Finally, regular maintenance and care is crucial:

Extend life with a close eye
Keeping a close eye on the condition of your chainsaw is an important safety step that cannot be overstated. Bent bars, dull or chipped teeth, and loose chains can all result in tragic accidents, so it is of utmost importance that, at the very least, we swap out dull chains when we’re feeling too lazy to sharpen them.

It’s easy to put the saw up on a shelf when not in use and not think about it until we need it again (which some are likely to do for years). Aside from general maintenance, like changing plugs and filters, engine maintenance isn’t a task that’s suited for the average do-it-yourselfer. I always encourage friends and colleagues to have their equipment professionally serviced if it isn’t running correctly.

Likewise, advanced cutting techniques are important skills to master even for just the occasional user. However, this is a subject that could (and does) fill entire books. Still, it’s important to master the lowly thru-cut, bore cut and hinge cuts first. The average commercial chainsaw will indeed suit most average users. If you find yourself limited by constant sharpening or slow cutting speeds, the information in this guide should serve as reference for low-cost solutions. Often, all we need to get the most out of a chainsaw are wider chain options or new skills, and not necessarily a new saw.

What do you think of these chainsaw maintenance tips? How do you take care of your chainsaw? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

Article Source: Grit