Getting a log burner installed soon and I’ve been on the lookout for a chainsaw I can chuck in the van so whilst I’m out if I’m offered any wood I can chop before loading onto the van.
I’ve looked at petrol but with the battery technology being pretty good now days I’m probably going down that route, has anybody got any advice on any to look out for and any to avoid?
Somewhat controversial, but....
I don't know what chainsaw experience you have, but I think that an experienced user wouldn't have asked the question.
Please consider doing a chainsaw operators course and buying chainsaw boots, over trousers, gloves, helmet etc. before using or buying a chainsaw.
None of that is cheap, but a chainsaw is the most unforgiving tool in the world, chainsaw injuries tend to be horrific. Even when cutting up a fallen tree there are tensions in the wood that have to be dealt with in a certain way if you want to stay safe.
With the current fuel cost crisis I'm sure a lot of people are thinking of buying a chainsaw, sadly some will pay a high price because they aren't the right sort of people to be using one. Sharpening a chainsaw chain is a skill, it's more difficult than most people think and a incorrectly sharpened saw will create a world of problems.
I have a policy of never cutting alone - if something goes wrong when you're using a chainsaw it won't be a job for your home first aid kit and you won't live long enough to wait the 6 hours it'll take for the ambulance to arrive, if you can use your phone. Have somebody nearby to help in an emergency.
Anyway, if I haven't talked you out of it....
Battery chainsaws are excellent nowadays but with batteries and a charger it's a big investment for an occasional user, I'd go petrol in your circumstances. I'd also use a pre mixed fuel like Stihl Motomix, which will not go off in your carb and tank if left unused for a couple of months.
Stihl MOTOMIX Fuel Mixture STIHL MotoMix is our patented premixed fuel, specially blended for ultimate performance. This 50:1 mixture is a combination of premium non-ethanol, high-octane motor fuel and our highest quality STIHL HP Ultra oil. It also stays fresh in your equipment over extended...
oakleysgardenmachinery.co.uk
I don't use my chainsaws during the summer so at the end of winter I make sure my last tank is Motomix, it doesn't gum up the carb over summer like a normal 2 stroke mix does.
There are several good chainsaw manufacturers out there but you really can't go wrong with Stihl and spare parts are readily available.
You almost certainly don't need bigger than a 14 inch bar.
You'll also need to know about seasoning firewood, different species, and splitting wood.
Most importantly, stay safe.
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