Chainsaws are powerful, versatile tools that can help you clear wood, but they must be handled with care to avoid injury. Understanding what size chainsaw you need, as well as proper cutting techniques and safety precautions, will help you select the right chainsaw for the job. Our chainsaw buying guide can help answer some of these questions and more.
How to Choose a Chainsaw
The first question people often have when buying a chainsaw is about the size of the chainsaw they need. Generally speaking, chainsaws are used to cut firewood, clear wood that’s fallen from storm damage, or prune trees. However, if you need to cut limbs that are higher than your shoulders, then opt for a pole saw instead.
Common Chainsaw Sizes
Troy-Bilt® chainsaws come in 14", 16", 18" and 20" bar lengths. To choose the best chainsaw for the job, you’ll want to understand what kind of wood you’ll be cutting, then select a chainsaw with a slightly longer bar length. If you think you’ll be cutting wood up to 16" in diameter, such as fallen debris or firewood, then you should choose a chainsaw with an 18" bar length, such as the Troy-Bilt® 18" 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw. If you’re looking for the best gas chainsaw for cutting trees, then you may want to look at chainsaws with bar lengths greater than 18".
Troy-Bilt chainsaws have the strength and torque to cut in wet conditions. Each Troy-Bilt chainsaw model was designed to be lightweight, with thoughtful features like anti-vibration handles, automatic chain oilers, and low-kickback bar and chain technology, making it comfortable to grip and easy to maneuver.
Each chainsaw model is gas-powered, so you won’t have to worry about your machine if you lose electricity or need to venture far from a power source. Other shared features of Troy-Bilt chainsaws include bucking spikes, which provide leverage for more controlled sawing and are particularly useful when segmenting a tree, and a powerful, full-crank engine that utilizes SpringAssist® technology for easy pull starts.
Once you find the right Troy-Bilt chainsaw, you’ll have a powerful new addition to your tool shed to help make yard work less of a chore.
Chainsaw Safety Precautions
Chainsaw Safety Gear
Be sure to follow proper safety precautions before using a chainsaw. Protective chainsaw safety gear should always be worn, including:
- Protective safety goggles to shield your eyes
- A face guard or shield to protect from flying shrapnel
- Head protection such as a work helmet
- Hearing protection
- Heavy duty work gloves
- Long-sleeve shirt
- Steel-toe boots or work shoes
- Protective chainsaw safety chaps or leg guards
Before You Begin Using Your Chainsaw
Before operating, consult your chainsaw’s owner’s manual and follow all safety/operation instructions. Also, familiarize yourself with proper cutting techniques. Inspect your chainsaw to make sure it stays in good working order, and never operate a damaged chainsaw.
You should survey the working area and its surroundings. Block off the area so people do not enter unexpectedly. Do not operate a chainsaw near tripping hazards or obstructions, and never operate a chainsaw on an unstable surface. When operating, always use two hands and keep a tight grip. To avoid kickback of the chainsaw, do not allow the tip of the chainsaw to make contact with any objects.
