Visit Steve’s WEBSITE ➜ www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/ ✅Visit Steve’s PARTS & TOOL STORE ➜ www.amazon.com/shop/stevessmallenginesaloon ✅Follow Steve on FACEBOOK ➜ facebook.com/stevessmallenginesaloon ✅Follow Steve on INSTAGRAM ➜ instagram.com/stevessmallenginesaloon/ ✅Follow Steve on TWITTER ➜ twitter.com/SteveSaloon ✅Follow Steve on TIKTOK ➜ www.tiktok.com/@stevessmallenginesaloon
wow you are so lucky. I have only briefly used a chainsaw once and am still learning online before I jump in fully. But am so glad you did not get seriously injured! I thought the chain stops revolving around the bar when you take you finger off the trigger? Or am I missing something, or did it swing around so fast that it was still revolving around the bar after you removed your finger/hand? I had a similar close call with a bushcraft axe last winter, when the axe glanced off the stump I was chopping and almost collected my lower left leg! Wranglerstar a veteran RUclipsr and chainsaw professional, did a recent video where he too shared a moment when the chainsaw got him for the first time also! I think he was delimbing a fallen tree or cutting some shrubs at the time?
Steve, this is almost exactly what happened to me a few years ago, except that I did cut my leg, just above the knee. It started to rain, so I was just clearing up a few logs on the ground before finishing for the day. I hadn't cleared the ground enough, slipped, and the saw made contact just above the knee. The cut was quite deep, but I was surprised at how little blood there was. My wife drove me to the hospital, where they put some stitches in, and I was off work for two weeks. Showering was a long process while that was healing. I bought Stihl Universal pants after that. They are expensive, but not as expensive as legs. That accident happened after fifteen years of safe cutting, so people should never get complacent and think they know it all. 100 teeth going at 60mph don't care how experienced you are. Stay safe.
Over many, many years.. I have probably dropped hundreds of dead trees and cut them into firewood. I've had some close calls but never bled from a chainsaw wound. One reason for that is because, I listen and take seriously every time someone tells me how they got hurt. So thanks for sharing Steve and thanks to your wife for encouraging you to do so. It's way nicer learning from other peoples chainsaw mishaps.. then through your own. 👍
Great SAFETY video. Thanks for making it. I'm a Surgical Technician with 50 years experience. I have helped repair/reconstruct many people who didn't use available safety gear, and were severely injured. Kudos to your wife!!
Saying a chainsaw can cut you doesn't really do it justice. A guy i used to work with just bumped his knee with one, and it left grooves in his kneecap. Great video! Someone was looking out for, and gave you a good idea for your videos!
Your Mrs is right! When we share these situations, we all get to learn from the mistake. Can you thank the Mrs for all of us. Keep up the good work, Mate.
April was right, it’s better that you spread the messages about protective gear and safe practices than to fear judgement from others. Happy you didn’t suffer an injury! 😊 Thanks, Steve and April!
Steve, I have a scar in the center of my left kneecap from ONE tooth of my old 031 that was ALMOST stopped when I stupidly swung it aside after a cut. The denim saved me from a worse scarring. My second 031 came with a chain brake! Keep up the good work!!!
Very timely video, you are doing a service to everyone by reminding us we need to take safety first in our approach or we can very well be maimed for life. My neighbours wife came over to chat with us yesterday, i had my newer chainsaw running just to ensure everything was in good working order. I know she purchased a Stihl chainsaw for her husbands birthday last year so i asked if he had all the required safety items and she mentioned he did and showed me a picture of him cutting wood at their cottage. I asked if he had safety chaps or pants seeing i wanted to be sure he would be protected, she repeated he had all the safety equipment and proceeded to show me a couple of pictures on her phone. First thing i notice is he is decked out in full gear from head protection, visor, ear protection, gloves and then what i consider a must have in chaps/pants he did not have. I reinforced that the most common significant injuries happen when the saw comes in contact with the lower extremities (legs) and seeing he is going to use a chainsaw for years ahead it was imperative to purchase a pair of safety chaps/pants or it can be life altering if an accident occurs that could have been prevented. She is now going to order a pair of safety pants/chaps for his upcoming birthday, i recommended Husqvarna chaps however the ones you listed will do just as nicely. Just want to say thank you for posting about this topic, if one person heads the advice and avoids a catastrophic injury then we all win.
I'm 67 yo and have only used a chainsaw a couple of times in my life. Retired now and recently purchased a small 18" Echo electric chainsaw. I have watched many YT videos about types of face and back cuts, kickback, barber chair, exit path, etc. I wear gloves an eye protection, but I didn't think I needed leg protection until watching this video. Since I am tall (6'6") it's nice to see they have 40" chaps so I ordered them. Thank you and your wife for making this video.
I bought all the protective equipment before the chainsaw. Same for the motorcycle. Love it when people find it funny I use protective equipment in simple/leisure tasks... but it's my body, I am the captain. Thank you Steve for putting the correct message and mindset out there.
Yep, you're a smart man & you're not alone in the use of safety gear. If it never has to save me from an injury, I'll still be glad I used it. The alternatives are much more costly & uncomfortable!!
good lady herself.chaps are cheap,but you can't replace a leg.you've a family to support so it is important that you kit up first.respect and thanks for all your content.maddog
Thanks for sharing the story! It's a great example of how even the most experienced people can make dumb (no offense) mistakes. All it takes is one moment of inattention.
As a former paramedic, I have seen many incidents where experienced people have made similar mistakes. Heck, I've even done it myself! Always those little jobs. Thank you Steve.
Former EMT, had the seam of a pair or work pants stop an idling but still moving chain once. Scared the puddins out of me. Showering later that evening, I found 4 little square burn marks on my leg where the hot teeth stopped. Right over my femoral artery.
My chaps get credit for a leg save. Cutting some scrub brush. Stopped to sharpen the chain and fuel up. Go to rev up and cut some more and saw won’t rev. Looked down and had a snarl of Kevlar. Had not even noticed I’d swung the bar tip against the inside of my knee. Razor sharp chain. Ms250 stihl. Working alone 1/4 mile from the house. Turned the saw off and didn’t start it again till I had replacment chaps. Swore I’d never start the saw without wearing chaps again. Being honest, I HAVE made maybe 3-4 cuts where I was too lazy To gear up, but I really was awefully uncomfortable doing so. And you’re right. Chaps are cheap. Just The cleaning bill to get the blood out of my truck would’ve cost more than the chaps. Thanks for sharing.
Your Angel was definitely watching over you. Safety is always paramount and essential. Accidents do happen and can happen unexpectedly at any moment as you have found out. I am very thankful for you that nothing serious has happened. You are truly blessed! Your testimony is valuable for others, thank you for sharing it. Stay safe everyone.
Cutting up a tree that’s fallen on a fence is always a tricky proposition. Glad you survived this one, Steve. April’s right: put your chaps on from now on!
Thank you April and Steve for talking about safety, especially if we have the darn safety equipment. I know that there have been times where I have had a two minute cut job and I didn’t want to put on the chaps, hard hat with screen and safety gloves, which takes about 5 minutes to suit up. However, because of stories like yours and others (and mine too), I now allow for and take the time not to rush the job. You are right that it takes a split second for accidents to happen but a few minutes to prevent and not rush a job!!!! THANKS AGAIN FOR SHARING! Ed W. Nova Scotia, Canada
I am a dumb *ss if I don’t buy a pair of those pants! Thank you and glad you did not loose a limb. Your videos help teach me safety and maintenance as well as tips and saving money. Awesome channel 👍
I was a wildland firefighter for the US forest circus from 78 to 84 and witnessed how safely chaps saved a coworkers leg and quite possibly his life.. we were on a thinning project while loping downed trees to 18” height above the ground he tripped and cut his chaps through the top canvas or nylon layer through the 4 Kevlar layers and the chain stopped on the bottom canvas or nylon layer. We all were expecting to see his leg fall onto the ground! Always wear your safety gear and just like a firearm “keep your finger off the trigger until your ready to cut”!!!!! I get grief from friends and neighbors when I suit up for safety and I get the last laugh as I still have all my fingers and limbs intact! As always stay safe and healthy! Ps; Glad you came away with only cut pants and a small nick on your leg! I store my helmet, gloves and safety chaps on top of my saws as a “ don’t be lazy and not wear my equipment “ excuse !
I am surprised how may chainsaw videos there are on youtube where the presenter is lacking safety chaps and often head protection. So good on you for raising some awareness concerning this danger. I have been using chainsaws for a loooong time. But about 20 years ago when I bought a new STIHL I also purchased some safety chaps and a helmet, face shield and ear protection combo. I have not had a close call. Never the less I use these religiously. I also use them when operating the weed wacker. Before I started using the chaps I had some debris penetrate a pant leg and punch a hole in my leg. Safety gear good.
I think lots of bad screw-ups happen when people are doing "little jobs". It's just an additional task on top of some routine task, but if your using a chain saw or an equally potentially dangerous tool, the dangers are the same whether a 2 minute job or a 2 week job.
Thanks Steve. Almost had that happen to me once. Always wear my chaps when using a two handed saw, or doing ground work now. According to Robert Grimshaw's 'Grimshaw on Saws', chainsaws were originally created by a German surgeon as an improvement in amputation saws around 1820. Never forget that people!
Thanks for repeating safety awareness with chainsaws. I've 5 chainsaws and have been using them for 20 years with no injuries. I've had a couple of hairy moments, even though I am very safety aware. I consider myself VERY lucky.
Steve, thank you so much for your focus on safety. I know I’ve come close a couple times with my saw and just now ordered my pants, helmet, and gloves thanks to you bud. I very much appreciate you and the knowledge you provide us.
Hello, I am 68 and have used a chainsaw since my early 20's. I had 2 bow blade Poulans and I used them until parts were so difficult to obtain, then I purchased a mid size Stihl MS310 with a 20 in bar not bow. I had a close call similar to Steve's only it involved my sock and foot. The Wife bought me a pair of safety chaps, which i wear even for small jobs. I also purchased a 16 inch bar and chain and I use it unless the job calls for the longer bar. Thank you Steve's Small Engine Saloon for the video.
I'm old enough to remember chainsaws without brakes. Dangerous tools even with all the safety gear. I've seen people need stitches without the damn things even running. Stay safe!
Woow so glad you're ok Steve!!!! There could've been a way worse outcome. You definitely have an angel watching you my friend. Thank you so much for sharing
Thank you for reinforcing that sound advice!! As much as I love a few beers at the end of the day, I NEVER touch any alcohol until all power tools are done with for the session.... Anything sharp, as well, of course. Glas you're OK, Steve.... best wishes from the UK
In many ways, this is the best video you have done. No doubt it will save someone from a horrible accident. Listen to to our wives tough as it seems sometimes. Cheers Steve.
Gday Steve, My wife bought me the Kevlar lined chaps about 20 years ago. I always wear them when out in our State Forrest in the wood collection areas. Last year I was tired at the end of the day and had a little stumble on uneven ground as the saw was lifted after a cut and putting on the brake. It was at low revs thankfully and just touched my chaps on my upper thigh. The fibres grabbed the chain and stopped it instantly. So there’s this nic in the chaps that’s there now as a reminder. I recently upgraded to a large Stihl fuel injected saw as what is left in the Forrest here is the big stuff that no one really wants as more time to move and block split. The new saw has got a kick like a mule. I always wore goggles and ear muffs but have now invested in a Stihl hard hat with metal face shield and built in ear muffs. Hopefully I’ll never need that one! Like you I always do the same with the chain brake too. Great advice in your vid. Thank goodness for our wives eh? 😁 Cheers 🍻
YIKES!!! Glad you're ok! No matter how hard we try to be safe, things will happen to us. Hence why I: Do NOT go mowing lawns in shorts! I wear gloves, & saftey glasse while mowing. I do NOT mow in sandales, I wear CSA footwear. I have a professional 1st aid kit in my mowing truck. I expect anyone helping me to follow these rules too. Highvis shirts are on order too😁 Take care Steve. love this channel!!!
Thanks for sharing this, Steve! I made the same decision to always wear my chaps after my own moment of dumbassery. Was with the wife and duaghter-in-law, clearing out some little guys and saplings, 5" max. And it was hot - 90F, humidity right up there. I was getting sapped and wobbly, but I just had my light little MS180 so I figured I could keep it going. Well, after a cut, I failed to engage the brake, let the blade swing, and felt a slight tug at my right leg. Then my leg got cold. Oh boy, said my mind; shock...gonna hurt bad in a moment1 I screamed like a little child and pitched the saw...but all that had happened was that the saw cut a 5" vent in my jeans above my knee. I was so sweaty that even the wet warm air felt cold on my leg. Even since - no matter the temps or the number of cuts - chaps go on. The difference between our stories is that maybe 10 people have heard mine, and already almost 50,000 have heard yours. I'll bet you and April saved a couple dozen legs. Not a bad day's work. Thanks again.
Yep, I crushed my right index finger in my log splitter last month and still recovering. I'm just lucky I still have a finger. It's been a rough month so far but accidents like that really gives you an appreciation for how important things like your fingers are 😅
Glad to see you are OK, Steve. Been cutting wood for some 45 seasons and have never used a chain brake, other than using it to hang up the saw from the ceiling. Been lucky I guess.
Great video, Steve. If it can happen to you it can happen to any of us! I've noticed that it's always the "small jobs" that'll just take a "couple minutes" that I start getting complacent, and just run out with the chainsaw to get it done quick. I've had a couple of close calls but **nothing** like yours!
I have been chainsawing for over 20 years without Chaps, but finally gave in a bought an Oregon pair this year. Must admit, it does make me feel safer! Before any cutting I always make sure my feet are firmly planted, no obstructions and BOTH hands are gripping the saw. That way I can control kickback or twisting if it occurs. Hold it in one hand and kickback could flick it up in your face in a second. I know it’s against all advice, but I don’t use the brake between cuts. I DO ensure that my carb is tuned to give me the slowest idle possible so that the chain stops as soon as I take my finger off the trigger. The brake is still very important as insurance against a bad kickback event though.
You're only the second luckiest guy. I bought my chaps after an incident where I not only cut my pants, but opened my leg to the point where I was seeping blood. You are 100% right about not cutting without ALL the right PPE. Stay safe.
A lot of us had near misses. After Hurricane Ian, I was cutting the two trees that fell on my roof. I was exhausted when I tripped backwards. Luckily I threw the saw away (I was cutting at the time). No damage to my Saw, but I blew my back out. My tip to y’all. Stop working when you’re on E.
Thank you so much for this video Steve. I'm sending the link to my son-in-law who I worry about very much because of the RISKS he takes at times with his chainsaw. Complacency is a disaster waiting to happy! By the way, his name is also Steve.
Posting for a friend of mine who, beyond luck, has survived equally dumbass lapses in judgment. THANK YOU for the much-needed reminder to everyone who works with power tools: let's be careful out there.
Thanks Steve. Yes chaps saved my son's leg once, it still gives me the chills to think how life would have changed forever if he hadn't had them on that day. Again, thank you for sharing your experience and advice.
Glad you didn't get cut, you are so right, you are lucky...I put my chaps on every single time I start up my saw, I'm not going to be bleeding on the way to the hospital saying I should have put my chaps on...
Good video Steve. The other guys need to make more like this one. We know wood cutting is a dangerous game but some are making it look deceptivly easy. My son told me that RUclips didnt allow what they called "dangerous" and my response was "Hey, I watch wood cutting videos alot"
First, I'm glad you weren't hurt! I'm confused, is your idle set high, so your chain is always spinning? I've been a faller and tree arborist for 37 years. As soon as I let go of the trigger, my saws' chains come to a stop. I've actually never seen or heard of any professional tree cutters using the brake as a safety on/off switch. Usually, it is for kickback where if the saw kicks back on you, your hand bumps the chain brake and engages it. Your description actually seems to point to one risk with always switching the brake on and off. If you forget, you mind assumes and therefore relies on the brake being engaged except when you are cutting. For me, my mind always assumes the brake is not on, so I'm always handling the saw as though it has the potential to cut me.
Whew! That was a close one! Thanks for the reminder to (always) take the proper safety precautions because most mistakes happen when you hit your groove and throw caution to the wind. Personally, I kinda like my legs. Plus, I'd be a lot shorter without them.
I had cut a big dead limb off our oak tree, standing on an adjacent limb about 8 feet up. When I came down out of the tree, I saw that the sole of my work boot had a big semi circular cut out of the side. The really scary thing was, I had no notion of when or how that had happened. Situational awareness can never be overemphasized.
Good on you, Steve for making this vid. I have too often been guilty of not donning safety gear for “ just a couple of cuts”. But as you found, it only takes one bad cut to change (or end) your life! I’ve always felt there should be an operator’s license required to own a chainsaw, as there is for a firearm. I took the saw safety course a few years back, and still learned a lot even after 50 years of using a saw.
It is so easy for us to become complacent in the most simple of tasks, yet this is when accidents often happen. Good thing it was only a grazer. Thanks for posting this video.
Hey Steve great video, fantastic of you to put this up as a reminder. Chainsaws are unforgiving,chaps, safety helmet, gloves will protect from cuts and heaven forbid kickback
I like April. She's got wisdom and understanding. You should consider doing a video showing the types of layers and how chaps stop the chain at the sprocket. It's a really neat invention and a lot of homeowners don't know about them. There's some cheapos that use 3 or 5 layers of cheap material that I wouldn't use. Just a though.
Would like to know a little more info about these cheapo chaps you speak of. Please enlighten all of us unworthy homeowners that you seem to have more knowledge than.
@@tlough1 It looks to me like you misunderstood my comment. I didn't say that homeowners were unaware of cheapos, nor did I make any statement of homeowners being unworthy. Seems as though you took offense with your misunderstanding of my statement, which is real common these days with anti-social media. A lot of homeowners are unaware of "the types of layers" and the mechanics of chaps and how they work. Chaps have layered sacrificial material in them. The layers get torn by the teeth of the saw, successively. The teeth carry the chunks that they harvested to the sprocket causing the sprocket to bind up and stop instantly. Cheap chaps have less layers of thinner sacrificial material which can allow one saw tooth to carry multiple layers, which can in turn, allow the successive teeth to cut through into the flesh of the handler. I'm guessing that maybe you knew this and thought for some reason that I was insulting homeowners or something. I am a homeowner and for years I was ignorant of how chaps worked. I personally thought that they were just thick material and never looked into the design of them. Ignorance can be cured with education. Stupidity can only be punished and never cured.
Thanks for reminding us how quickly things can go south when using a chainsaw. I've become much more safety conscious as I've gotten older. Figure I gone this long without loosing any part of my anatomy plus now I'm much slower then 40-50 years ago.
Excellent video! Thank you. If it can happen to you, it can certainly happen to the rest of us. Even for very small jobs, the 'hassle' of putting on the safety chaps or pants is nothing compared to the trip to the hospital and potential extremely serious injury.
Glad you came out lucky, buddy! I pulled a good one a few years back with my 044...not so lucky hahaha! Learned my lesson and wear chaps every single time now.
Fences and chainsaws do not mix. Decades ago, I was using an electric chain saw to cut down a few saplings that had grown at the bottom of an overgrown woven wire fence. The electric chainsaw was a corded one, was very lightweight and so easy to kick back with the old style 1970's saw chain. Well, my father trying to help me out came along and used his foot to push over an 1 1/2" thick sapling as I was sawing it. The saw had then kicked back from the tree pinching the nose bar, caught the wire fence almost yanking the saw from my hands and then the tip of the nose bar had swung back around and then plunged right into the front of my father's shin. It was a split second tap, seemed like it was barely a touch to his work pants until my father fell over backwards onto the ground grabbing his shin. It had cut a 5" gash about 3/4" deep into his leg exposing the bone. His pants didn't even have a hole in them at all afterward which was strange? The nose bar had actually hammered/sheared/pinched his flesh against his leg bone cutting it like how a boxer cuts a cheek bone of an opponent from punching it. It took 48 stitches to close his leg and he was crippled for almost 3 months afterward. One of the worst days of my life, having that on my mind afterward injuring my father. It wasn't actually my fault, yet I had mentally beaten myself up over it for months and years afterward. Ever since they have come out with chainsaw proof chaps, I have bought a set and I always use them and I never allow anyone near me while I'm using a chainsaw, no matter what. I had used chainsaws for 30 years after my father's injury, but now since they have had these chaps (mine are by Stihl) and the hard plastic bump cap with the full face screen and hearing protectors, I have always worn them while using a chainsaw or power pruner. Never get in a hurry using a chain saw folks. Ever. I also highly recommend using a timber jack to roll and lift logs from the ground to cut them. It prevents the dropping wood from pinching the nose bar and causing it to kick back/buck against you. I had watched some professional loggers from Oregon at the state fair here put on a timber sports demonstration and they were really great at teaching chainsaw, axe and logging safety. Steve is giving all great advice once again.
Get the chaps people!! Did the same thing many years ago while working in the yard with my saw doing clean up. Happened to look down and noticed a tear in my jeans over my left knee. Continued on. Then a few minutes later it dawned on me those jeans didn’t have that tear when I put them on that morning. Pulled them down right there in the yard and sure enough I’d hit my knee with the saw and didn’t know I’d done it. I got pissed at myself for being that stupid, then having to go to the ER, where 7 stitches and $700 later they had me fixed. The doctor told me I was lucky. He said chainsaw accidents can produce a real nasty injury. They don’t cut like a knife. The chain removes a trench of tissue leaving a real messy injury. I was really lucky that day. Get those chaps people!
Had a similar incident but mine resulted in a few stitches. Now I wear my chaps every time. Safety first never last have a future not a past. The John deere motto!!
My retired father who has done forestry aside farming said to me that everyone should every single time use all the safety gear with chainsaw. I think he mentioned that he had three pants and one boot damaged. All situations where chain would've gouged very badly in remote locations and every time some stupid mistake that happened without any thinking it could happen. Moving rock that caused to loose stability, odd branches etc. Mentioned that he was always preparing to ie. kickback situations etc. but it's indeed true. Random stuff is the worst. Neighbor forester by profession old man fully concurred.
Had a buddy years ago, kneeling down to cut a log, lost his balance, and that meaty part right below the knee cap got into the top of his chain. Ripped a bunch of soft tissue out, but thankfully his reflexes were quick enough, he jumped back before bone was hit. That was like 40 years ago, and the thought of it still haunts me. He came out okay, but it was a rough healing process.
Thanks for sharing Steve ! Thanks to April for encouraging you to share ! Saws can be vicious. Common sense is now a rare commodity and I think it's really kind and important to share our life lessons with others. A basic one that I recall is we had a guy who used to put steel rod offcuts in a drum...instead of leaning these against the wall they were left protruding into the workshop at about stomach height. You could easily trip on our often crowded floor and fall onto these and impale yourself. A quick and 100% safe fix was simply leaning them against the wall! I am cutting wood soon for our new Nectre Big Bakers Oven ( Vermont Bun Baker in the US ) so will keep in mind this video. May God bless and keep you and yours. Dave. New Zealand.
Steve I wasn’t so lucky as you. I cut a small sapling and with one motion I slung it to the side and the chain got my knee. We were out in the boonies camping. We wrapped it up and went to the nearest town to get it sewed up. I was very lucky I didn’t loose my leg. Good video. Thanks for warning everyone. I hope they take heed.
✅CLICK HERE FOR SAFETY CHAPS ➜ amzn.to/41w7pK8
For more videos like this, check out:
👉Top 5 Reasons A Chainsaw Won't Start ➜ ruclips.net/video/5Qit2CZFw6M/видео.html
👉Correct Way To Sharpen A Chainsaw ➜ ruclips.net/video/-GIxowey6IQ/видео.html
👉Repair A Chainsaw That Cuts Crooked ➜ ruclips.net/video/AgCZxee2NPA/видео.html
👉Fix A ChainSaw If It Won't Oil The Bar And Chain ➜ ruclips.net/video/6zscOSrFQjA/видео.html
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wow you are so lucky. I have only briefly used a chainsaw once and am still learning online before I jump in fully. But am so glad you did not get seriously injured!
I thought the chain stops revolving around the bar when you take you finger off the trigger? Or am I missing something, or did it swing around so fast that it was still revolving around the bar after you removed your finger/hand?
I had a similar close call with a bushcraft axe last winter, when the axe glanced off the stump I was chopping and almost collected my lower left leg!
Wranglerstar a veteran RUclipsr and chainsaw professional, did a recent video where he too shared a moment when the chainsaw got him for the first time also! I think he was delimbing a fallen tree or cutting some shrubs at the time?
This video is the best thing possible that could have Come from this accident. reminds us to stay safe. Thank you, Steve.
You're Welcome...
Hello there my friend Steve. I never thought about chaps for my legs. Are that what they are called?
How do I go about sending a picture of my jeans and leg eh. Do I need to send it through email
@@dennisketterer814 Consider the full pants. I found the chaps are a nuisance to put on and off; you can just slide the pants on quickly.
Cheer leader legs nice
I've never actually engaged the chain brake, I just assumed it was there only in case of kickback. Glad I saw this!
Steve, this is almost exactly what happened to me a few years ago, except that I did cut my leg, just above the knee. It started to rain, so I was just clearing up a few logs on the ground before finishing for the day. I hadn't cleared the ground enough, slipped, and the saw made contact just above the knee. The cut was quite deep, but I was surprised at how little blood there was. My wife drove me to the hospital, where they put some stitches in, and I was off work for two weeks. Showering was a long process while that was healing. I bought Stihl Universal pants after that. They are expensive, but not as expensive as legs. That accident happened after fifteen years of safe cutting, so people should never get complacent and think they know it all. 100 teeth going at 60mph don't care how experienced you are. Stay safe.
Over many, many years.. I have probably dropped hundreds of dead trees and cut them into firewood. I've had some close calls but never bled from a chainsaw wound. One reason for that is because, I listen and take seriously every time someone tells me how they got hurt. So thanks for sharing Steve and thanks to your wife for encouraging you to do so. It's way nicer learning from other peoples chainsaw mishaps.. then through your own. 👍
In the words of mother animal "better him than me".... JK sorta ....
Great SAFETY video. Thanks for making it. I'm a Surgical Technician with 50 years experience. I have helped repair/reconstruct many people who didn't use available safety gear, and were severely injured.
Kudos to your wife!!
Saying a chainsaw can cut you doesn't really do it justice. A guy i used to work with just bumped his knee with one, and it left grooves in his kneecap. Great video! Someone was looking out for, and gave you a good idea for your videos!
Your Mrs is right!
When we share these situations, we all get to learn from the mistake.
Can you thank the Mrs for all of us.
Keep up the good work, Mate.
April was right, it’s better that you spread the messages about protective gear and safe practices than to fear judgement from others. Happy you didn’t suffer an injury! 😊 Thanks, Steve and April!
Thank You...and You're Welcome...
Nice one Steve, familiarity breeds contempt. Safety first
Steve, I have a scar in the center of my left kneecap from ONE tooth of my old 031 that was ALMOST stopped when I stupidly swung it aside after a cut. The denim saved me from a worse scarring. My second 031 came with a chain brake! Keep up the good work!!!
Thank You...
I have the same scar from my teenage years. We were lucky!!
Very timely video, you are doing a service to everyone by reminding us we need to take safety first in our approach or we can very well be maimed for life.
My neighbours wife came over to chat with us yesterday, i had my newer chainsaw running just to ensure everything was in good working order. I know she purchased a Stihl chainsaw for her husbands birthday last year so i asked if he had all the required safety items and she mentioned he did and showed me a picture of him cutting wood at their cottage. I asked if he had safety chaps or pants seeing i wanted to be sure he would be protected, she repeated he had all the safety equipment and proceeded to show me a couple of pictures on her phone.
First thing i notice is he is decked out in full gear from head protection, visor, ear protection, gloves and then what i consider a must have in chaps/pants he did not have. I reinforced that the most common significant injuries happen when the saw comes in contact with the lower extremities (legs) and seeing he is going to use a chainsaw for years ahead it was imperative to purchase a pair of safety chaps/pants or it can be life altering if an accident occurs that could have been prevented.
She is now going to order a pair of safety pants/chaps for his upcoming birthday, i recommended Husqvarna chaps however the ones you listed will do just as nicely.
Just want to say thank you for posting about this topic, if one person heads the advice and avoids a catastrophic injury then we all win.
Lesson learned Steve! So glad that you didn't get injured. Using a chain saw is no joke! Be safe! 👍👍
How good of you to share this. All of us can learn from this. Thankfully, you were not seriously hurt.
The lad that never made a mistake never made anything. 🤗👍🇮🇪
Yup... ^THIS^ 😁👍
I’m with you. I’ve got lazy,complacent and telling myself I’m only using a Stihl battery saw. I’m putting those chaps on every time now. Thanks Steve
I'm 67 yo and have only used a chainsaw a couple of times in my life. Retired now and recently purchased a small 18" Echo electric chainsaw. I have watched many YT videos about types of face and back cuts, kickback, barber chair, exit path, etc. I wear gloves an eye protection, but I didn't think I needed leg protection until watching this video. Since I am tall (6'6") it's nice to see they have 40" chaps so I ordered them. Thank you and your wife for making this video.
You're Welcome...
I bought all the protective equipment before the chainsaw. Same for the motorcycle. Love it when people find it funny I use protective equipment in simple/leisure tasks... but it's my body, I am the captain. Thank you Steve for putting the correct message and mindset out there.
Wise man 👍.
Yep, you're a smart man & you're not alone in the use of safety gear. If it never has to save me from an injury, I'll still be glad I used it. The alternatives are much more costly & uncomfortable!!
Some injuries cause life long pain and misery. Better to be safe.
good lady herself.chaps are cheap,but you can't replace a leg.you've a family to support so it is important that you kit up first.respect and thanks for all your content.maddog
Thanks for sharing the story! It's a great example of how even the most experienced people can make dumb (no offense) mistakes. All it takes is one moment of inattention.
Agreed!
Glad you avoided tragedy this time, Steve! Thanks for alerting us to potential hazards!
You're Welcome...
As a former paramedic, I have seen many incidents where experienced people have made similar mistakes. Heck, I've even done it myself! Always those little jobs. Thank you Steve.
Former EMT, had the seam of a pair or work pants stop an idling but still moving chain once. Scared the puddins out of me. Showering later that evening, I found 4 little square burn marks on my leg where the hot teeth stopped. Right over my femoral artery.
My chaps get credit for a leg save. Cutting some scrub brush. Stopped to sharpen the chain and fuel up. Go to rev up and cut some more and saw won’t rev. Looked down and had a snarl of Kevlar. Had not even noticed I’d swung the bar tip against the inside of my knee. Razor sharp chain. Ms250 stihl. Working alone 1/4 mile from the house. Turned the saw off and didn’t start it again till I had replacment chaps. Swore I’d never start the saw without wearing chaps again. Being honest, I HAVE made maybe 3-4 cuts where I was too lazy
To gear up, but I really was awefully uncomfortable doing so. And you’re right. Chaps are cheap. Just
The cleaning bill to get the blood out of my truck would’ve cost more than the chaps. Thanks for sharing.
Your Angel was definitely watching over you. Safety is always paramount and essential. Accidents do happen and can happen unexpectedly at any moment as you have found out.
I am very thankful for you that nothing serious has happened.
You are truly blessed!
Your testimony is valuable for others, thank you for sharing it.
Stay safe everyone.
Cutting up a tree that’s fallen on a fence is always a tricky proposition. Glad you survived this one, Steve. April’s right: put your chaps on from now on!
Thank you April and Steve for talking about safety, especially if we have the darn safety equipment. I know that there have been times where I have had a two minute cut job and I didn’t want to put on the chaps, hard hat with screen and safety gloves, which takes about 5 minutes to suit up. However, because of stories like yours and others (and mine too), I now allow for and take the time not to rush the job. You are right that it takes a split second for accidents to happen but a few minutes to prevent and not rush a job!!!! THANKS AGAIN FOR SHARING! Ed W. Nova Scotia, Canada
I am a dumb *ss if I don’t buy a pair of those pants!
Thank you and glad you did not loose a limb.
Your videos help teach me safety and maintenance as well as tips and saving money.
Awesome channel 👍
I was a wildland firefighter for the US forest circus from 78 to 84 and witnessed how safely chaps saved a coworkers leg and quite possibly his life.. we were on a thinning project while loping downed trees to 18” height above the ground he tripped and cut his chaps through the top canvas or nylon layer through the 4 Kevlar layers and the chain stopped on the bottom canvas or nylon layer.
We all were expecting to see his leg fall onto the ground!
Always wear your safety gear and just like a firearm “keep your finger off the trigger until your ready to cut”!!!!!
I get grief from friends and neighbors when I suit up for safety and I get the last laugh as I still have all my fingers and limbs intact!
As always stay safe and healthy!
Ps; Glad you came away with only cut pants and a small nick on your leg!
I store my helmet, gloves and safety chaps on top of my saws as a “ don’t be lazy and not wear my equipment “ excuse !
I am surprised how may chainsaw videos there are on youtube where the presenter is lacking safety chaps and often head protection. So good
on you for raising some awareness concerning this danger. I have been using chainsaws for a loooong time. But about 20 years ago when I bought
a new STIHL I also purchased some safety chaps and a helmet, face shield and ear protection combo. I have not had a close call. Never the less I
use these religiously. I also use them when operating the weed wacker. Before I started using the chaps I had some debris penetrate a pant leg
and punch a hole in my leg. Safety gear good.
I think lots of bad screw-ups happen when people are doing "little jobs". It's just an additional task on top of some routine task, but if your using a chain saw or an equally potentially dangerous tool, the dangers are the same whether a 2 minute job or a 2 week job.
100% agree...Use safety gear at ALL times!!! Even for a 2 minute job.
Glad that you didn’t get cut! Thanks for the video!
Thanks Steve. Almost had that happen to me once. Always wear my chaps when using a two handed saw, or doing ground work now. According to Robert Grimshaw's 'Grimshaw on Saws', chainsaws were originally created by a German surgeon as an improvement in amputation saws around 1820. Never forget that people!
Yikes...very comforting :)
@@paulrevere5197 In obstetrics!
I have the same saw Steve. I almost cut open my leg once but luckily I had chaps on.
Thanks for sharing Steve. Never wrong to share mistakes to protect others. Appreciated.
Thanks for repeating safety awareness with chainsaws. I've 5 chainsaws and have been using them for 20 years with no injuries. I've had a couple of hairy moments, even though I am very safety aware. I consider myself VERY lucky.
Thanks for the heads up Steve. Much appreciated.
Steve, thank you so much for your focus on safety. I know I’ve come close a couple times with my saw and just now ordered my pants, helmet, and gloves thanks to you bud. I very much appreciate you and the knowledge you provide us.
You're Welcome...and Thank You...
Best investment...Also steel cap boots are a must..Always keep in mind to stay outside of the chain path so if it breaks, it won't hit you....
Hello, I am 68 and have used a chainsaw since my early 20's. I had 2 bow blade Poulans and I used them until parts were so difficult to obtain, then I purchased a mid size Stihl MS310 with a 20 in bar not bow. I had a close call similar to Steve's only it involved my sock and foot. The Wife bought me a pair of safety chaps, which i wear even for small jobs. I also purchased a 16 inch bar and chain and I use it unless the job calls for the longer bar. Thank you Steve's Small Engine Saloon for the video.
I'm old enough to remember chainsaws without brakes. Dangerous tools even with all the safety gear.
I've seen people need stitches without the damn things even running. Stay safe!
Woow so glad you're ok Steve!!!! There could've been a way worse outcome. You definitely have an angel watching you my friend. Thank you so much for sharing
I am with you Steve I will never you a chainsaw without Safety Chaps. My Safety Chaps saved my right leg. Thank You so much for this video.
Thank you for reinforcing that sound advice!! As much as I love a few beers at the end of the day, I NEVER touch any alcohol until all power tools are done with for the session.... Anything sharp, as well, of course. Glas you're OK, Steve.... best wishes from the UK
Thanks for the update Steve good info to take to heart. Take care of yourself and family and be Blessed ❤️❤️.
Valuable info & advice. Safety First!
In many ways, this is the best video you have done. No doubt it will save someone from a horrible accident. Listen to to our wives tough as it seems sometimes. Cheers Steve.
We should all be lucky enough to have a wife like April.
Thanks for sharing, glad that you didn’t come to any harm!
Gday Steve,
My wife bought me the Kevlar lined chaps about 20 years ago. I always wear them when out in our State Forrest in the wood collection areas. Last year I was tired at the end of the day and had a little stumble on uneven ground as the saw was lifted after a cut and putting on the brake. It was at low revs thankfully and just touched my chaps on my upper thigh. The fibres grabbed the chain and stopped it instantly. So there’s this nic in the chaps that’s there now as a reminder.
I recently upgraded to a large Stihl fuel injected saw as what is left in the Forrest here is the big stuff that no one really wants as more time to move and block split. The new saw has got a kick like a mule. I always wore goggles and ear muffs but have now invested in a Stihl hard hat with metal face shield and built in ear muffs. Hopefully I’ll never need that one!
Like you I always do the same with the chain brake too.
Great advice in your vid. Thank goodness for our wives eh? 😁
Cheers 🍻
YIKES!!!
Glad you're ok!
No matter how hard we try to be safe, things will happen to us. Hence why I:
Do NOT go mowing lawns in shorts!
I wear gloves, & saftey glasse while mowing.
I do NOT mow in sandales, I wear CSA footwear.
I have a professional 1st aid kit in my mowing truck.
I expect anyone helping me to follow these rules too.
Highvis shirts are on order too😁
Take care Steve.
love this channel!!!
Thanks for sharing this, Steve! I made the same decision to always wear my chaps after my own moment of dumbassery. Was with the wife and duaghter-in-law, clearing out some little guys and saplings, 5" max. And it was hot - 90F, humidity right up there. I was getting sapped and wobbly, but I just had my light little MS180 so I figured I could keep it going. Well, after a cut, I failed to engage the brake, let the blade swing, and felt a slight tug at my right leg. Then my leg got cold. Oh boy, said my mind; shock...gonna hurt bad in a moment1 I screamed like a little child and pitched the saw...but all that had happened was that the saw cut a 5" vent in my jeans above my knee. I was so sweaty that even the wet warm air felt cold on my leg. Even since - no matter the temps or the number of cuts - chaps go on.
The difference between our stories is that maybe 10 people have heard mine, and already almost 50,000 have heard yours. I'll bet you and April saved a couple dozen legs. Not a bad day's work. Thanks again.
Yep, I crushed my right index finger in my log splitter last month and still recovering. I'm just lucky I still have a finger. It's been a rough month so far but accidents like that really gives you an appreciation for how important things like your fingers are 😅
WOW! Sorry to hear that buddy!
Glad to see you are OK, Steve. Been cutting wood for some 45 seasons and have never used a chain brake, other than using it to hang up the saw from the ceiling. Been lucky I guess.
I feel really dumb, I didn't know you are supposed to use the chain break like that, I thought it's only purpose was to engage lr a kick back happens.
You're insanely lucky 😂
Great video, Steve. If it can happen to you it can happen to any of us! I've noticed that it's always the "small jobs" that'll just take a "couple minutes" that I start getting complacent, and just run out with the chainsaw to get it done quick. I've had a couple of close calls but **nothing** like yours!
Self criticism is always the hardest to give and receive. Thanks for being honest.
i'm glad you're ok Steve! thank you for sharing your experience, it really matters. April is right! Cheers from Italy
Thanks for the reminder Steve. It's easy to get complacent. I'm glad you are okay bud!
Glad you're ok Steve, nice idea by April to have you share it with us. 👍
I have been chainsawing for over 20 years without Chaps, but finally gave in a bought an Oregon pair this year. Must admit, it does make me feel safer! Before any cutting I always make sure my feet are firmly planted, no obstructions and BOTH hands are gripping the saw. That way I can control kickback or twisting if it occurs. Hold it in one hand and kickback could flick it up in your face in a second. I know it’s against all advice, but I don’t use the brake between cuts. I DO ensure that my carb is tuned to give me the slowest idle possible so that the chain stops as soon as I take my finger off the trigger. The brake is still very important as insurance against a bad kickback event though.
You're only the second luckiest guy. I bought my chaps after an incident where I not only cut my pants, but opened my leg to the point where I was seeping blood. You are 100% right about not cutting without ALL the right PPE.
Stay safe.
Thanks, I use a chainsaw monthly... You have improved my safety. Thanks.
Thank you, many dangers involving motorized tools
That is a good warning. Had something similar with a thicknesser got my shirt caught in the blade so lucky never again. Thanks for sharing
A lot of us had near misses. After Hurricane Ian, I was cutting the two trees that fell on my roof. I was exhausted when I tripped backwards. Luckily I threw the saw away (I was cutting at the time). No damage to my Saw, but I blew my back out. My tip to y’all. Stop working when you’re on E.
Same for sports activities: most downhill skiing injuries happen later in the day.
Glad you’re ok. Keep on keeping on!
Thank you so much for this video Steve. I'm sending the link to my son-in-law who I worry about very much because of the RISKS he takes at times with his chainsaw. Complacency is a disaster waiting to happy! By the way, his name is also Steve.
Posting for a friend of mine who, beyond luck, has survived equally dumbass lapses in judgment. THANK YOU for the much-needed reminder to everyone who works with power tools: let's be careful out there.
Thanks Steve. Yes chaps saved my son's leg once, it still gives me the chills to think how life would have changed forever if he hadn't had them on that day. Again, thank you for sharing your experience and advice.
You're Welcome...
Glad you didn't get cut, you are so right, you are lucky...I put my chaps on every single time I start up my saw, I'm not going to be bleeding on the way to the hospital saying I should have put my chaps on...
I did the exact same situation fortunately I had my chaps on no injuries great Point Steve
Good video Steve. The other guys need to make more like this one. We know wood cutting is a dangerous game but some are making it look deceptivly easy. My son told me that RUclips didnt allow what they called "dangerous" and my response was "Hey, I watch wood cutting videos alot"
First, I'm glad you weren't hurt!
I'm confused, is your idle set high, so your chain is always spinning? I've been a faller and tree arborist for 37 years. As soon as I let go of the trigger, my saws' chains come to a stop. I've actually never seen or heard of any professional tree cutters using the brake as a safety on/off switch. Usually, it is for kickback where if the saw kicks back on you, your hand bumps the chain brake and engages it. Your description actually seems to point to one risk with always switching the brake on and off. If you forget, you mind assumes and therefore relies on the brake being engaged except when you are cutting. For me, my mind always assumes the brake is not on, so I'm always handling the saw as though it has the potential to cut me.
Thank you for making this vid! And I found your channel again! Again, thanks and very glad you're alright.
I did something similar. At the time I didn't own chaps.
I shut it down and went to town and got some. Thank you so much for sharing.💀✌️
Whew! That was a close one! Thanks for the reminder to (always) take the proper safety precautions because most mistakes happen when you hit your groove and throw caution to the wind. Personally, I kinda like my legs. Plus, I'd be a lot shorter without them.
I had cut a big dead limb off our oak tree, standing on an adjacent limb about 8 feet up. When I came down out of the tree, I saw that the sole of my work boot had a big semi circular cut out of the side. The really scary thing was, I had no notion of when or how that had happened. Situational awareness can never be overemphasized.
Really good video Steve. 👍👍👍
Good on you, Steve for making this vid. I have too often been guilty of not donning safety gear for “ just a couple of cuts”. But as you found, it only takes one bad cut to change (or end) your life! I’ve always felt there should be an operator’s license required to own a chainsaw, as there is for a firearm. I took the saw safety course a few years back, and still learned a lot even after 50 years of using a saw.
It is so easy for us to become complacent in the most simple of tasks, yet this is when accidents often happen. Good thing it was only a grazer. Thanks for posting this video.
Hey Steve great video, fantastic of you to put this up as a reminder. Chainsaws are unforgiving,chaps, safety helmet, gloves will protect from cuts and heaven forbid kickback
I like April. She's got wisdom and understanding. You should consider doing a video showing the types of layers and how chaps stop the chain at the sprocket. It's a really neat invention and a lot of homeowners don't know about them. There's some cheapos that use 3 or 5 layers of cheap material that I wouldn't use. Just a though.
Would like to know a little more info about these cheapo chaps you speak of. Please enlighten all of us unworthy homeowners that you seem to have more knowledge than.
@@tlough1 It looks to me like you misunderstood my comment. I didn't say that homeowners were unaware of cheapos, nor did I make any statement of homeowners being unworthy. Seems as though you took offense with your misunderstanding of my statement, which is real common these days with anti-social media. A lot of homeowners are unaware of "the types of layers" and the mechanics of chaps and how they work. Chaps have layered sacrificial material in them. The layers get torn by the teeth of the saw, successively. The teeth carry the chunks that they harvested to the sprocket causing the sprocket to bind up and stop instantly.
Cheap chaps have less layers of thinner sacrificial material which can allow one saw tooth to carry multiple layers, which can in turn, allow the successive teeth to cut through into the flesh of the handler. I'm guessing that maybe you knew this and thought for some reason that I was insulting homeowners or something. I am a homeowner and for years I was ignorant of how chaps worked. I personally thought that they were just thick material and never looked into the design of them.
Ignorance can be cured with education. Stupidity can only be punished and never cured.
Thanks for reminding us how quickly things can go south when using a chainsaw. I've become much more safety conscious as I've gotten older. Figure I gone this long without loosing any part of my anatomy plus now I'm much slower then 40-50 years ago.
Excellent video! Thank you. If it can happen to you, it can certainly happen to the rest of us. Even for very small jobs, the 'hassle' of putting on the safety chaps or pants is nothing compared to the trip to the hospital and potential extremely serious injury.
Thank You...
Great advice Steve, you deserve a beer after that good advice!
Glad you came out lucky, buddy! I pulled a good one a few years back with my 044...not so lucky hahaha! Learned my lesson and wear chaps every single time now.
Fences and chainsaws do not mix. Decades ago, I was using an electric chain saw to cut down a few saplings that had grown at the bottom of an overgrown woven wire fence. The electric chainsaw was a corded one, was very lightweight and so easy to kick back with the old style 1970's saw chain. Well, my father trying to help me out came along and used his foot to push over an 1 1/2" thick sapling as I was sawing it. The saw had then kicked back from the tree pinching the nose bar, caught the wire fence almost yanking the saw from my hands and then the tip of the nose bar had swung back around and then plunged right into the front of my father's shin. It was a split second tap, seemed like it was barely a touch to his work pants until my father fell over backwards onto the ground grabbing his shin. It had cut a 5" gash about 3/4" deep into his leg exposing the bone. His pants didn't even have a hole in them at all afterward which was strange? The nose bar had actually hammered/sheared/pinched his flesh against his leg bone cutting it like how a boxer cuts a cheek bone of an opponent from punching it. It took 48 stitches to close his leg and he was crippled for almost 3 months afterward. One of the worst days of my life, having that on my mind afterward injuring my father. It wasn't actually my fault, yet I had mentally beaten myself up over it for months and years afterward. Ever since they have come out with chainsaw proof chaps, I have bought a set and I always use them and I never allow anyone near me while I'm using a chainsaw, no matter what. I had used chainsaws for 30 years after my father's injury, but now since they have had these chaps (mine are by Stihl) and the hard plastic bump cap with the full face screen and hearing protectors, I have always worn them while using a chainsaw or power pruner. Never get in a hurry using a chain saw folks. Ever. I also highly recommend using a timber jack to roll and lift logs from the ground to cut them. It prevents the dropping wood from pinching the nose bar and causing it to kick back/buck against you. I had watched some professional loggers from Oregon at the state fair here put on a timber sports demonstration and they were really great at teaching chainsaw, axe and logging safety. Steve is giving all great advice once again.
Thank you for posting this, good info.
You are a lucky man. Thank you for sharing your mistake so that we can learn from it.
Get the chaps people!!
Did the same thing many years ago while working in the yard with my saw doing clean up. Happened to look down and noticed a tear in my jeans over my left knee. Continued on. Then a few minutes later it dawned on me those jeans didn’t have that tear when I put them on that morning. Pulled them down right there in the yard and sure enough I’d hit my knee with the saw and didn’t know I’d done it. I got pissed at myself for being that stupid, then having to go to the ER, where 7 stitches and $700 later they had me fixed. The doctor told me I was lucky. He said chainsaw accidents can produce a real nasty injury. They don’t cut like a knife. The chain removes a trench of tissue leaving a real messy injury.
I was really lucky that day.
Get those chaps people!
As a young boy i witnessed a mans thigh cut with a power saw (late 1970's) to this day i remember the raged cut and denim. great advice sir.
Thanks for this. I used the chain brake only as a safety feature while sawing. But I will use it now all the time. This is a valuable tip.
Excellent!
Scary stuff Steve glad you're ok !
Had a similar incident but mine resulted in a few stitches. Now I wear my chaps every time. Safety first never last have a future not a past. The John deere motto!!
Glad you're OK. I always wear my kevlar chaps when using the saw.
My retired father who has done forestry aside farming said to me that everyone should every single time use all the safety gear with chainsaw. I think he mentioned that he had three pants and one boot damaged. All situations where chain would've gouged very badly in remote locations and every time some stupid mistake that happened without any thinking it could happen. Moving rock that caused to loose stability, odd branches etc. Mentioned that he was always preparing to ie. kickback situations etc. but it's indeed true. Random stuff is the worst. Neighbor forester by profession old man fully concurred.
Had a buddy years ago, kneeling down to cut a log, lost his balance, and that meaty part right below the knee cap got into the top of his chain. Ripped a bunch of soft tissue out, but thankfully his reflexes were quick enough, he jumped back before bone was hit. That was like 40 years ago, and the thought of it still haunts me. He came out okay, but it was a rough healing process.
Thanks for sharing Steve ! Thanks to April for encouraging you to share ! Saws can be vicious. Common sense is now a rare commodity and I think it's really kind and important to share our life lessons with others. A basic one that I recall is we had a guy who used to put steel rod offcuts in a drum...instead of leaning these against the wall they were left protruding into the workshop at about stomach height. You could easily trip on our often crowded floor and fall onto these and impale yourself. A quick and 100% safe fix was simply leaning them against the wall! I am cutting wood soon for our new Nectre Big Bakers Oven ( Vermont Bun Baker in the US ) so will keep in mind this video. May God bless and keep you and yours. Dave. New Zealand.
ill bet you had more than one beer after that close call !!!! thanks for the safety tip.
I usually wear my Husqvarna chaps, but honestly I never use the chain brake. Glad you didn’t get cut Steve!
One of the biggest dangers that experienced operators face is familiar situational complacency, glad that it was only pride that took a knock! Regards
Thanks for this information! I am a new chainsaw user and I definitely learned something new! Thanks!!
Steve I wasn’t so lucky as you. I cut a small sapling and with one motion I slung it to the side and the chain got my knee. We were out in the boonies camping. We wrapped it up and went to the nearest town to get it sewed up. I was very lucky I didn’t loose my leg.
Good video. Thanks for warning everyone. I hope they take heed.