Long Bar Chainsaw Tips (West Coast Land Clearing Insights)

Let’s dive into the world of long bar chainsaws and West Coast land clearing! Here’s a quick win: By properly tensioning your long bar chainsaw chain before you even start cutting, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of throwing a chain and improve cutting efficiency. I’ll show you how!

Long Bar Chainsaw Tips: West Coast Land Clearing Insights

I’ve spent years felling timber and clearing land in the Pacific Northwest, and I’ve learned a thing or two about using long bar chainsaws. The sheer size of the trees we deal with here – towering Douglas firs, massive redwoods, and stubborn cedars – demands specialized equipment and techniques. A long bar chainsaw is often the tool of choice, but mastering it takes practice and knowledge. This guide is designed to share my experiences and insights, helping you work safely and efficiently with a long bar chainsaw in challenging land clearing scenarios.

Understanding the Long Bar Chainsaw

Why Use a Long Bar?

The primary advantage of a long bar chainsaw (typically 28 inches or more) is its ability to fell larger diameter trees in a single pass. This is crucial in the West Coast forests, where trees can easily exceed 4 feet in diameter. With a shorter bar, you’d have to make multiple cuts, which is time-consuming and potentially dangerous.

I remember one particularly stubborn redwood I had to fell. It was easily 5 feet across at the base. Without my 36-inch bar, I would have been wrestling with that tree for hours, making multiple overlapping cuts. The long bar allowed me to make a clean, controlled fell in a fraction of the time.

Types of Long Bar Chainsaws

Long bar chainsaws aren’t just about the bar length; they also require powerful engines to drive the longer chain. Here’s a breakdown of common types:

Professional-Grade Gas Chainsaws: These are the workhorses of the industry, offering the power and durability needed for continuous use. Brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo are popular choices. I personally prefer Stihl for their reliability and readily available parts in my area.
Large Electric Chainsaws: While not as common for large-scale land clearing, electric chainsaws are becoming more powerful and are suitable for smaller trees and urban environments. They offer the advantage of lower noise and emissions.
Hydraulic Chainsaws: Used in specialized applications, such as underwater logging or cutting through extremely dense wood. These are typically much heavier and require a hydraulic power source.

Essential Features to Look For

When choosing a long bar chainsaw, consider these features:

Engine Size: A larger engine (70cc or more) provides the necessary power to drive the longer chain through dense wood.
Weight: Long bar chainsaws are inherently heavier. Look for a model that you can comfortably handle for extended periods.
Anti-Vibration System: This reduces fatigue and improves control.
Chain Brake: A critical safety feature that stops the chain instantly in case of kickback.
Automatic Chain Oiler: Ensures the chain is properly lubricated, extending its life and improving cutting performance.
Side Chain Tensioner: Makes adjusting chain tension easier and safer.

Safety First: Protecting Yourself in the Woods

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Before you even think about starting your chainsaw, make sure you’re properly equipped with the following PPE:

Chainsaw Chaps: These protect your legs from accidental contact with the chain. I’ve seen too many close calls to ever skip this.
Steel-Toed Boots: Provide foot protection and stability.
Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud! Protect your hearing with earplugs or earmuffs.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield are essential to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Gloves: Improve grip and protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Helmet: Protects your head from falling branches and other hazards.

Metric: Studies show that wearing appropriate PPE can reduce chainsaw-related injuries by up to 70%.

Understanding Kickback

Kickback is one of the most dangerous hazards associated with chainsaw use. It occurs when the tip of the bar contacts a solid object, causing the saw to suddenly jump back towards the operator.

How to Prevent Kickback:

Use the Correct Cutting Techniques: Avoid using the tip of the bar.
Maintain a Firm Grip: Keep both hands firmly on the saw.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch out for hidden objects that could cause kickback.
Use a Chainsaw with Anti-Kickback Features: Some chainsaws have features like reduced-kickback bars and chains.

Maintaining a Safe Work Zone

Clear the Area: Remove any obstacles that could trip you or interfere with your work.
Establish Escape Routes: Plan a clear path of retreat in case of a falling tree.
Communicate with Others: If you’re working with a team, establish clear communication signals.
Be Aware of Weather Conditions: Wind, rain, and snow can all increase the risk of accidents.

Case Study: A logging operation in Oregon experienced a near-fatal accident when a falling tree struck a worker who was not paying attention to his surroundings. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining a safe work zone and being aware of potential hazards.

Mastering Cutting Techniques with a Long Bar

Felling Techniques

Felling a tree with a long bar chainsaw requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Assess the Tree: Evaluate the tree’s lean, size, and any potential hazards (e.g., dead branches, power lines).
Plan Your Fell: Determine the direction you want the tree to fall and clear a path for it.
Make the Notch: 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. This controls the direction of the fall.
Make the Back Cut: Cut from the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the notch. Leave a hinge of wood to control the fall.
Wedge the Cut (if necessary): If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction, use wedges to help guide its fall.
Retreat Safely: Once the tree starts to fall, move away quickly and safely.

Measurements: The notch should be cut at a 45-degree angle, and the back cut should be about 2 inches above the bottom of the notch. The hinge should be about 10% of the tree’s diameter.

Limbing and Bucking

Once the tree is on the ground, you’ll need to limb it (remove the branches) and buck it (cut it into manageable lengths).

Limbing: Start at the base of the tree and work your way up, cutting the branches close to the trunk. Be careful of spring poles (branches that are under tension).
Bucking: Cut the trunk into desired lengths, taking into account the size and capacity of your equipment (e.g., log splitter, firewood processor).

Tip: When bucking logs on a slope, always stand uphill from the log to avoid being struck if it rolls.

The Importance of Proper Chain Tension

Maintaining proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient cutting. A loose chain can derail, causing damage to the saw and potentially injuring the operator. A chain that’s too tight can overheat and break.

How to Check Chain Tension:

Wear gloves.
Loosen the bar nuts slightly.
Use the chain tensioning screw to adjust the chain until it sags slightly on the bottom of the bar.
Tighten the bar nuts securely.
Pull the chain around the bar by hand. It should move freely without binding.

Frequency: Check chain tension before each use and periodically during use.

Long Bar Chainsaw Maintenance: Keeping Your Saw Running Smoothly

Regular Cleaning

A clean chainsaw is a happy chainsaw. Sawdust and debris can accumulate and cause overheating, reduced performance, and premature wear.

Cleaning Schedule:

Daily: Clean the bar, chain, and air filter.
Weekly: Clean the spark plug and check the fuel filter.
Monthly: Inspect the clutch and sprocket.

Tools: Use a brush, compressed air, and a solvent to remove debris.

Sharpening Your Chain

A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting. A dull chain requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback and fatigue.

Sharpening Frequency: Sharpen the chain every time you refuel, or more often if you notice it’s not cutting as well.

Tools: You’ll need a chainsaw file, a file guide, and a depth gauge tool.

Technique:

Secure the saw in a vise.
Use the file guide to maintain the correct filing angle.
File each cutter evenly, removing a small amount of metal with each stroke.
Use the depth gauge tool to adjust the depth gauges.

Metric: A properly sharpened chain can increase cutting speed by up to 30%.

Bar and Chain Lubrication

Proper lubrication is critical for extending the life of your bar and chain. Use a high-quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws.

Lubrication Schedule:

Check Oil Level Before Each Use: Refill as needed.
Monitor Oil Flow: Make sure the oiler is functioning properly.
Clean the Oiler Ports: Prevent clogging.

Tip: In cold weather, use a thinner bar and chain oil to improve flow.

Fuel and Oil Mixtures

Using the correct fuel and oil mixture is essential for engine performance and longevity. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific chainsaw model.

Common Ratios:

50:1: 50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil
40:1: 40 parts gasoline to 1 part oil

Tip: Use fresh, high-octane gasoline and a high-quality two-stroke oil.

Choosing the Right Bar and Chain for the Job

Bar Length Considerations

The appropriate bar length depends on the size of the trees you’ll be felling and the type of work you’ll be doing.

Smaller Trees (up to 12 inches): 16-20 inch bar
Medium Trees (12-24 inches): 20-28 inch bar
Large Trees (24 inches and up): 28-inch bar and up

Tip: It’s better to have a bar that’s slightly too long than one that’s too short.

Chain Types and Their Applications

Different chain types are designed for different cutting conditions.

Full Chisel: Aggressive cutting, best for clean wood.
Semi-Chisel: More durable, better for dirty or frozen wood.
Low-Profile: Reduced kickback, suitable for beginners.

Recommendation: For West Coast land clearing, I generally recommend a semi-chisel chain for its durability and versatility.

Matching the Chain to the Sprocket

The chain must be compatible with the sprocket on your chainsaw. Check the pitch and gauge of the chain and sprocket to ensure they match.

Pitch: The distance between three rivets on the chain, divided by two. Common pitches are 3/8 inch and .325 inch.

Gauge: The thickness of the drive links on the chain. Common gauges are .050 inch and .058 inch.

Troubleshooting Common Long Bar Chainsaw Problems

Chainsaw Won’t Start

Check the Fuel: Make sure the fuel tank is full and the fuel is fresh.
Check the Spark Plug: Clean or replace the spark plug.
Check the Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter.
Check the Carburetor: If the carburetor is clogged, you may need to clean or rebuild it.

Chainsaw Runs Poorly

Check the Fuel Mixture: Make sure you’re using the correct fuel and oil mixture.
Check the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the engine to run poorly.
Check the Spark Plug: A fouled spark plug can cause misfires.
Adjust the Carburetor: The carburetor may need to be adjusted to optimize fuel and air mixture.

Chainsaw Chain Keeps Coming Off

Check Chain Tension: Make sure the chain is properly tensioned.
Check Bar and Chain for Damage: Inspect the bar and chain for wear or damage.
Check Sprocket: A worn sprocket can cause the chain to derail.

Chainsaw Overheats

Check Chain Tension: A chain that’s too tight can cause the saw to overheat.
Check Bar and Chain Lubrication: Insufficient lubrication can cause friction and overheating.
Check Cooling Fins: Make sure the cooling fins on the engine are clean and unobstructed.

Advanced Techniques for West Coast Land Clearing

Working with Leaners

Leaners are trees that are leaning significantly in one direction. Felling leaners can be challenging and dangerous.

Techniques:

Use Wedges: Wedges can help guide the tree’s fall in the desired direction.
Use a Pulling System: A pulling system can be used to pull the tree in the desired direction.
Make a Precision Cut: A precision cut can help to control the tree’s fall.

Dealing with Spring Poles

Spring poles are branches that are under tension. Cutting spring poles can be dangerous, as they can snap back and cause injury.

Techniques:

Cut from the Outside In: Cut the branch gradually from the outside in, releasing the tension slowly.
Use a Rope or Chain: Use a rope or chain to secure the branch before cutting it.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Make sure you have a clear path of retreat in case the branch snaps back.

Felling Large Diameter Trees

Felling trees with diameters exceeding the length of your bar requires specialized techniques.

Techniques:

Boring Cut: A boring cut involves inserting the tip of the bar into the tree to create a pocket. This allows you to make a cut that’s deeper than the bar length.
Multiple Cuts: Make multiple overlapping cuts to fell the tree.
Use a Felling Lever: A felling lever can help to push the tree over.

Firewood Preparation: From Log to Hearth

Choosing the Right Wood

The best firewood is dense, seasoned hardwood.

Popular Choices:

Oak: Burns long and hot.
Maple: Burns well and produces a good amount of heat.
Ash: Easy to split and burns cleanly.
Birch: Burns quickly and produces a bright flame.

Avoid: Softwoods like pine and fir, as they burn quickly and produce a lot of smoke.

Splitting Techniques

Splitting wood can be physically demanding, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be made easier.

Hand Splitting: Use a splitting axe or maul to split the wood by hand.
Hydraulic Log Splitter: A hydraulic log splitter can make splitting wood much easier and faster.

Tip: Split wood when it’s green (freshly cut) for easier splitting.

Seasoning Firewood

Seasoning firewood is essential for reducing its moisture content and improving its burning efficiency.

Process:

Split the Wood: Splitting increases the surface area, allowing the wood to dry more quickly.
Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, in a sunny and well-ventilated location.
Cover the Wood: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow.
Allow to Season: Allow the wood to season for at least six months, or preferably a year.

Metric: Properly seasoned firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less.

Storing Firewood

Store firewood in a dry, well-ventilated location to prevent rot and mold.

Storage Options:

Wood Shed: A wood shed provides the best protection from the elements.
Tarp: A tarp can be used to cover a stack of firewood.
Elevated Platform: An elevated platform keeps the wood off the ground and improves air circulation.

The Future of Land Clearing and Wood Processing

Emerging Technologies

The land clearing and wood processing industries are constantly evolving. New technologies are being developed to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Robotics: Robots are being used to automate tasks such as felling trees and processing logs.
Drones: Drones are being used to survey land and monitor logging operations.
Electric Chainsaws: Electric chainsaws are becoming more powerful and are a viable alternative to gas-powered chainsaws in some applications.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainable logging and wood processing practices are becoming increasingly important.

Selective Logging: Selective logging involves harvesting only mature trees, leaving the younger trees to grow.
Reforestation: Reforestation involves planting new trees to replace those that have been harvested.
Waste Reduction: Waste reduction involves minimizing the amount of waste generated during logging and wood processing.

Conclusion: Long Bar Chainsaw Mastery

Using a long bar chainsaw for West Coast land clearing is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By understanding the equipment, mastering the techniques, and prioritizing safety, you can efficiently and effectively fell large trees and prepare firewood. Remember to always wear appropriate PPE, maintain your chainsaw properly, and be aware of your surroundings. The insights I’ve shared here are born from years of experience battling the giants of the Pacific Northwest. Use them wisely, stay safe, and happy cutting!