DeWalt Chainsaw Guide (5 Pro Tips for Perfect Cuts)

DeWalt Chainsaw Guide: 5 Pro Tips for Perfect Cuts

The “Must-Have” Angle: Mastering the Art of the Chainsaw – From Novice to Pro

Let’s face it: a chainsaw in the wrong hands is a dangerous tool. But in the right hands, it’s a powerful partner for tackling everything from storm cleanup to firewood preparation to even small-scale logging. I’ve spent years felling trees, bucking logs, and milling lumber, and I’ve learned that the difference between a frustrating, potentially dangerous experience and a smooth, efficient operation boils down to technique. This guide isn’t just about using a DeWalt chainsaw; it’s about understanding the why behind each cut, empowering you to make perfect cuts every time. Think of it as your personal masterclass in chainsaw artistry.

1. Chainsaw Selection and Setup: Laying the Foundation for Success

Before you even think about firing up your DeWalt chainsaw, it’s crucial to ensure you have the right saw for the job and that it’s properly set up. This means considering bar length, chain type, and tension.

1.1. Choosing the Right Chainsaw Model

DeWalt offers a range of chainsaws, primarily cordless models these days, catering to various needs. I’ve used several, and here’s a simplified breakdown to help you choose:

• DeWalt 20V MAX Compact Chainsaw (DCCS620): Ideal for light-duty tasks like pruning small branches and cutting firewood from smaller logs (up to 8-10 inches in diameter). It’s lightweight and maneuverable, making it great for beginners.
• DeWalt 60V MAX Flexvolt Chainsaw (DCCS670): A step up in power, suitable for felling small trees (up to 12-14 inches), bucking larger firewood logs, and general property maintenance. The Flexvolt battery system provides impressive runtime.
• DeWalt 60V MAX Flexvolt Chainsaw (DCCS677): Similar to the DCCS670 but often features a chain brake and other enhanced safety features. Always prioritize safety!
• DeWalt 60V MAX Flexvolt 18-Inch Chainsaw (DCCS672): This model offers an extended bar length for handling larger diameter trees and logs, making it suitable for more demanding tasks.

Key Specs to Consider:

Personal Experience: I recall a time when I underestimated the size of the trees I needed to fell and used the 20V MAX compact chainsaw. While it eventually got the job done, it took significantly longer and put unnecessary strain on the saw. Lesson learned: always match the saw to the task!

1.2. Bar and Chain Selection: The Perfect Match

The bar length should be slightly longer than the diameter of the wood you’ll be cutting. A longer bar allows you to cut through thicker logs in a single pass, reducing the risk of kickback.

Chain Type:

• Low-Profile Chains: These chains have a smaller cutter and are designed for safety and ease of use, making them ideal for beginners and smaller saws. They produce less vibration and kickback.
• Full-Chisel Chains: These chains have a square-cornered cutter that slices through wood quickly and efficiently. They are best suited for experienced users and larger saws.
• Semi-Chisel Chains: A compromise between low-profile and full-chisel chains, offering a good balance of cutting speed and safety.

Chain Pitch and Gauge: These measurements must match your chainsaw’s specifications. Consult your DeWalt chainsaw manual for the correct pitch and gauge.

Technical Note: The chain pitch is the distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two. The chain gauge is the thickness of the drive links. Using the wrong pitch or gauge can damage your chainsaw.

1.3. Chain Tension: Finding the Sweet Spot

Proper chain tension is critical for safe and efficient cutting. A chain that is too loose can derail, while a chain that is too tight can overheat and break.

How to Check Chain Tension:

1. Wear gloves! Chains are sharp.
2. Loosen the bar nuts slightly.
3. Adjust the tensioning screw until the chain sits snugly against the bar, with the drive links partially engaged in the bar groove.
4. Lift the chain in the middle of the bar. You should be able to pull it out about 1/8 inch.
5. Tighten the bar nuts securely.

Pro Tip: Check chain tension frequently, especially when the chain is new. A new chain will stretch as it breaks in. I always carry a small wrench with me in the field to make adjustments on the fly.

1.4. Oiling System: The Lifeblood of Your Chainsaw

The automatic oiler keeps the chain and bar lubricated, reducing friction and preventing overheating. Always use a high-quality bar and chain oil.

Checking the Oiler:

1. Fill the oil reservoir before each use.
2. Start the chainsaw and hold it over a piece of cardboard.
3. You should see a steady stream of oil being thrown off the chain.

Troubleshooting: If the oiler isn’t working, check the oil level, the oil filter, and the oil pump. A clogged oil filter is a common problem.

2. Mastering the Fundamentals: Stance, Grip, and Cutting Techniques

Now that your chainsaw is properly set up, it’s time to focus on your technique. Proper stance, grip, and cutting techniques are essential for safety and control.

2.1. The Importance of a Solid Stance

Your stance is your foundation. A stable stance allows you to control the chainsaw and react quickly to unexpected movements.

• Feet: Position your feet shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly ahead of the other.
• Knees: Keep your knees slightly bent to absorb shock.
• Weight: Distribute your weight evenly on both feet.

Why it Matters: I once saw a colleague lose his balance while felling a small tree because he was standing on uneven ground. He narrowly avoided a serious injury. Always assess your surroundings before you start cutting.

2.2. The Two-Handed Grip: Maximum Control

Always use a two-handed grip on the chainsaw. Your left hand should grip the front handle, and your right hand should grip the rear handle.

• Thumbs: Wrap your thumbs firmly around the handles. This is crucial for preventing kickback.
• Arms: Keep your arms slightly bent to absorb shock.

Kickback Prevention: Kickback occurs when the tip of the chainsaw bar catches on an object, causing the saw to suddenly jump back towards the operator. A firm two-handed grip and proper cutting techniques are the best ways to prevent kickback.

2.3. Basic Cutting Techniques: Felling, Bucking, and Limbing

• Felling (Cutting Down a Tree): This is the most dangerous chainsaw operation and should only be attempted by experienced users. It involves making a notch cut and a back cut to fell the tree in a controlled direction.
• Bucking (Cutting a Log into Shorter Lengths): This involves cutting the log into manageable pieces for firewood or other purposes.
• Limbing (Removing Branches from a Fallen Tree): This involves cutting off the branches from the trunk of the tree.

Detailed Bucking Techniques

Bucking is the process of cutting a felled tree into manageable sections. Here are three common techniques:

• Top Binding: Occurs when the log is supported at both ends, causing compression on the top. To avoid pinching, make a cut one-third of the way through from the top, then finish the cut from the bottom.
• Bottom Binding: Occurs when the log is supported in the middle, causing compression on the bottom. Cut one-third of the way through from the bottom, then finish from the top.
• Side Binding: Occurs when the log is lying on its side and is under tension. Make a relief cut on the compression side before completing the cut.

Pro Tip: Always use a wedge to prevent the bar from pinching when bucking logs. I’ve learned this the hard way – getting a bar pinched in a log is frustrating and potentially dangerous.

2.4. The Importance of Sharpness

A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. A dull chain requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback and fatigue.

Sharpening Your Chain:

• Use a chainsaw sharpening kit with the correct file size for your chain.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sharpening.
• Maintain the correct cutting angle and depth.

How Often to Sharpen: I sharpen my chain every few hours of use, or whenever I notice it’s cutting slowly or producing fine sawdust instead of chips.

Technical Note: The correct filing angle for most chainsaw chains is between 25 and 35 degrees. Consult your chainsaw manual for the specific angle for your chain.

3. Advanced Cutting Techniques: Precision and Efficiency

Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, you can move on to more advanced cutting techniques. These techniques will help you make precise cuts, increase your efficiency, and reduce the risk of injury.

3.1. The Bore Cut: A Versatile Technique

The bore cut is a technique used to remove a section of wood from the middle of a log. It’s useful for creating notches, removing knots, and freeing up pinched bars.

How to Perform a Bore Cut:

1. Position the chainsaw so that the tip of the bar is pointing towards the center of the log.
2. Engage the chain and slowly plunge the tip of the bar into the wood.
3. Once the bar is buried in the wood, pivot the saw to create the desired cut.

Safety First: Bore cuts can be dangerous if not performed correctly. Always use a firm grip and be aware of the potential for kickback.

3.2. The Hinge: Controlling the Fall

When felling trees, the hinge is a crucial element for controlling the direction of the fall. The hinge is a strip of uncut wood that connects the stump to the falling tree.

Hinge Dimensions: The width of the hinge should be about 80% of the tree’s diameter. The thickness of the hinge should be about 10% of the tree’s diameter.

Hinge Placement: The hinge should be placed on the side of the tree that you want it to fall towards.

Data Point: Studies have shown that trees felled with properly sized and placed hinges are significantly less likely to barber chair (split up the trunk during the fall).

3.3. Milling with a Chainsaw: Turning Logs into Lumber

While not the primary purpose of a standard DeWalt chainsaw, with the right attachments, you can mill logs into lumber. This is a great way to utilize trees that are too small for commercial milling or that have unique grain patterns.

Chainsaw Milling Attachments:

• Alaskan Chainsaw Mill: This is a frame that attaches to your chainsaw and allows you to make consistent, parallel cuts.
• Edging Mill: This attachment helps you square up the edges of the lumber.

Milling Technique:

1. Attach the Alaskan Chainsaw Mill to your chainsaw.
2. Set the desired thickness of the lumber.
3. Make the first cut to flatten one side of the log.
4. Rotate the log and make the second cut to create a parallel surface.
5. Continue rotating the log and making cuts until you have the desired amount of lumber.

Technical Requirement: Chainsaw milling requires a powerful chainsaw and a sharp chain. I recommend using a full-chisel chain for milling.

3.4. Understanding Wood Properties: The Key to Clean Cuts

The type of wood you’re cutting significantly impacts the cutting process. Understanding the properties of different wood species will help you make cleaner, more efficient cuts.

Hardwoods vs. Softwoods:

• Hardwoods: Generally denser and more difficult to cut than softwoods. Examples include oak, maple, and cherry.
• Softwoods: Generally less dense and easier to cut than hardwoods. Examples include pine, fir, and spruce.

Wood Moisture Content:

• Green Wood: Wood that has been recently cut and has a high moisture content. Green wood is easier to cut than dry wood but is more prone to warping and cracking.
• Dry Wood: Wood that has been dried to a low moisture content. Dry wood is more difficult to cut than green wood but is more stable and less prone to warping and cracking.

Data Point: The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%. Firewood with a moisture content above 20% will be difficult to light and will produce a lot of smoke.

Personal Insight: I once tried to mill lumber from a green oak log. The chain kept binding, and the cuts were rough and uneven. I learned that it’s best to let hardwoods dry for several months before milling them.

4. Safety First: Preventing Accidents and Injuries

Chainsaw safety is paramount. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe operating procedures.

4.1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Your First Line of Defense

• Helmet: Protects your head from falling branches and kickback.
• Eye Protection: Protects your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing Protection: Protects your ears from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
• Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
• Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and chainsaw cuts.

Important Note: Always inspect your PPE before each use. Replace any damaged or worn-out equipment.

4.2. Safe Operating Procedures: Minimizing Risk

• Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the operating instructions for your DeWalt chainsaw.
• Inspect the Chainsaw: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw for any damage or defects.
• Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles from the work area.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep bystanders at least two tree lengths away from the work area.
• Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height is dangerous and increases the risk of losing control of the chainsaw.
• Never Cut with One Hand: Always use a two-handed grip on the chainsaw.
• Take Breaks: Chainsaw operation can be physically demanding. Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.

Case Study: A local logger I know was seriously injured when he cut above shoulder height and lost control of the chainsaw. He suffered a deep cut to his arm and required extensive surgery. This is a stark reminder of the importance of following safe operating procedures.

4.3. Understanding Kickback: The Silent Threat

Kickback is one of the most common causes of chainsaw injuries. It occurs when the tip of the chainsaw bar catches on an object, causing the saw to suddenly jump back towards the operator.

Preventing Kickback:

• Use a Chainsaw with Kickback Reduction Features: Many DeWalt chainsaws have features such as low-kickback chains and chain brakes that help to reduce the risk of kickback.
• Avoid Plunging the Tip of the Bar into the Wood: This is a common cause of kickback.
• Keep the Chain Sharp: A dull chain requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback.
• Maintain a Firm Grip: A firm grip on the chainsaw will help you control it if kickback occurs.

Remember: Even with all the safety features, kickback can still occur. Always be aware of the potential for kickback and take steps to prevent it.

5. Maintenance and Storage: Extending the Life of Your Chainsaw

Proper maintenance and storage are essential for extending the life of your DeWalt chainsaw and ensuring its safe operation.

5.1. Cleaning and Lubrication: Keeping Your Chainsaw Running Smoothly

• Clean the Chainsaw: After each use, clean the chainsaw with a brush and compressed air to remove sawdust and debris.
• Lubricate the Chain and Bar: Apply bar and chain oil to the chain and bar after each use.
• Clean the Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper engine performance.
• Clean the Spark Plug: Clean the spark plug periodically to ensure proper ignition.

Technical Tip: Use a solvent specifically designed for cleaning chainsaw parts. Avoid using gasoline or other flammable liquids.

5.2. Chain Sharpening and Replacement: Maintaining Cutting Performance

• Sharpen the Chain Regularly: Sharpen the chain every few hours of use, or whenever you notice it’s cutting slowly or producing fine sawdust instead of chips.
• Replace the Chain When Necessary: Replace the chain when it is worn out or damaged.

Warning Sign: If the chain is constantly losing its edge, it’s likely time to replace it. Continuing to use a worn-out chain can damage the bar and sprocket.

5.3. Proper Storage: Protecting Your Investment

• Store the Chainsaw in a Dry Place: Store the chainsaw in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Drain the Fuel Tank: If you are not going to use the chainsaw for an extended period of time, drain the fuel tank to prevent the fuel from going stale.
• Remove the Battery: If you have a cordless chainsaw, remove the battery before storing it.
• Cover the Chainsaw: Cover the chainsaw with a protective cover to keep it clean and protected from the elements.

Best Practice: I store my chainsaw in a dedicated case in my garage. This keeps it clean, dry, and protected from damage.

Conclusion: The Path to Perfect Cuts

Mastering the chainsaw is a journey, not a destination. By following these pro tips, practicing safe operating procedures, and maintaining your equipment properly, you can achieve perfect cuts every time and enjoy the satisfaction of working with wood. Remember, safety is always the top priority. Take your time, be patient, and never hesitate to ask for help from a qualified professional. With dedication and practice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a chainsaw artist.

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