Husqvarna 120 Mark II Review: Wood Processing Tips (5 Pro Hacks)

Investing in the right tools and techniques for wood processing and firewood preparation can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. By taking control of your wood supply, you reduce reliance on expensive store-bought firewood and ensure a steady source of fuel for heating or other needs. In this guide, I’ll share my experiences and insights into using the Husqvarna 120 Mark II chainsaw, along with five pro hacks to optimize your wood processing endeavors.

Husqvarna 120 Mark II Review: Wood Processing Tips (5 Pro Hacks)

The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is a lightweight, entry-level chainsaw, perfect for homeowners and those new to wood processing. I’ve spent countless hours working with this saw, and while it has its limitations, it’s a reliable tool for smaller tasks and learning the ropes. This review dives deep into its capabilities and how to maximize its potential with a few strategic techniques.

Understanding the Husqvarna 120 Mark II: A Personal Perspective

I remember the first time I picked up a chainsaw. It was intimidating, to say the least. The Husqvarna 120 Mark II was my gateway into the world of wood processing. Its lighter weight and ease of starting made it less daunting than some of the larger, more powerful models.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement: 38.2 cc
Power Output: 1.4 kW / 1.9 hp
Recommended Bar Length: 14-16 inches
Weight (without bar and chain): 4.85 kg / 10.7 lbs
Fuel Tank Volume: 0.3 liters
Oil Tank Volume: 0.15 liters

These specifications provide a good starting point. The 38.2cc engine offers sufficient power for limbing, felling small trees (up to 10-12 inches in diameter), and bucking firewood. The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, reducing fatigue during longer sessions.

Pros and Cons: My Real-World Experience

Pros:

Lightweight and Easy to Handle: This is its biggest strength. I can use it for extended periods without feeling overly tired.
Easy to Start: Husqvarna’s Smart Start technology makes starting the saw a breeze, even in cold weather. I’ve always appreciated this feature on chilly mornings.
Affordable: A great entry-level option for those on a budget.
Decent Power for its Size: Surprisingly capable for smaller tasks. I’ve cut through plenty of firewood with it.
User-Friendly: Simple controls and easy chain tensioning make it beginner-friendly.

Cons:

Limited Power for Larger Trees: Struggles with hardwoods and trees exceeding 12 inches in diameter. I learned this the hard way when trying to fell a larger oak.
Smaller Fuel and Oil Tanks: Requires frequent refueling and oiling, which can be a bit of a nuisance during longer projects.
Plastic Construction: Some components feel less durable than higher-end models. I’ve been careful to avoid rough handling to prolong its lifespan.
Vibration: Can cause fatigue during extended use. I recommend wearing good gloves to minimize vibration.

Takeaway: The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is a solid choice for homeowners and beginners who need a lightweight, easy-to-use chainsaw for smaller tasks. It’s not a professional-grade saw, but it’s reliable and affordable.

Pro Hack #1: Mastering the Bore Cut Technique

The bore cut, also known as the plunge cut, is a technique I use frequently to avoid pinching the chainsaw bar when felling small trees or bucking logs. It’s a game-changer for safety and efficiency.

What is a Bore Cut?

A bore cut involves plunging the tip of the chainsaw bar into the wood to create a notch before making the final cuts. This helps to relieve pressure and prevent the bar from getting pinched.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Bore Cut

Safety First: Ensure you’re wearing proper safety gear: helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps. Clear the area of any obstructions.
Stance: Stand with a stable stance, feet shoulder-width apart.
Initial Cut: Make a small notch on the side of the log where you want to start the bore cut.
Plunging: With the chain running at full speed, carefully plunge the tip of the bar into the wood at a shallow angle. Use the bottom of the bar to control the depth.
Creating the Notch: Once the bar is deep enough, pivot the saw to create a notch that is wide enough to allow the bar to move freely.
Completing the Cut: Finish the cut by sawing through the remaining wood, leaving a hinge if felling a tree.

Why the Bore Cut Matters

Prevents Pinching: Reduces the risk of the bar getting pinched, which can be dangerous and time-consuming.
Improved Control: Gives you more control over the direction of the cut, especially when felling trees.
Safer Felling: Allows you to create a hinge, which helps to control the direction of the fall.

Real-World Example

I was once felling a small maple tree in my backyard. Without using a bore cut, the bar got pinched, and the tree fell in an unexpected direction. Luckily, no one was hurt, but it was a valuable lesson. Now, I always use a bore cut, especially when felling trees in tight spaces.

Takeaway: Mastering the bore cut technique is essential for safe and efficient wood processing. It prevents pinching, improves control, and makes felling trees much safer.

Pro Hack #2: Optimizing Chain Sharpening for Peak Performance

A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. I’ve learned that regularly sharpening the chain is crucial for maintaining peak performance and extending the life of the Husqvarna 120 Mark II.

Why Chain Sharpening Matters

A sharp chain cuts smoothly and efficiently, reducing strain on the chainsaw engine and the operator. A dull chain, on the other hand, requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback and causing unnecessary wear and tear on the saw.

Tools You’ll Need

Chainsaw File: A round file that matches the pitch of your chain. For the Husqvarna 120 Mark II, a 5/32″ (4.0mm) file is typically used.
File Guide: A tool that helps you maintain the correct angle and depth when sharpening.
Depth Gauge Tool: Used to adjust the depth gauges (rakers) on the chain.
Flat File: Used to file down the depth gauges.
Vise: To securely hold the chainsaw bar while sharpening.

Step-by-Step Guide to Chain Sharpening

Secure the Bar: Place the chainsaw bar in a vise to hold it securely.
Identify the Correct File Size: Check your chainsaw manual or the chain itself to determine the correct file size.
Set the Angle: Use a file guide to maintain the correct sharpening angle. Typically, this is around 30 degrees.
Sharpen Each Cutter: File each cutter from the inside out, using smooth, consistent strokes. Aim for 3-5 strokes per cutter.
Maintain Consistency: Ensure that each cutter is sharpened to the same length and angle.
Adjust Depth Gauges: Use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (rakers). If they are too high, file them down using a flat file.
Test the Chain: After sharpening, test the chain by cutting a piece of wood. The chain should cut smoothly and efficiently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong File Size: This can damage the chain and make it difficult to sharpen properly.
Filing at the Wrong Angle: This can result in a chain that cuts poorly or is prone to kickback.
Not Maintaining Consistency: Unevenly sharpened cutters will cause the chain to cut unevenly and wear out prematurely.
Ignoring Depth Gauges: If the depth gauges are too high, the chain will not cut effectively.

My Chain Sharpening Routine

I sharpen my chainsaw chain after every few hours of use, or whenever I notice that it’s not cutting as smoothly as it should. I also use a file guide to ensure that I’m maintaining the correct angle and depth. This routine has helped me to extend the life of my chain and keep my chainsaw running at peak performance.

Takeaway: Regularly sharpening your chainsaw chain is essential for safety, efficiency, and extending the life of your saw. Invest in the right tools and learn the proper technique to keep your chain cutting smoothly.

Pro Hack #3: Mastering Limbing Techniques for Efficiency and Safety

Limbing, the process of removing branches from a felled tree, can be time-consuming and dangerous if not done correctly. I’ve developed a few techniques over the years that have made the process much more efficient and safer.

Why Limbing Techniques Matter

Proper limbing techniques can significantly reduce the risk of injury and make the process much faster. It’s also important to limb trees in a way that minimizes damage to the surrounding environment.

Essential Limbing Tools

Chainsaw: The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is well-suited for limbing smaller trees.
Axe or Hatchet: Useful for removing smaller branches.
Limbing Axe: A specialized tool designed for limbing trees quickly and efficiently.
Safety Gear: Helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps are essential.

Limbing Techniques: My Approach

Assess the Tree: Before starting, take a moment to assess the tree and identify any potential hazards, such as spring poles or branches under tension.
Start from the Base: Begin limbing from the base of the tree and work your way up. This allows you to work in a clear area and avoid tripping over branches.
Use the Undercut Method: When removing larger branches, use the undercut method. Make a small cut on the underside of the branch, followed by a cut from the top. This prevents the branch from pinching the chainsaw bar.
Keep the Chainsaw Close to Your Body: When limbing, keep the chainsaw close to your body and maintain a firm grip. Avoid reaching too far or overextending yourself.
Be Aware of Spring Poles: Spring poles are branches that are bent under tension. When you cut them, they can snap back with considerable force. Be extremely careful when limbing spring poles.
Clear the Area: As you limb, clear the area of branches to create a safe and clear workspace.

Real-World Example

I once saw a colleague get seriously injured while limbing a tree. He was rushing and didn’t properly assess the tree before starting. A spring pole snapped back and struck him in the face. This incident reinforced the importance of taking your time and using proper techniques when limbing.

Takeaway: Mastering limbing techniques is crucial for safety and efficiency. Assess the tree, use the undercut method, be aware of spring poles, and clear the area as you work.

Pro Hack #4: Efficient Bucking Techniques for Firewood Preparation

Bucking is the process of cutting logs into shorter lengths for firewood. I’ve found that using efficient bucking techniques can save a lot of time and effort.

Why Bucking Techniques Matter

Efficient bucking techniques can reduce the amount of time and effort required to prepare firewood. It’s also important to buck logs in a way that minimizes waste and maximizes the amount of usable firewood.

Essential Bucking Tools

Chainsaw: The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is suitable for bucking smaller logs.
Log Splitter: A log splitter can significantly reduce the amount of manual labor required to split firewood.
Measuring Tape: To ensure consistent firewood lengths.
Saw Buck: A saw buck is a frame that holds logs in place while you buck them.
Safety Gear: Helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps are essential.

Bucking Techniques: My Proven Method

Determine Firewood Length: Decide on the desired length of your firewood. Typically, 16 inches is a good length for most wood stoves.
Measure and Mark: Use a measuring tape to measure and mark the logs at the desired length.
Use a Saw Buck: Place the logs in a saw buck to hold them securely while you buck them.
Buck in Batches: Buck multiple logs at once to save time.
Avoid Cutting on the Ground: Avoid cutting logs directly on the ground, as this can dull the chain and increase the risk of kickback.
Use the Bore Cut Technique: Use the bore cut technique to prevent the bar from getting pinched.

Optimizing for Wood Type

The type of wood I’m processing significantly impacts my bucking strategy. Softer woods like pine are easier to cut and split, allowing me to process larger batches quickly. Hardwoods like oak require more precision and power.

Pine: I typically buck pine into slightly longer lengths as it tends to burn faster. I also make sure the wood is well-seasoned to reduce creosote buildup in the chimney.
- Target Moisture Content: 15-20%
- Ideal Length: 18 inches
Oak: I focus on splitting oak into smaller pieces to aid in drying. Proper seasoning is crucial for oak, as it can take up to two years to fully dry.
- Target Moisture Content: 18-25%
- Ideal Length: 16 inches

Real-World Example

I used to buck firewood one log at a time, which was incredibly time-consuming. Then, I invested in a saw buck and started bucking multiple logs at once. This simple change significantly reduced the amount of time it took me to prepare firewood.

Takeaway: Using efficient bucking techniques can save a lot of time and effort. Determine the desired firewood length, use a saw buck, buck in batches, and avoid cutting on the ground.

Pro Hack #5: Safe and Effective Wood Splitting Techniques

Splitting firewood can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be done safely and efficiently. I’ve learned that proper splitting techniques are just as important as having a good log splitter.

Why Wood Splitting Techniques Matter

Safe and effective wood splitting techniques can reduce the risk of injury and make the process much easier. It’s also important to split wood in a way that minimizes strain on your body.

Essential Wood Splitting Tools

Log Splitter: A hydraulic log splitter is the most efficient way to split firewood.
Splitting Axe: A splitting axe is a good option for smaller logs or for those who prefer a more manual approach.
Maul: A maul is a heavy axe-like tool designed for splitting larger logs.
Wedges: Wedges can be used to split particularly tough or knotty logs.
Safety Gear: Helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots are essential.

Wood Splitting Techniques: My Guide

Choose the Right Tool: Select the appropriate tool for the job. A log splitter is ideal for larger logs, while a splitting axe or maul is suitable for smaller logs.
Position Yourself Properly: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a stable stance.
Swing with Your Whole Body: When using a splitting axe or maul, swing with your whole body, using your legs and core to generate power.
Aim for the Center: Aim for the center of the log, avoiding knots or other imperfections.
Use Wedges for Tough Logs: If a log is particularly tough or knotty, use wedges to help split it.
Clear the Area: Keep the area clear of debris and other hazards.

Optimizing Splitting Based on Wood Characteristics

Different types of wood require different splitting approaches. Grain patterns, knots, and moisture content all play a role.

Straight-Grained Wood: Wood with a straight grain, like ash or maple, splits easily with a maul or axe. I often use a single, well-aimed swing to cleave these logs.
- Technique: Direct, powerful swings along the grain.
Knotty Wood: Wood with knots, like elm or some types of oak, is more challenging. I use a combination of wedges and a heavy maul to work around the knots.
- Technique: Start by splitting away from the knots, using wedges to create fracture lines.
Wet Wood: Wet or green wood is tougher to split than seasoned wood. I find that using a hydraulic log splitter makes the job much easier.
- Technique: Apply steady pressure with the log splitter, allowing the hydraulic force to overcome the wood’s resistance.

Real-World Example

I used to try to split every log with a splitting axe, which was exhausting and inefficient. Then, I invested in a log splitter, which made the process much easier and faster. I still use a splitting axe for smaller logs, but the log splitter has been a game-changer for larger pieces.

Safety Tips

Wear Safety Gear: Always wear safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from others when splitting wood.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid splitting wood near obstacles or hazards.
Take Breaks: Take breaks when you’re tired to avoid injury.

Takeaway: Safe and effective wood splitting techniques can reduce the risk of injury and make the process much easier. Choose the right tool, position yourself properly, swing with your whole body, and aim for the center.

Additional Tips for Husqvarna 120 Mark II Owners

Beyond the five pro hacks, here are a few extra tips that I’ve found helpful for maximizing the performance and lifespan of my Husqvarna 120 Mark II.

Proper Fuel and Oil Mix

The Husqvarna 120 Mark II requires a specific fuel and oil mix. Using the wrong mix can damage the engine. Always use a high-quality 2-stroke oil and mix it with gasoline at a ratio of 50:1. I prefer using Husqvarna’s pre-mixed fuel, as it ensures the correct ratio and contains additives that help to keep the engine clean.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw running smoothly. I recommend cleaning the air filter after every few hours of use, checking the spark plug regularly, and lubricating the bar and chain frequently. I also inspect the chain for damage and replace it when necessary.

Storage

When storing your chainsaw, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This prevents the fuel from gumming up the carburetor. I also clean the chainsaw thoroughly and store it in a dry place.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Chainsaw Won’t Start: Check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter. If the chainsaw still won’t start, you may need to clean the carburetor.
Chainsaw Runs Poorly: This could be due to a dirty air filter, a fouled spark plug, or a problem with the carburetor.
Chainsaw Chain Dull: Sharpen the chain regularly to maintain peak performance.

Takeaway: Proper fuel and oil mix, regular maintenance, and proper storage are essential for maximizing the performance and lifespan of your Husqvarna 120 Mark II.

Final Thoughts: The Husqvarna 120 Mark II and the Art of Wood Processing

The Husqvarna 120 Mark II, while not the most powerful chainsaw on the market, is a reliable and affordable tool for homeowners and beginners. By mastering the techniques and tips outlined in this guide, you can optimize its performance and make your wood processing endeavors more efficient and enjoyable. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Wear proper safety gear, use proper techniques, and take your time. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to process wood like a pro.