Chain Saw Dogs (3 Pro Tips For Efficient Woodcuts)

Here’s the solution to faster, safer, and more efficient woodcuts: mastering the use of your chainsaw’s bucking spikes, more commonly known as chain saw dogs. I’ve spent years felling trees and processing timber, and I can tell you that these often-overlooked metal teeth are a game-changer. In this guide, I’ll share three pro tips to unlock their full potential, transforming how you approach woodcutting.

Chain Saw Dogs: 3 Pro Tips for Efficient Woodcuts

Chain saw dogs, those seemingly simple metal protrusions near the base of your chainsaw bar, are more than just decoration. They’re integral for levering and pivoting the saw during felling and bucking (cutting logs into shorter lengths). When used correctly, they significantly reduce fatigue, increase precision, and enhance safety. I’ve seen firsthand how mastering these tools can make even challenging cuts feel effortless.

Understanding Your Chain Saw Dogs

Before diving into the pro tips, let’s understand what chain saw dogs are and why they are important.

What are Chain Saw Dogs? These are metal spikes (single or double) attached to the chainsaw body near the bar’s base. They provide a pivot point and leverage during cutting.
Why are they Important? They reduce strain on the operator by providing a stable anchor, improve cutting accuracy, and enhance control, especially when dealing with larger logs. They also prevent the chainsaw from “pinching” or binding in the cut.

Pro Tip 1: The Pivoting Technique for Efficient Bucking

The pivoting technique is the foundation of efficient chainsaw use. It leverages the chain saw dogs to minimize lifting and repositioning of the saw, saving energy and improving accuracy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pivoting

Initial Placement: Position the dogs firmly against the log. Ensure the chain is not touching the wood. I usually aim for a point slightly above where I want to start the cut.
Engaging the Chain: With the dogs firmly planted, engage the chain and begin the cut. Let the dogs act as a pivot point.
Pivoting Downward: As the saw cuts deeper, pivot the saw downward, using the dogs as a fulcrum. This allows you to control the depth and angle of the cut without excessive lifting.
Maintaining Contact: Keep the dogs in constant contact with the log throughout the cut. This provides stability and control.
Completing the Cut: Once you’ve reached the desired depth, disengage the chain brake, lift the saw slightly, and continue the cut to completion.

Benefits of Pivoting

Reduced Fatigue: Minimizing lifting and repositioning of the saw saves significant energy, especially during extended cutting sessions.
Improved Accuracy: The stable pivot point allows for more precise cuts, reducing the risk of errors and waste.
Enhanced Control: The dogs provide better control over the saw, especially when cutting large or uneven logs.

Real-World Example

I remember one time I was bucking a large oak log into firewood. The log was about 24 inches in diameter, and I was using a 20-inch bar chainsaw. Without using the pivoting technique, each cut would have been a struggle, requiring me to lift and reposition the saw multiple times. However, by using the dogs as a pivot point, I was able to make each cut smoothly and efficiently, significantly reducing my fatigue and improving my overall cutting speed. I finished the job in about half the time it would have taken me otherwise.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Planting the Dogs Firmly: If the dogs are not firmly planted, they will slip, causing the saw to jump and potentially leading to inaccurate cuts or injury.
Lifting the Saw Excessively: The goal is to minimize lifting. Rely on the dogs to do the work.
Ignoring the Angle: Pay attention to the angle of the cut as you pivot. Adjust your technique as needed to maintain the desired angle.

Actionable Metrics

Time Savings: Track the time it takes you to buck a log using the pivoting technique versus without it. You should see a noticeable improvement.
Fatigue Reduction: Monitor your perceived exertion level after a cutting session. The pivoting technique should result in less fatigue.
Cut Accuracy: Measure the accuracy of your cuts. The pivoting technique should lead to more consistent and precise results.

Takeaway: Mastering the pivoting technique is crucial for efficient and safe bucking. By using the chain saw dogs as a pivot point, you can reduce fatigue, improve accuracy, and enhance control over your chainsaw.

Pro Tip 2: The Leveraging Technique for Felling Smaller Trees

When felling smaller trees, the leveraging technique using chain saw dogs provides stability and control, directing the fall with precision. This is particularly useful in tight spaces or when you need to control the direction of the fall.

Step-by-Step Guide to Leveraging

Making the Face Cut: Begin by making the face cut (also known as the notch) on the side of the tree you want it to fall. This cut consists of two angled cuts that meet to form a notch. I generally make the upper cut at a 45-degree angle and the lower cut horizontal.
Positioning the Dogs: After completing the face cut, position the chain saw dogs against the back of the tree, opposite the face cut. Ensure they are firmly planted.
Making the Back Cut: Begin the back cut, leaving a hinge of uncut wood. This hinge will help control the direction of the fall.
Leveraging the Saw: As you make the back cut, use the dogs as a lever to gently push the tree in the direction of the face cut. This can be achieved by applying slight pressure to the saw handle while keeping the dogs firmly planted.
Monitoring the Fall: Constantly monitor the tree’s movement and adjust your leverage as needed to control the fall.

Benefits of Leveraging

Controlled Fall: The leveraging technique allows you to control the direction of the fall, minimizing the risk of damage to property or injury to yourself or others.
Increased Stability: The dogs provide a stable anchor, preventing the saw from kicking back or becoming unstable during the cut.
Reduced Effort: By using the dogs as a lever, you can reduce the amount of force required to fell the tree.

Real-World Example

I once had to fell a small pine tree that was leaning precariously close to a power line. The space was tight, and there was no room for error. I carefully made the face cut and then used the leveraging technique with the chain saw dogs to gently guide the tree away from the power line. The tree fell exactly where I wanted it to, without any damage or incident. Without the leveraging technique, I would have been much more difficult and risky.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cutting Too Deep: Avoid cutting too deep into the tree, as this can weaken the hinge and cause the tree to fall uncontrollably.
Applying Too Much Pressure: Use gentle, controlled pressure when leveraging the saw. Excessive force can cause the tree to fall unpredictably.
Ignoring the Wind: Always consider the wind direction when felling a tree. The wind can significantly affect the direction of the fall.

Actionable Metrics

Felling Accuracy: Measure the distance between the actual fall point and the intended fall point. The leveraging technique should improve accuracy.
Hinge Integrity: Inspect the hinge after the fall to ensure it remained intact. A properly executed leveraging technique will result in a clean and intact hinge.
Safety Incidents: Track the number of safety incidents during felling operations. The leveraging technique should reduce the risk of accidents.

Takeaway: The leveraging technique is a valuable tool for felling smaller trees with precision and control. By using the chain saw dogs as a lever, you can direct the fall and minimize the risk of damage or injury.

Pro Tip 3: Using Chain Saw Dogs for Plunge Cuts

Plunge cuts, where you bore directly into the wood with the tip of the chainsaw, are often necessary for removing sections of timber or creating specific shapes. Chain saw dogs are crucial for controlling the saw during this potentially dangerous technique.

Step-by-Step Guide to Plunge Cuts

Preparation: Ensure your chain is sharp and properly tensioned. A dull or loose chain can increase the risk of kickback. I prefer using a full chisel chain for plunge cuts as they offer a more aggressive bite.
Positioning: With the saw running at idle speed, position the dogs firmly against the wood at the point where you want to start the cut. The tip of the bar should be close to the wood surface.
Controlled Entry: Slowly and carefully, begin to plunge the tip of the bar into the wood. Keep the dogs firmly planted and maintain a firm grip on the saw. It’s crucial to avoid forcing the saw; let the chain do the work.
Maintaining Depth: Once the bar is fully inserted, use the dogs as a pivot point to control the depth and direction of the cut. You can adjust the angle of the saw slightly to create different shapes or remove specific sections of wood.
Exiting the Cut: To exit the cut, slowly withdraw the bar while maintaining control of the saw. Be prepared for the saw to grab or kickback as you remove the tip from the wood.

Benefits of Using Dogs for Plunge Cuts

Kickback Reduction: The dogs provide a stable anchor, reducing the risk of kickback, a common hazard when plunge cutting.
Improved Control: The dogs allow for more precise control over the depth and direction of the cut.
Reduced Fatigue: The dogs help to stabilize the saw, reducing the amount of effort required to make the cut.

Real-World Example

I was once tasked with removing a large burl from the side of a standing oak tree. The burl was too large to simply cut off with a standard bucking technique. I used the plunge cut technique, utilizing the chain saw dogs to maintain control and prevent kickback. I was able to carefully remove the burl without damaging the surrounding tree.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forcing the Cut: Never force the saw into the wood. This can increase the risk of kickback and damage the chain or bar.
Using a Dull Chain: A dull chain will make plunge cuts more difficult and dangerous. Always ensure your chain is sharp before attempting a plunge cut.
Ignoring Safety Precautions: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves, when plunge cutting.

Actionable Metrics

Kickback Incidents: Monitor the number of kickback incidents during plunge cutting. Using the dogs correctly should significantly reduce the risk of kickback.
Cut Precision: Measure the accuracy of your plunge cuts. The dogs should allow for more precise and controlled cuts.
Chain Wear: Inspect your chain regularly for signs of wear or damage. Plunge cutting can be hard on chains, so it’s important to keep them properly maintained.

Takeaway: Plunge cuts can be a valuable technique for removing timber or creating specific shapes. By using the chain saw dogs correctly, you can reduce the risk of kickback and improve control over the saw, making the process safer and more efficient.

Maintaining Your Chain Saw Dogs

Proper maintenance of your chain saw dogs is essential for their continued effectiveness.

Cleaning: Regularly clean the dogs to remove sawdust, debris, and sap. A wire brush works well for this purpose.
Sharpening: While the dogs themselves don’t need to be sharpened, ensure they are not bent or damaged. If they are, replace them.
Tightening: Periodically check the bolts that secure the dogs to the saw body. Ensure they are tight to prevent the dogs from loosening during use.
Replacement: Replace the dogs if they become worn, damaged, or broken. Replacement dogs are readily available from most chainsaw dealers.

Safety Considerations

Using chain saw dogs correctly can significantly improve safety. However, it’s crucial to follow all standard chainsaw safety precautions.

Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots when operating a chainsaw.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep bystanders at a safe distance from the work area.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of potential hazards, such as power lines, trees, and uneven terrain.
Never Overreach: Avoid overreaching or cutting above shoulder height.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.

Choosing the Right Chain Saw Dogs

Different chainsaws come with different types of chain saw dogs. Some have single dogs, while others have double dogs. Some are fixed, while others are adjustable.

Single vs. Double Dogs: Double dogs generally provide more stability and leverage than single dogs.
Fixed vs. Adjustable Dogs: Adjustable dogs allow you to customize the position of the dogs to suit different cutting tasks.
Material: Look for dogs made from durable materials, such as hardened steel.

Choosing the right chain saw dogs for your chainsaw and cutting needs can further enhance your efficiency and safety. I personally prefer double dogs on my larger saws for added stability when felling larger trees.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the use of chain saw dogs is a fundamental skill for any chainsaw operator. By understanding the pivoting, leveraging, and plunge cutting techniques, you can significantly improve your efficiency, accuracy, and safety. Remember to maintain your dogs properly and always follow safe operating procedures. With practice and patience, you’ll be amazed at how much easier and more enjoyable woodcutting can be. So, get out there, put these tips into practice, and experience the difference that chain saw dogs can make!

Chain Saw Dogs (3 Pro Tips for Efficient Woodcuts)