Electric Start Chainsaw Guide (Pro Tips For Faster Woodcutting)

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how electric start chainsaws have revolutionized woodcutting, making the job accessible to a wider range of people. In this guide, I’ll share my knowledge and experience to help you master the art of using an electric start chainsaw for faster and more efficient woodcutting. I will also focus on the pet-friendly choices.

Understanding Electric Start Chainsaws

Electric start chainsaws offer a significant advantage over traditional pull-start models: convenience. No more struggling with a stubborn engine, especially in cold weather. But before diving into the pro tips, let’s cover the basics.

What is an Electric Start Chainsaw?

An electric start chainsaw utilizes a small electric motor, powered by a battery, to crank the engine. This eliminates the need for a manual pull cord. These chainsaws are available in both gas-powered and battery-powered (cordless) versions.

Gas vs. Battery: Which is Right for You?

This is a crucial decision. Here’s a breakdown:

Gas-Powered Electric Start Chainsaws: These offer more power and longer run times, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees or processing significant amounts of firewood. They require fuel and oil maintenance, like any other gas-powered equipment.
Battery-Powered Electric Start Chainsaws: These are quieter, lighter, and require less maintenance. They are perfect for smaller jobs like pruning, limbing, and cutting small-diameter wood. Run time depends on battery capacity, so consider purchasing extra batteries for larger projects. Pet owners tend to prefer these due to the reduced noise and emissions.

My Experience: I started with a gas-powered chainsaw for the heavy lifting, but I quickly realized the convenience of a battery-powered model for smaller tasks around the yard. Now, I use both depending on the job.

Key Features to Consider

Bar Length: The bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut. Choose a bar length appropriate for the size of trees you typically work with. A 16-18 inch bar is generally sufficient for most homeowners.
Engine Size/Voltage: For gas-powered models, engine size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). Higher cc means more power. For battery-powered models, voltage indicates power. 40V or higher is generally recommended for decent performance.
Weight: Chainsaws can be heavy, especially gas-powered models. Consider the weight, especially if you’ll be using it for extended periods.
Safety Features: Look for features like chain brakes, anti-vibration systems, and throttle interlocks. Chain brakes are crucial for preventing kickback injuries.
Automatic Chain Oiler: This feature automatically lubricates the chain, extending its life and ensuring smooth cutting.
Tool-less Chain Tensioning: This makes adjusting the chain tension quick and easy, without the need for extra tools.
Battery Compatibility (for Battery-Powered Models): If you already own other battery-powered tools from a specific brand, choose a chainsaw that uses the same battery platform for added convenience.

Takeaway: Carefully consider your needs and the types of woodcutting tasks you’ll be performing before choosing an electric start chainsaw.

Essential Safety Gear and Practices

Safety is paramount when operating a chainsaw. Never compromise on safety, no matter how experienced you are.

Mandatory Safety Gear

Chainsaw Helmet: Protects your head from falling branches and debris. Choose a helmet with a face shield and ear protection.
Eye Protection: Even with a face shield, wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from sawdust and flying chips.
Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Use earplugs or earmuffs to prevent hearing damage.
Chainsaw Gloves: These gloves have reinforced padding on the back to protect your hands from cuts.
Chainsaw Chaps or Pants: These are made of ballistic nylon and are designed to stop the chain in the event of kickback.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and potential chainsaw accidents.

Safe Operating Procedures

Read the Manual: Always read and understand the chainsaw’s operating manual before using it.
Inspect the Chainsaw: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw for any damage or loose parts. Check the chain tension and oil level.
Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles, such as rocks, branches, and debris, from the work area.
Maintain a Firm Stance: Keep your feet firmly planted and maintain a balanced stance.
Use Proper Cutting Techniques: Learn and practice proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback and other hazards.
Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height is dangerous and increases the risk of losing control of the chainsaw.
Be Aware of Kickback: Kickback is a sudden and violent upward or backward movement of the chainsaw. Be aware of the potential for kickback and take steps to avoid it.
Don’t Work Alone: Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency.
Take Breaks: Chainsaw operation can be tiring. Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue and maintain focus.
Pet Safety: Keep pets far away from the cutting area. The noise and flying debris can be frightening and dangerous.

My Experience: I once witnessed a near-miss when a colleague neglected to wear eye protection. A small chip of wood flew into his eye, causing a temporary but painful injury. This incident reinforced the importance of wearing all the necessary safety gear, every time.

Takeaway: Safety is not an option; it’s a necessity. Always wear the appropriate safety gear and follow safe operating procedures when using a chainsaw.

Mastering Basic Woodcutting Techniques

Proper cutting techniques are essential for both safety and efficiency. Let’s cover some fundamental techniques.

Felling a Small Tree

Plan Your Escape Route: Before making any cuts, plan your escape route in case the tree falls in an unexpected direction.
Make a Notch Cut: Cut a notch on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
Make a Back Cut: Make a back cut on the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the notch. Leave a hinge of wood to control the direction of the fall.
Wedge the Cut (if Necessary): If the tree doesn’t start to fall on its own, use a wedge to help push it over.
Retreat Safely: Once the tree starts to fall, retreat quickly and safely along your planned escape route.

Limbing

Work from the Base to the Top: Start by removing the lower branches and work your way up the tree.
Support the Limb: Support the limb with your hand or foot before cutting it to prevent it from pinching the chain.
Cut on the Opposite Side: Cut on the opposite side of the limb from where you are standing to avoid being hit by the falling limb.
Be Aware of Springback: Be careful of branches that are under tension, as they can spring back when cut.

Bucking (Cutting Logs into Smaller Pieces)

Support the Log: Support the log to prevent it from pinching the chain. Use logs, rocks, or wedges to create a stable cutting surface.
Cut from the Top Down: Cut from the top down, using the weight of the log to help open the cut.
Avoid Cutting into the Ground: Be careful not to cut into the ground, as this can damage the chain.

My Experience: I remember struggling with bucking my first large log. I kept pinching the chain and getting frustrated. An experienced logger showed me the importance of proper support and cutting techniques. It made a world of difference.

Takeaway: Practice these basic woodcutting techniques to improve your safety and efficiency.

Pro Tips for Faster Woodcutting

Now, let’s get into the pro tips that will help you cut wood faster and more efficiently with your electric start chainsaw.

Sharpen Your Chain Regularly

A sharp chain is crucial for fast and efficient woodcutting. A dull chain will require more force, increase the risk of kickback, and put unnecessary strain on the chainsaw.

How Often to Sharpen: Sharpen your chain every time you refuel the chainsaw (for gas models) or after every battery charge (for battery models). You should also sharpen the chain if you notice it’s cutting slowly or producing fine sawdust instead of chips.
Using a Chainsaw Sharpener: You can use a manual chainsaw sharpener or an electric chainsaw sharpener. Manual sharpeners are more affordable and portable, but electric sharpeners are faster and more precise.
Maintaining the Correct Angle: It’s important to maintain the correct angle when sharpening the chain. Consult your chainsaw’s manual for the recommended angle.
Pet Considerations: When sharpening, ensure that metal filings are properly contained and disposed of to prevent ingestion by pets.

My Experience: I used to neglect sharpening my chain, thinking it was a waste of time. But once I started sharpening it regularly, I was amazed at how much faster and easier it was to cut wood.

Takeaway: A sharp chain is essential for fast and efficient woodcutting. Sharpen your chain regularly using a chainsaw sharpener or file.

Optimize Chain Tension

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

Checking Chain Tension: To check the chain tension, lift the chain in the middle of the bar. The chain should lift slightly, but not so much that the drive links come out of the bar groove.
Adjusting Chain Tension: Most chainsaws have a tool-less chain tensioning system. Simply loosen the bar nuts and turn the tensioning screw until the chain is properly tensioned.
Adjusting for Temperature: The chain will expand as it heats up during use. Adjust the chain tension accordingly.

Takeaway: Maintain proper chain tension for safe and efficient operation. Check and adjust the chain tension regularly.

Use the Right Chain for the Job

Different types of chains are designed for different cutting applications. Using the wrong chain can reduce your cutting speed and increase the risk of kickback.

Full Chisel Chains: These chains have square-cornered cutters and are designed for fast, smooth cutting in clean wood. They are not suitable for cutting dirty or frozen wood.
Semi-Chisel Chains: These chains have rounded-cornered cutters and are more durable than full chisel chains. They are suitable for cutting a wider range of wood types, including dirty or frozen wood.
Low-Kickback Chains: These chains are designed to reduce the risk of kickback. They are a good choice for beginners or anyone who is concerned about kickback.

My Experience: I once tried to cut through a knotty piece of oak with a full chisel chain. The chain kept binding and kicking back. I switched to a semi-chisel chain, and it cut through the knot with ease.

Takeaway: Choose the right chain for the job to maximize your cutting speed and safety.

Maintain Proper Lubrication

Proper lubrication is essential for extending the life of the chain and bar. Insufficient lubrication can cause the chain and bar to overheat, leading to premature wear and failure.

Checking Oil Level: Check the oil level before each use.
Using the Right Oil: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws.
Adjusting Oil Flow: Some chainsaws have an adjustable oil flow. Adjust the oil flow according to the cutting conditions.

Takeaway: Maintain proper lubrication to extend the life of your chain and bar. Check the oil level and use the right oil.

Use Proper Body Positioning and Leverage

Proper body positioning and leverage can significantly reduce fatigue and increase your cutting speed.

Keep Your Back Straight: Avoid bending at the waist. Keep your back straight and bend your knees.
Use Your Legs: Use your legs to power the chainsaw, not your arms.
Keep the Chainsaw Close to Your Body: Keeping the chainsaw close to your body will give you more control and reduce fatigue.
Avoid Overreaching: Avoid overreaching. Move your feet as needed to maintain a comfortable and balanced stance.

Takeaway: Use proper body positioning and leverage to reduce fatigue and increase your cutting speed.

Clear Debris Regularly

Sawdust and wood chips can accumulate around the chain and bar, reducing cutting efficiency and increasing the risk of overheating.

Clean the Chain and Bar: Clean the chain and bar regularly with a brush or compressed air.
Clear the Sprocket Area: Clear the sprocket area of any debris.
Check the Air Filter: Check the air filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed.

Takeaway: Clear debris regularly to maintain cutting efficiency and prevent overheating.

Plan Your Cuts

Before making any cuts, take a moment to plan your cuts. This will help you avoid mistakes and increase your cutting speed.

Visualize the Cut: Visualize the cut before you make it.
Identify Potential Hazards: Identify any potential hazards, such as knots, nails, or rocks.
Determine the Best Cutting Angle: Determine the best cutting angle for the job.
Ensure Adequate Support: Ensure that the wood is properly supported.

Takeaway: Plan your cuts before you make them to avoid mistakes and increase your cutting speed.

Maintain Your Chainsaw Regularly

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw in good working order and extending its life.

Clean the Chainsaw: Clean the chainsaw after each use.
Inspect the Chainsaw: Inspect the chainsaw regularly for any damage or loose parts.
Replace Worn Parts: Replace worn parts as needed.
Store the Chainsaw Properly: Store the chainsaw in a dry place.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance.

Takeaway: Maintain your chainsaw regularly to keep it in good working order and extend its life.

Practice Makes Perfect

The more you practice, the better you will become at using a chainsaw.

Start with Small Projects: Start with small projects and gradually work your way up to larger projects.
Take a Chainsaw Safety Course: Consider taking a chainsaw safety course to learn proper techniques and safety procedures.
Seek Advice from Experienced Users: Seek advice from experienced chainsaw users.
Be Patient: Be patient and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.

Takeaway: Practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the better you will become at using a chainsaw.

Advanced Firewood Preparation Methods

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced firewood preparation methods.

Splitting Techniques

Splitting wood efficiently is crucial for firewood preparation. Here are some techniques:

Using a Maul: A maul is a heavy, wedge-shaped tool used for splitting wood. Place the wood on a chopping block and swing the maul down on the wood.
Using a Wedge and Sledgehammer: Place a wedge on the wood and strike it with a sledgehammer. This is useful for splitting larger pieces of wood.
Using a Log Splitter: A log splitter is a hydraulic machine that splits wood with ease. Log splitters are available in both gas-powered and electric models.

My Experience: I used to split wood by hand with a maul, which was back-breaking work. Investing in a log splitter was one of the best decisions I ever made. It saved me a lot of time and effort.

Wood Drying and Seasoning

Proper wood drying and seasoning is essential for producing high-quality firewood.

Why Season Wood? Seasoning reduces the moisture content of the wood, making it easier to burn and producing more heat.
How to Season Wood: Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry for at least six months, or preferably a year.
Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%. Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood.

Takeaway: Proper wood drying and seasoning is essential for producing high-quality firewood.

Timber Grading

Understanding timber grading is important for selecting the best wood for firewood.

Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods, such as oak and maple, are denser and produce more heat than softwoods, such as pine and fir.
Knot Density: Wood with fewer knots is easier to split and burns more evenly.
Rot and Decay: Avoid using wood that is rotten or decayed.

Takeaway: Understanding timber grading can help you select the best wood for firewood.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

Let’s look at some real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the benefits of using electric start chainsaws and proper woodcutting techniques.

Case Study 1: Small-Scale Logging Operation

A small-scale logging operation in the Pacific Northwest replaced their traditional pull-start chainsaws with electric start models. They found that the electric start chainsaws were easier to start, especially in cold weather, which significantly reduced downtime. They also reported a decrease in worker fatigue and an increase in productivity.

Case Study 2: Firewood Producer

A firewood producer in the Northeast invested in a log splitter and a wood drying kiln. They found that the log splitter significantly reduced the time and effort required to split wood, while the wood drying kiln allowed them to produce seasoned firewood year-round. This increased their production capacity and profitability.

My Experience: I once helped a friend clear a large area of land for a new house. We used a combination of gas-powered and battery-powered electric start chainsaws to fell the trees, limb the branches, and buck the logs. The electric start chainsaws made the job much easier and faster.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced woodcutters can make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Neglecting Safety Gear: Never compromise on safety. Always wear the appropriate safety gear.
Using a Dull Chain: A dull chain is dangerous and inefficient. Sharpen your chain regularly.
Improper Chain Tension: Maintain proper chain tension for safe and efficient operation.
Cutting Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height is dangerous and increases the risk of losing control of the chainsaw.
Working Alone: Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency.
Ignoring Pet Safety: Always consider pet safety.

Conclusion

Electric start chainsaws have made woodcutting more accessible and efficient for a wide range of users. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can master the art of using an electric start chainsaw for faster and more efficient woodcutting. Remember to prioritize safety, maintain your equipment, and practice proper cutting techniques. With a little knowledge and experience, you’ll be able to tackle any woodcutting project with confidence.