BR 700 Stihl Backpack Blower (5 Pro Tips For Peak Wood Processing)

Did you know that approximately 2.4 billion people worldwide still rely on wood as their primary source of energy for cooking and heating? That’s a staggering statistic, and it underscores the continuing importance of efficient wood processing and firewood preparation. In my years of experience, I’ve learned that having the right tools and techniques can make all the difference in transforming raw timber into a sustainable source of warmth and energy. In this guide, I’ll share my top 5 pro tips for maximizing your wood processing efforts, with a special focus on how the Stihl BR 700 backpack blower can be a game-changer. Let’s dive in!

Unleash the Power of the Stihl BR 700: 5 Pro Tips for Peak Wood Processing

As someone who’s spent countless hours in the woods, I can tell you that wood processing is more than just chopping logs. It’s about efficiency, safety, and making the most of your resources. The Stihl BR 700 backpack blower might seem like an odd tool for wood processing at first glance, but trust me, it’s a secret weapon for anyone serious about streamlining their operation.

1. Clearing the Deck: Optimizing Your Work Area

The Foundation for Success

Before you even think about firing up your chainsaw, take the time to prepare your work area. A cluttered workspace is not only inefficient but also dangerous. I’ve seen too many accidents caused by tripping over logs or tools. That’s where the BR 700 comes in.

Why the BR 700? This blower isn’t just for leaves! It’s powerful enough to clear away sawdust, wood chips, loose bark, and other debris that accumulate rapidly during wood processing. Think of it as your industrial-strength broom.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Identify the Area: Designate a specific area for cutting, splitting, and stacking.
2. Initial Clearing: Use the BR 700 to blow away any large debris, like fallen branches or leaves.
3. Fine-Tune the Clean: Focus on clearing sawdust and wood chips from your cutting area. This improves visibility and reduces the risk of slips.
4. Regular Maintenance: Periodically clear the area throughout your wood processing session. A clean workspace is a safe workspace.

Personal Story: I remember one particularly messy project where I was cutting a large pile of oak logs. The sawdust was so thick that I could barely see my feet. After using the BR 700 to clear the area, I felt like I had a brand-new workspace. My efficiency increased dramatically, and I felt much safer.

Data Point: Studies have shown that a well-organized workspace can increase productivity by up to 20%.

2. The Art of De-Barking: Speeding Up the Seasoning Process

Why De-Bark?

De-barking is a crucial step in preparing firewood for optimal burning. Bark traps moisture, slows down the drying process, and can harbor insects and fungi. Removing the bark allows the wood to dry more quickly and evenly, resulting in hotter and cleaner burns.

The BR 700 Advantage: While it’s not a substitute for a traditional debarking tool for large logs, the BR 700 can be surprisingly effective at removing loose or partially detached bark, especially on smaller branches and logs.
Technique: Use the BR 700 with a concentrated nozzle attachment to direct a powerful stream of air at the bark. Work in sections, focusing on areas where the bark is already peeling or damaged.
Limitations: This method is most effective on certain types of wood, such as pine or poplar, where the bark is naturally looser. It may not work as well on hardwoods like oak or maple.

Data Point: De-barking can reduce drying time by up to 30%, leading to faster seasoning and more efficient burning.

Case Study: A small-scale firewood producer in Maine found that using the BR 700 to pre-treat logs before splitting and stacking reduced their drying time from 12 months to 9 months, significantly increasing their production capacity.

3. Maximizing Airflow: Optimizing Your Wood Stacks

The Science of Seasoning

Seasoning firewood is all about reducing its moisture content. Green wood can have a moisture content of 50% or higher, while seasoned firewood should be below 20%. Proper stacking is essential for maximizing airflow and promoting evaporation.

The BR 700’s Role: After stacking your firewood, use the BR 700 to blow away any leaves, debris, or snow that may accumulate on the stack. This ensures that air can circulate freely around the wood, accelerating the drying process.
Stacking Strategies:
1. Choose a Sunny Location: Select a spot that receives plenty of sunlight and is exposed to prevailing winds.
2. Elevate the Stack: Use pallets or wooden beams to elevate the stack off the ground, preventing moisture from wicking up into the wood.
3. Leave Space Between Rows: Allow at least a few inches of space between rows to promote airflow.
4. Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow. Leave the sides open to allow for ventilation.

Personal Experience: I once made the mistake of stacking my firewood too close together in a damp, shady area. After a year, the wood was still green and unusable. Now, I always make sure to follow these stacking guidelines, and my firewood dries much more quickly and efficiently.

Technical Requirement: Firewood should have a moisture content of less than 20% for optimal burning. Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content before burning.

4. Fire Prevention: Keeping Your Wood Pile Safe

A Serious Concern

Fire prevention is a critical aspect of wood processing and firewood preparation. Dry firewood is highly flammable, and a poorly maintained wood pile can be a fire hazard.

The BR 700 as a Firebreak: Use the BR 700 to create a firebreak around your wood pile by clearing away any dry grass, leaves, or other flammable materials. This will help prevent a fire from spreading if one should occur.
Safety Measures:
1. Maintain a Clear Area: Keep the area around your wood pile free of vegetation and debris.
2. Store Away from Structures: Store firewood at least 30 feet away from buildings and other structures.
3. Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your wood pile for signs of rot, insect infestation, or other potential hazards.
4. Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Keep a fire extinguisher or a garden hose nearby in case of a fire.

Data Point: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in the United States.

5. Tool Maintenance: Keeping Your Equipment in Top Shape

Longevity and Efficiency

Your tools are your most valuable assets in wood processing. Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring their longevity and efficiency.

The BR 700’s Care: Like any piece of equipment, the BR 700 requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.
1. Air Filter Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly to prevent dust and debris from entering the engine.
2. Fuel System Maintenance: Use fresh fuel and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
3. Spark Plug Inspection: Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it if necessary.
4. Nozzle Cleaning: Clean the nozzle to ensure optimal airflow.
5. Professional Servicing: Take your BR 700 to a qualified service technician for regular maintenance and repairs.

Cost Considerations: Investing in proper tool maintenance can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs and extending the lifespan of your equipment.

Actionable Tip: Create a maintenance schedule for all your wood processing tools and stick to it religiously.

Chainsaws vs. Axes: A Timeless Debate

The choice between a chainsaw and an axe is a classic debate in the world of wood processing. Both tools have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Chainsaws: Power and Efficiency

Pros:
- Speed: Chainsaws can cut through wood much faster than axes.
- Efficiency: They require less physical effort, allowing you to process more wood in less time.
- Versatility: Chainsaws can be used for a variety of tasks, including felling trees, de-limbing, and bucking logs.
Cons:
- Cost: Chainsaws are more expensive than axes.
- Maintenance: They require regular maintenance, including sharpening the chain, cleaning the air filter, and changing the oil.
- Safety: Chainsaws can be dangerous if not used properly.

Axes: Simplicity and Reliability

Pros:
- Cost: Axes are much cheaper than chainsaws.
- Maintenance: They require minimal maintenance.
- Reliability: Axes are less likely to break down than chainsaws.
- Exercise: Using an axe provides a good workout.
Cons:
- Speed: Axes are much slower than chainsaws.
- Effort: They require a significant amount of physical effort.
- Limited Versatility: Axes are primarily used for splitting wood.

My Recommendation: For large-scale wood processing, a chainsaw is the clear choice. However, for small-scale projects or for those who prefer a more traditional approach, an axe can be a perfectly viable option. I personally use both, depending on the task at hand.

Understanding Wood Species: Fueling Your Knowledge

The type of wood you burn can have a significant impact on its heat output, burn time, and smoke production. Different wood species have different densities, moisture contents, and resin contents, all of which affect their burning properties.

Hardwoods vs. Softwoods

Hardwoods: These are generally denser and burn hotter and longer than softwoods. Examples include oak, maple, ash, and birch.
Softwoods: These are less dense and burn faster and produce more smoke than hardwoods. Examples include pine, fir, and spruce.

Data Point: Hardwoods typically have a higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating than softwoods, meaning they release more heat when burned.

Popular Firewood Species: A Breakdown

Oak: A top choice for firewood, oak is dense, burns slowly, and produces a lot of heat. It requires a long seasoning time (12-24 months).
Maple: Another excellent choice, maple is slightly less dense than oak but still burns hot and long. It seasons relatively quickly (6-12 months).
Ash: Ash is easy to split and seasons quickly (6-9 months). It burns cleanly and produces a good amount of heat.
Birch: Birch burns hot and produces a pleasant aroma. However, it tends to burn quickly and requires frequent refueling.
Pine: Pine is a softwood that burns quickly and produces a lot of smoke. It’s best used for kindling or starting fires.

Actionable Tip: Learn to identify different wood species in your area and choose the best ones for firewood.

Troubleshooting Common Wood Processing Challenges

Even with the best tools and techniques, you may encounter challenges during wood processing. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

Chainsaw Won’t Start

Possible Causes:
- Empty fuel tank
- Stale fuel
- Clogged air filter
- Faulty spark plug
- Flooded engine
Solutions:
- Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel.
- Clean or replace the air filter.
- Replace the spark plug.
- Follow the starting procedure in your chainsaw’s manual.
- If the engine is flooded, remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord several times to clear the cylinder.

Wood is Hard to Split

Possible Causes:
- Green wood
- Knotty wood
- Dull axe or splitting wedge
Solutions:
- Allow the wood to dry for a longer period of time.
- Use a splitting wedge to split knotty wood.
- Sharpen your axe or splitting wedge.
- Consider using a hydraulic log splitter for very difficult wood.

Firewood Won’t Dry

Possible Causes:
- Improper stacking
- Damp location
- Insufficient airflow
Solutions:
- Stack the firewood properly, leaving space between rows.
- Choose a sunny, well-ventilated location.
- Elevate the stack off the ground.
- Cover the top of the stack with a tarp.

Costs, Budgeting, and Resource Management

Wood processing can be a cost-effective way to heat your home, but it’s important to factor in all the costs involved.

Initial Investment

Chainsaw: $200 – $1000+
Axe: $50 – $200
Splitting Wedge: $20 – $50
Stihl BR 700 Backpack Blower: $600 – $700
Safety Gear (helmet, gloves, eye protection): $100 – $200
Moisture Meter: $20 – $50

Ongoing Expenses

Fuel and Oil for Chainsaw
Chainsaw Chain Sharpening or Replacement
Maintenance and Repairs for Tools
Transportation Costs (if you need to haul wood)

Budgeting Tips:

Prioritize Safety: Invest in high-quality safety gear.
Buy Used Equipment: Consider buying used tools to save money.
Shop Around: Compare prices from different retailers.
Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your tools and prevent costly repairs.
Season Wood in Advance: This allows you to avoid buying expensive firewood during the winter months.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

Now that you have a solid understanding of wood processing and firewood preparation, it’s time to put your knowledge into practice.

Action Plan

Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you need each year.
Gather Your Tools: Acquire the necessary tools and equipment.
Find a Source of Wood: Locate a reliable source of wood, such as your own property, a local logging company, or a firewood supplier.
Prepare Your Work Area: Clear and organize your workspace.
Start Processing: Begin felling, de-limbing, bucking, and splitting the wood.
Stack and Season: Stack the firewood properly and allow it to season for the appropriate amount of time.
Enjoy the Warmth: Burn the seasoned firewood in your fireplace or wood stove.

Additional Resources

Stihl Website: For information on the BR 700 and other Stihl products.
Local Logging Companies: For a source of raw timber.
Firewood Suppliers: For seasoned firewood.
Hardware Stores: For tools and equipment.
Online Forums and Communities: For advice and support from other wood processors.

Concluding Thoughts:

Wood processing and firewood preparation can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By following these pro tips and using the right tools, you can streamline your operation, improve your efficiency, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning fire. Remember to always prioritize safety and to respect the environment. With a little practice and perseverance, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a wood processing pro. Good luck, and happy cutting!