*Features to Look for
When shopping for chainsaws, you will come across a huge list of features that manufacturers use, often with their own terms, but essentially covering the same common feature under a different name. Hope you can use our list of definitions as a base for your further research.
We tried to collect the most common features here that make using a chainsaw easier, more comfortable and safer.
Kickback reducing systems
The most effective action to prevent kickback is training. However, as a homeowner, especially if you are not very experienced, there are features and other solutions to look for to reduce risk of injury, in case eventually kickback occurs.
Manufacturers are trying to design chains that are less likely to cause kickbacks with protective links between the cutting teeth, while a well thought trough bar design with special nose is also a risk reducing factor.
Some companies utilize kickback guards and automatic chain brakes in the event of a kickback, limiting the damage that a launching bar can deliver.
Anti-vibration system
Vibration in chainsaw is known to be a serious issue that will affect you when using your machine for a long period of time. Vibration is most evident in gas chainsaws and increases in line with the engine size. Anti-vibration systems help in reducing the burden and thus makes sawing more comfortable.
An anti-vibration handle is essentially an isolator, that dampens vibration and therefore reduces fatigue and also extends the lifetime of the chainsaw.
Chain brake
What chain brake does is that it stops the chainsaw if there is a sudden movement, for example, kickback, lessening the risk of injury. The chain brake can be manually controlled by pushing the top hand guard forward, and pulled back to release the break.
Automatic oiling
All kinds of chainsaws, even electric ones require proper chain lubrication. Some chainsaws have manual oiling features where the operator has to press a button from time to time.
Automatic oiling systems lubricate the chain as it is being used, no need for manual activation. These systems make sure that the chain is lubricated at all times without wasting oil, offering safer operation, more efficient cutting and extended lifetime for the chain.
Safety throttle or trigger
Most models accompany a safety trigger. This implies that when you turn on the chainsaw, the trigger must be grasped constantly. In the event that anything makes you release the trigger, the chainsaw automatically turns off and the chain will not be driven.
Chain catcher
In the event that the chain should break or get derailed, a catcher will guard you by ensuring it doesn’t fly loose and cause any injury.
Right-hand guard
All chainsaws are designed for right-handed use, with right hand on the rear handle, and the left hand on the top handle. The right hand guard is a common feature that protects the user’s hand and fingers, should the chain break or derail.
Blade cover
It’s vital to always cover the blade when the chainsaw is not being used. This will avert any accidental wear, and in addition any injury.
Spring-assisted starting
Using the power of a metal string, this feature reduces the pulling force needed to start a gas chainsaw. Electric chain saws don’t need this as they simply start by a press of a button.
Chain adjustment without a tool
Chainsaw chains stretch and get loose during their lifetime. It should be checked and tightened often. Traditionally, the chain had to be adjusted by taking off the side panel and loosen the guide bar side panel nuts, unlocking the chain break, adjusting the tensioning screw, then do all the things back. A cumbersome maintenance chore that can be saved by choosing a chainsaw with an automatic, tool-free chain tension system.
Heated handle
A self-explanatory comfort feature if the chainsaw is used frequently outside in cold conditions. There are claims that electrically headed handles can help prevent hand-arm vibration syndrome (or white finger) caused by extended exposure to vibration (source).
Brushless motor
A type of electric motor that gained huge popularity due to being quiet, durable and offering high performance. Most modern electric chainsaws are equipped with these modern motors.
Current limiter or Circuit breaker
In case there is an overload in current, this feature can prevent the motor from burning out.
Catalytic converters and advanced air cleaning
Air cleaning features extend the life of the air filter and engine by removing large pieces of debris before they reach the inner parts, as well as converters control emissions, helping the reduction of poisonous fumes and comply with environmental regulations.
Bumper spikes
These are attachments to the front of the chainsaw, that help stabilizing the saw on wood while bucking to prevent kickback.
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