020 Stihl Chainsaw Guide (5 Expert Tips for Smooth Woodcutting)

The gleam of freshly cut wood, the scent of sawdust in the air – there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from working with timber. And at the heart of this experience often lies a reliable chainsaw. For many years, the Stihl 020 has been a favorite for its compact size and dependable performance. But even the best tools need a skilled hand to truly shine.

In this article, I’m diving deep into how to get the most out of your Stihl 020 chainsaw. This isn’t just a review; it’s a culmination of my years spent in the field, learning the nuances of woodcutting, and discovering the hidden potential of this iconic saw.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Your Saw: Learn the specific strengths and limitations of the Stihl 020.
• Optimal Chain Selection: Discover the right chain for different types of wood and cutting tasks.
• Sharpening Mastery: Master the art of chain sharpening for efficient and safe cutting.
• Maintenance is Key: Implement a preventative maintenance schedule to prolong the life of your saw.
• Cutting Techniques: Refine your cutting techniques for smooth, accurate, and safe operation.

So, grab your gloves, sharpen your chain, and let’s get started!

The Stihl 020: A Workhorse in a Compact Package

The Stihl 020 chainsaw is somewhat of a legend. It’s not the biggest, it’s not the newest, but it has earned a reputation for reliability and versatility. I remember the first time I picked one up – it felt like a natural extension of my arm. Its lightweight design and manageable power made it perfect for everything from limbing branches to felling smaller trees.

Why the Stihl 020 Still Matters

• Lightweight and Maneuverable: Ideal for extended use without excessive fatigue.
• Reliable Engine: Known for its consistent performance and longevity.
• Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of tasks, from pruning to firewood cutting.
• Easy to Maintain: Simple design makes maintenance straightforward.
• Affordable: Often available at a reasonable price, especially on the used market.

I’ve seen Stihl 020s that are decades old still running strong, a testament to their build quality. However, like any tool, the 020 has its limitations. It’s not designed for heavy-duty felling of large trees. Trying to push it beyond its capabilities will only lead to frustration and potential damage.

Understanding the Specs

These specs might seem like just numbers, but they tell a story. The relatively small engine size means it’s not a powerhouse, but the low weight makes it incredibly easy to handle. The typical bar length of 12-16 inches is perfect for most common tasks around the home and garden.

Expert Tip #1: Selecting the Right Chain for the Job

The chain is the heart of any chainsaw, and choosing the right one for your Stihl 020 can make a world of difference. I’ve learned this the hard way, trying to cut hardwood with a chain designed for softwood. The result? Slow cutting, excessive vibration, and a quickly dulled chain.

Understanding Chain Types

• Full Chisel: Aggressive cutting, best for clean wood. Requires more sharpening skill.
• Semi-Chisel: More forgiving, suitable for dirtier wood. A good all-around choice.
• Low-Profile: Designed for safety, reduces kickback. Ideal for beginners.

For the Stihl 020, I generally recommend a semi-chisel chain for most users. It offers a good balance of cutting speed, durability, and ease of sharpening. If you’re working with particularly clean wood and have experience sharpening chains, a full chisel chain can provide faster cutting.

Chain Pitch and Gauge

It’s crucial to match the chain pitch and gauge to your saw’s specifications. The Stihl 020 typically uses a .325 inch pitch and .050 inch gauge chain. Using the wrong size can damage your saw and create a safety hazard.

The Importance of a Sharp Chain

A dull chain is not only inefficient; it’s also dangerous. It can cause the saw to kick back, increasing the risk of injury. I always say, “A sharp chain is a safe chain.”

• Signs of a Dull Chain:
  • Sawdust turns into fine powder instead of chips.
  • You have to apply excessive pressure to cut.
  • The saw vibrates excessively.
  • The saw pulls to one side.
• Statistics on Chainsaw Injuries: According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 36,000 people are treated in U.S. emergency rooms each year for chainsaw-related injuries. A significant portion of these injuries are due to kickback, which is more likely to occur with a dull chain.

Expert Tip #2: Mastering the Art of Chain Sharpening

Sharpening a chainsaw chain might seem daunting at first, but it’s a skill that every chainsaw user should learn. I remember the first time I tried to sharpen a chain – I ended up with a mangled mess of metal. But with practice and the right tools, it becomes second nature.

Tools for Chain Sharpening

• Round File: The most common tool for sharpening chainsaw chains. Choose the correct size for your chain’s pitch.
• File Guide: Helps maintain the correct angle and depth while filing.
• Depth Gauge Tool: Used to adjust the depth gauges (rakers) on the chain.
• Flat File: Used to lower the depth gauges.
• Vise: To hold the chainsaw bar securely while sharpening.

Step-by-Step Chain Sharpening

1. Secure the Bar: Place the chainsaw bar in a vise to hold it securely.
2. Identify the Cutting Angle: Most chains have a recommended cutting angle marked on the tooth.
3. File Each Tooth: Using the round file and file guide, sharpen each tooth, maintaining the correct angle and depth. File from the inside of the tooth outward.
4. Sharpen Consistently: Make the same number of strokes on each tooth to ensure they are all the same length.
5. Lower the Depth Gauges: Use the depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (rakers). If they are too high, use the flat file to lower them.
6. Test the Chain: After sharpening, test the chain by cutting a small piece of wood. The saw should cut smoothly and efficiently.

Sharpening Frequency

How often you need to sharpen your chain depends on the type of wood you’re cutting and how often you use the saw. As a general rule, I sharpen my chain after every few hours of use, or whenever I notice it’s not cutting as efficiently.

• Factors Affecting Sharpening Frequency:
  • Type of wood (hardwood dulls chains faster than softwood)
  • Dirt and debris (dirty wood dulls chains faster)
  • Cutting technique (forcing the saw dulls the chain)

Alternative Sharpening Methods

• Electric Chain Sharpener: A faster and more precise way to sharpen chains.
• Professional Sharpening: If you’re not comfortable sharpening your own chain, you can take it to a professional.

Expert Tip #3: Preventative Maintenance: The Key to Longevity

A well-maintained chainsaw is a happy chainsaw. I’ve seen so many saws die prematurely due to neglect. A little bit of preventative maintenance can go a long way in extending the life of your Stihl 020.

Essential Maintenance Tasks

• Air Filter Cleaning: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, reducing engine performance. Clean the air filter regularly with soap and water.
• Spark Plug Inspection: A faulty spark plug can cause hard starting or poor performance. Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it if necessary.
• Fuel Filter Replacement: A clogged fuel filter can starve the engine of fuel. Replace the fuel filter annually.
• Bar and Chain Oiling: Proper lubrication is essential for preventing wear and tear on the bar and chain. Check the oil level regularly and use a high-quality bar and chain oil.
• Chain Tension Adjustment: A loose chain can derail and cause injury. Adjust the chain tension regularly to ensure it is snug but not too tight.
• Cleaning the Saw: After each use, clean the saw to remove sawdust and debris.

The Importance of Using the Right Fuel

The Stihl 020 requires a mixture of gasoline and two-stroke oil. Using the wrong fuel mixture can damage the engine. Always use the recommended fuel mixture ratio (typically 50:1) and a high-quality two-stroke oil.

• Ethanol in Gasoline: Be aware of the ethanol content in gasoline. Ethanol can damage small engines. Use fuel with the lowest possible ethanol content, or use a fuel stabilizer.

Seasonal Storage

If you’re not going to be using your chainsaw for an extended period, it’s important to store it properly.

• Drain the Fuel: Drain the fuel tank to prevent the fuel from going stale.
• Clean the Saw: Clean the saw thoroughly to remove sawdust and debris.
• Lubricate the Bar and Chain: Apply a coat of bar and chain oil to prevent rust.
• Store in a Dry Place: Store the saw in a dry place to prevent corrosion.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Hard Starting: Check the spark plug, air filter, and fuel filter.
• Poor Performance: Check the air filter, spark plug, and fuel mixture.
• Chain Won’t Oil: Check the oil level and the oiler system.

Expert Tip #4: Refining Your Cutting Techniques for Smooth Woodcutting

Having a sharp chain and a well-maintained saw is only half the battle. Proper cutting techniques are essential for safety, efficiency, and achieving smooth, accurate cuts. I’ve seen experienced loggers make dangerous mistakes simply because they were rushing or not paying attention to proper technique.

Basic Cutting Techniques

• Felling: The process of cutting down a tree. Requires careful planning and execution.
• Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree.
• Bucking: Cutting a felled tree into smaller logs.

Safe Felling Practices

• Assess the Tree: Before felling a tree, assess its size, lean, and any potential hazards.
• Plan Your Escape Route: Clear a path for retreat in case the tree falls unexpectedly.
• Use Proper Notching Techniques: Create a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall.
• Watch for Kickback: Be aware of the risk of kickback, especially when cutting near the tip of the bar.

Limbing Techniques

• Work from the Base to the Tip: Start limbing at the base of the tree and work your way towards the tip.
• Use a Stable Stance: Maintain a stable stance to avoid losing your balance.
• Be Aware of Spring Poles: Be careful when cutting branches that are under tension, as they can spring back and cause injury.

Bucking Techniques

• Support the Log: Support the log to prevent it from pinching the saw.
• Use Proper Cutting Sequence: Use a proper cutting sequence to avoid kickback and pinching.
• Be Aware of Tension and Compression: Understand how tension and compression affect the log to avoid pinching.

Avoiding Kickback

Kickback is one of the most common causes of chainsaw injuries. It occurs when the tip of the bar contacts a solid object, causing the saw to suddenly kick back towards the operator.

• Use a Reduced-Kickback Chain: These chains have features that reduce the risk of kickback.
• Avoid Cutting with the Tip of the Bar: Be aware of the position of the tip of the bar at all times.
• Maintain a Firm Grip: Keep a firm grip on the saw with both hands.
• Stand to the Side of the Saw: Avoid standing directly behind the saw.

Ergonomics and Posture

Prolonged chainsaw use can put a strain on your body. Use proper ergonomics and posture to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.

• Keep Your Back Straight: Avoid bending over while cutting.
• Use Your Legs: Use your legs to lift and move logs.
• Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to rest and stretch.

Expert Tip #5: Optimizing Fuelwood Preparation for Efficiency

The Stihl 020 is an excellent tool for preparing firewood. But simply cutting wood isn’t enough. Optimizing your process can save you time, energy, and money.

Choosing the Right Wood

• Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and beech burn longer and produce more heat than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Seasoned vs. Green Wood: Seasoned wood has a lower moisture content and burns more efficiently than green wood.
• Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%.

Cutting Firewood to the Right Size

• Matching Wood Stove Size: Cut firewood to a length that fits your wood stove or fireplace.
• Consistent Lengths: Cut firewood to consistent lengths for easier stacking and burning.

Splitting Firewood

• Using a Splitting Maul: A splitting maul is a heavy tool used to split logs.
• Using a Hydraulic Log Splitter: A hydraulic log splitter is a powered tool that makes splitting logs easier and faster.
• Splitting Wedges: Splitting wedges can be used to split particularly tough logs.

Stacking Firewood

• Elevated Stacking: Stack firewood on pallets or other elevated surfaces to prevent moisture from wicking up from the ground.
• Criss-Cross Stacking: Stack firewood in a criss-cross pattern to promote airflow.
• Covering Firewood: Cover firewood with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow.

Drying Firewood

• Seasoning Time: Firewood typically takes 6-12 months to season properly.
• Airflow: Proper airflow is essential for drying firewood.
• Sunlight: Sunlight can help to dry firewood more quickly.

Calculating Firewood Volume

• Cord: A cord of firewood is a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long.
• Face Cord: A face cord is a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the width can vary.
• Estimating Volume: Use a firewood calculator to estimate the volume of your firewood stack.

Firewood Safety

• Wear Safety Gear: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection when preparing firewood.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid working in hazardous conditions.
• Use Proper Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries.

Conclusion: Mastering the Stihl 020 for Years of Reliable Service

The Stihl 020 chainsaw is more than just a tool; it’s a companion in the woods, a reliable partner in your wood processing endeavors. By understanding its capabilities, selecting the right chain, mastering sharpening techniques, practicing preventative maintenance, and refining your cutting techniques, you can unlock its full potential and enjoy years of dependable service.

Remember, safety is paramount. Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow safe cutting practices. With a little knowledge and practice, you can become a skilled chainsaw operator and enjoy the satisfaction of working with wood.

Now, go out there, fire up your Stihl 020, and create something amazing! And if you’re looking to upgrade your gear, consider checking out some of the recommended tools and accessories mentioned in this article. Happy cutting!

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