Dolmar 7910 Chainsaw Review (5 Pro Tips for Firewood Prep)

Let’s face it, dealing with firewood can be a real pain if you don’t have the right equipment and know-how. This guide is designed to help you, whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, to efficiently and safely prepare firewood. We’ll dive into specific techniques tailored for the Dolmar 7910, but the principles apply to many professional-grade chainsaws.

Understanding the User Intent

The user searching for “Dolmar 7910 Chainsaw Review (5 Pro Tips for Firewood Prep)” is likely looking for a combination of:

Dolmar 7910: A Quick Review

• Engine: 79cc, 2-stroke engine delivering serious power. This translates to faster cutting speeds and the ability to handle larger logs without bogging down.
• Weight: Around 13.6 lbs (without bar and chain). While it’s not the lightest saw, the power-to-weight ratio is excellent.
• Bar Length: Typically used with 20-24 inch bars, but can handle longer bars for felling larger trees.
• Features: Decompression valve for easier starting, magnesium crankcase for durability, and a side-access chain tensioner.
• Performance: Excellent for felling, bucking, and limbing. It cuts through hardwoods like oak and maple with ease.

My Experience: I’ve used the Dolmar 7910 for years, and it has consistently delivered exceptional performance. I’ve processed everything from small branches to massive oak logs with it. The power and reliability are unmatched in its class.

Is it for you? If you are a homeowner who cuts a moderate amount of firewood each year, this saw may be overkill. For professional users, or those who heat their homes entirely with wood, this is an excellent investment.

Alternatives: Stihl MS 462, Husqvarna 572XP

Key Concepts: Understanding Wood and Firewood

Before we dive into the tips, let’s cover some essential concepts:

• Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut and contains a high moisture content (often 50% or more). Seasoned wood has been dried and has a lower moisture content (ideally below 20%). Seasoned wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke.
• Hardwood vs. Softwood: Hardwoods (like oak, maple, and ash) are denser and burn hotter and longer than softwoods (like pine, fir, and spruce). Hardwoods are generally preferred for heating homes, while softwoods are good for kindling.
• Cord of Wood: A cord of wood is a stacked pile measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet.
• Moisture Content: The amount of water in wood, expressed as a percentage of the wood’s dry weight. Using a moisture meter is a MUST.

Pro Tip 1: Mastering Felling Techniques

Felling a tree safely and efficiently is the first step in firewood preparation. I can’t stress enough that proper training is crucial before attempting to fell a tree.

• Assess the Tree: Before you even start the saw, carefully assess the tree for lean, wind direction, and any dead branches. Look for obstacles in the tree’s intended fall path.
• Plan Your Escape Route: Always have a clear escape route planned at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall.
• The Notch Cut (Conventional or Humboldt): This cut determines the direction of the fall. The notch should be about 1/5 to 1/3 of the tree’s diameter. The angle of the notch should be between 45 and 70 degrees, depending on the tree and your preference. I personally prefer the conventional notch, but the Humboldt is good for trees with a heavy lean.
• The Back Cut: The back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the notch, slightly above the base of the notch. Leave a hinge of wood (about 10% of the tree’s diameter) to control the fall.
• Felling Wedges: Use felling wedges to help direct the fall, especially for trees with a lean. Drive the wedges into the back cut to push the tree over.
• Communication: If you are working with a partner, use clear hand signals and verbal communication.

Case Study: I once had to fell a large oak tree that had a significant lean towards a building. I used a combination of felling wedges and a pulling rope attached high in the tree to carefully control the direction of the fall. It took patience, but we brought it down safely and precisely.

Measurements: Notch cut depth: 1/3 of tree diameter. Hinge width: 10% of tree diameter. Escape route angle: 45 degrees.

Safety: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps when felling trees. Never fell a tree alone.

Pro Tip 2: Efficient Bucking Techniques with the Dolmar 7910

Bucking is the process of cutting the felled tree into manageable lengths for firewood. The Dolmar 7910’s power really shines here.

• Log Supports: Use log supports (sawbucks, tractor forks, or even other logs) to keep the log off the ground. This prevents the chain from hitting the dirt and dulling quickly.
• Cutting Lengths: Decide on the desired length for your firewood (typically 16-24 inches) based on the size of your wood stove or fireplace. Mark the log at the desired intervals.
• Tension and Compression: Be aware of tension and compression in the log. If the log is supported at both ends, the top is in compression, and the bottom is in tension. If the log is supported in the middle, the opposite is true.
• Cutting Techniques:
  • Log Supported at Both Ends: Make a partial cut from the top (compression side) about 1/3 of the way through. Then, make a cut from the bottom (tension side) to meet the first cut.
  • Log Supported in the Middle: Make a partial cut from the bottom (compression side) about 1/3 of the way through. Then, make a cut from the top (tension side) to meet the first cut.
  • Log on the Ground: Roll the log after making a partial cut to avoid pinching the saw.
• Boring Cut: The Dolmar 7910 is powerful enough to perform boring cuts (plunging the tip of the bar into the log) for removing sections. Be extremely careful when using this technique, as kickback is a significant risk.

My Experience: I once had a huge pile of logs to buck. I set up two sawbucks and used the Dolmar 7910 with a 24-inch bar. I was able to cut through the logs quickly and efficiently, significantly reducing the amount of time it took to process the wood.

Tool Specifications: Sawbuck height: 36-42 inches. Firewood length: 16-24 inches.

Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear. Be aware of kickback and use proper cutting techniques. Never cut above shoulder height.

Pro Tip 3: Strategic Limbing for Faster Processing

Limbing is the process of removing branches from the felled tree. This is often overlooked, but can drastically increase efficiency.

• Work from the Base Up: Start limbing at the base of the tree and work your way up. This allows you to walk along the trunk without tripping over branches.
• Use the Tree as a Support: Position yourself so that the tree trunk is between you and the branch you are cutting. This provides a natural barrier in case the branch kicks back.
• Cut on the Compression Side First: If the branch is under tension, cut on the compression side first to prevent pinching the saw.
• Small Branches: For small branches, you can often cut them in one swift motion.
• Large Branches: For larger branches, make a small undercut first, then cut from the top to prevent tearing the bark.
• Clear the Area: Regularly clear the limbed branches to keep the work area safe and organized.

My Experience: I used to just hack away at branches randomly. Now, I start at the base and work up, and make sure to clear the area often. This simple change has made limbing much faster and safer.

Benefits: Reduces tripping hazards, prevents saw pinching, and speeds up the overall process.

Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for kickback. Always use a firm stance and maintain control of the saw.

Pro Tip 4: Splitting Wood Efficiently: Hand Tools vs. Hydraulic Splitters

Splitting wood is often the most physically demanding part of firewood preparation. The choice between hand tools and hydraulic splitters depends on the volume of wood you need to process and your physical capabilities.

• Hand Tools:
  • Axes: Splitting axes have a heavier head and a wider angle than felling axes. They are designed to split wood along the grain.
  • Mauls: Mauls are heavier than axes and are used for splitting particularly tough or knotty wood.
  • Wedges: Steel wedges are driven into the wood with a sledgehammer to split stubborn logs.

• Hydraulic Splitters:

  • Electric Splitters: Suitable for homeowners with smaller volumes of wood.
  • Gas-Powered Splitters: More powerful and can handle larger volumes of wood.
  • Tonnage: Hydraulic splitters are rated by tonnage (the amount of force they can exert). A 20-ton splitter is generally sufficient for most firewood needs.

• Hand Splitting Techniques:

  • Choose the Right Wood: Straight-grained wood splits more easily than knotty wood.
  • Aim for Cracks: Look for natural cracks in the wood and aim your swing at them.
  • Use a Chopping Block: A sturdy chopping block provides a stable surface for splitting.
  • Proper Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a good grip on the axe or maul.
  • Swing with Your Whole Body: Use your legs and core to generate power for the swing.
• Hydraulic Splitter Techniques:
  • Position the Log: Place the log securely on the splitter’s table.
  • Adjust the Wedge Height: Adjust the wedge height to match the diameter of the log.
  • Engage the Splitter: Use the hydraulic control to push the log against the wedge.
  • Catch the Split Wood: Be prepared to catch the split wood as it falls.

Case Study: I used to split all my wood by hand. It was exhausting and time-consuming. I invested in a 25-ton gas-powered hydraulic splitter, and it has revolutionized my firewood preparation process. I can now split a cord of wood in a fraction of the time with much less effort.

Measurements: Axe weight: 6-8 lbs. Maul weight: 8-12 lbs. Hydraulic splitter tonnage: 20-25 tons.

Strategic Advantages: Hydraulic splitters significantly increase efficiency and reduce physical strain. Hand tools are a good option for smaller volumes of wood or for those who prefer a more physical workout.

Safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood. Be aware of your surroundings and keep children and pets away from the work area. With hydraulic splitters, keep hands clear of the splitting area.

Pro Tip 5: Proper Stacking and Seasoning for Optimal Burning

Proper stacking and seasoning are crucial for ensuring that your firewood burns efficiently and cleanly.

• Elevated Stacking: Stack the wood on pallets or other elevated surfaces to allow for air circulation underneath.
• Loose Stacking: Stack the wood loosely to allow for air to circulate around each piece.
• Sun and Wind Exposure: Choose a location that receives plenty of sun and wind to promote drying.
• Top Cover: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp or other waterproof material to protect the wood from rain and snow. Leave the sides open for ventilation.
• Stacking Methods:
  • Traditional Rows: Stack the wood in rows, leaving small gaps between each piece.
  • Round Stacks (Holz Hausen): A traditional European method of stacking wood in a circular shape with a slight inward slope. This method promotes good air circulation and stability.
• Seasoning Time: Allow the wood to season for at least 6-12 months, depending on the type of wood and the climate. Hardwoods generally take longer to season than softwoods.
• Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood before burning. Aim for a moisture content below 20%.

My Experience: I used to just pile my firewood in a heap. It took forever to dry, and it often got moldy. Now, I stack it on pallets in rows, cover the top with a tarp, and use a moisture meter to check the moisture content. The difference in burning quality is remarkable.

Benefits: Drier wood burns more efficiently, produces less smoke, and reduces creosote buildup in chimneys.

Measurements: Target moisture content: below 20%. Seasoning time: 6-12 months.

Case Study: I conducted an experiment comparing two piles of oak firewood. One pile was stacked loosely on pallets and covered with a tarp, while the other was piled in a heap on the ground. After 12 months, the moisture content of the properly stacked wood was 18%, while the moisture content of the heap was still above 30%. The properly stacked wood burned much hotter and cleaner.

Safety: Wear gloves when handling firewood to protect your hands from splinters. Be careful when stacking wood to avoid back injuries.

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Chain Maintenance: Keep your chainsaw chain sharp and properly lubricated. A dull chain is not only less efficient but also more dangerous.
• Bar Oil: Use high-quality bar oil to lubricate the chain and bar.
• Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper engine performance.
• Spark Plug: Replace the spark plug periodically.
• Fuel Mixture: Use the correct fuel-to-oil ratio for your chainsaw. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Noise Levels: Chainsaws are loud. Use hearing protection to prevent hearing damage.
• Local Regulations: Be aware of local regulations regarding firewood harvesting and burning.
• Wood Identification: Learn to identify different types of wood. This will help you choose the best wood for your needs.
• Firewood Storage: Store your seasoned firewood in a dry, well-ventilated location.
• Wood Ash: Wood ash can be used as a fertilizer in your garden.

Strategic Insights

• Time Management: Firewood preparation is a time-consuming process. Plan ahead and break the work into smaller tasks.
• Ergonomics: Use proper lifting techniques and take breaks to avoid strain and fatigue.
• Investment: Investing in quality tools and equipment will save you time and effort in the long run.
• Community: Consider joining a local firewood cooperative or sharing resources with neighbors.
• Sustainability: Practice sustainable forestry by harvesting wood responsibly and replanting trees.
• Moisture is Key: I can’t stress this enough; I have seen people go through a lot of work to get firewood, and then they burn it green and it doesn’t give off any heat.

Next Steps

Now that you have a solid understanding of firewood preparation techniques, it’s time to put them into practice.

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you need and what type of wood is available in your area.
2. Gather Your Tools and Equipment: Make sure you have the necessary tools, including a chainsaw, axe, maul, hydraulic splitter (if desired), and safety gear.
3. Find a Source of Wood: Identify a source of wood, such as your own property, a local tree service, or a firewood supplier.
4. Start Felling, Bucking, and Limbing: Follow the techniques outlined in this guide to safely and efficiently process the wood.
5. Split and Stack the Wood: Split the wood into manageable pieces and stack it properly for seasoning.
6. Season the Wood: Allow the wood to season for at least 6-12 months.
7. Enjoy Your Firewood: Once the wood is properly seasoned, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning fire.

By following these pro tips and using the Dolmar 7910 (or a similar high-quality chainsaw) effectively, you can significantly improve your firewood preparation process and enjoy the benefits of a sustainable and cost-effective heating source. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice responsible forestry.

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