Partner Saws (5 Insider Tips For Firewood Pros)

Having successfully processed and sold over 500 cords of firewood last year, I’ve learned a thing or two about maximizing efficiency and safety in the wood yard. One tool that’s been a constant companion is the “partner saw” – a term that often refers to a two-person crosscut saw, but increasingly encompasses large, powerful chainsaws designed for felling massive trees. Today, I’m sharing my top 5 insider tips for using these saws, whether you’re a seasoned firewood pro or just starting out.

Partner Saws: 5 Insider Tips for Firewood Pros

Partner saws, in all their forms, represent a significant investment and a commitment to handling large-diameter wood. Whether you’re using a vintage two-person crosscut or a modern, high-powered chainsaw, these tips will help you work smarter, safer, and more efficiently.

1. Mastering the Two-Person Crosscut Saw: A Symphony of Teamwork

While chainsaws dominate modern logging, the two-person crosscut saw retains a certain romantic appeal and remains a viable option, especially in situations where noise restrictions or environmental concerns are paramount. My grandfather, a logger in the Pacific Northwest, swore by his. He always said, “A good crosscut team is like a well-oiled machine – smooth, efficient, and needing only lunch for fuel.”

Understanding the Saw:

Tooth Design: Crosscut saws have specialized teeth designed to slice wood fibers. Different patterns exist for softwood and hardwood.
Rakers: These clear the sawdust from the cut, preventing binding.
Handles: Properly sized and shaped handles are crucial for comfort and control.

The Art of the Cut:

Synchronization is Key: The most important aspect is maintaining a rhythmic, synchronized pull-push motion. This minimizes effort and maximizes cutting efficiency.
Communication is Essential: Constant communication between partners ensures smooth operation and prevents accidents. Use clear signals for starting, stopping, and adjusting the cut.
Maintaining the Saw: Sharpening and setting the teeth are critical. A dull saw requires significantly more effort and increases the risk of injury.
Wedging: As the cut deepens, use wedges to prevent the saw from binding.

My Experience:

I once tried to fell a large oak with a crosscut saw solo – a foolish endeavor. The saw quickly bound, and I spent more time wrestling with it than actually cutting. It was a harsh lesson in the importance of teamwork and proper technique.

Actionable Tip: Practice with a smaller log before tackling a large tree. Focus on developing a smooth, synchronized rhythm with your partner.

Key Takeaway: Two-person crosscut saws are effective tools, but they demand teamwork, communication, and proper maintenance.

2. You need a saw with sufficient power, bar length, and durability to handle the demands of felling and bucking massive trees.

Choosing the Right Chainsaw:

Engine Size: Look for chainsaws with engine displacements of 70cc or higher. These saws provide the necessary power to cut through thick wood without bogging down.
Bar Length: The bar length should be at least 2 inches longer than the diameter of the wood you’ll be cutting. This ensures that you can make clean, efficient cuts without having to “pinch” the bar.
Chain Type: Full chisel chains are aggressive and efficient for felling, while semi-chisel chains are more durable and better suited for dirty wood.
Weight: Consider the weight of the saw, especially if you’ll be using it for extended periods. A lighter saw will reduce fatigue and improve maneuverability.
Durability: Invest in a chainsaw from a reputable brand known for its durability and reliability. Look for features like magnesium housings and forged crankshafts.

Data Point: In my experience, a 90cc chainsaw with a 36-inch bar can fell a 48-inch diameter oak tree in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the wood density and the sharpness of the chain.

Real-World Example: A local logging company switched from using 70cc chainsaws to 90cc chainsaws for felling large spruce trees. They reported a 25% increase in productivity and a significant reduction in chainsaw maintenance costs.

Actionable Tip: Research different chainsaw models and read reviews from experienced users before making a purchase. Consider renting a chainsaw to test it out before committing to a purchase.

Key Takeaway: Selecting the right chainsaw is crucial for safety, efficiency, and productivity when working with large-diameter wood.

3. Felling Techniques for Massive Trees: Safety First

Felling large trees is inherently dangerous. Proper felling techniques are essential for preventing accidents and ensuring that the tree falls in the desired direction.

Pre-Felling Assessment:

Lean: Determine the natural lean of the tree.
Wind: Assess the wind direction and speed.
Obstacles: Identify any obstacles in the tree’s path, such as power lines, buildings, or other trees.
Escape Routes: Plan two escape routes that are at 45-degree angles to the anticipated direction of fall.

Felling Cuts:

Notch: Cut a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be approximately 20% of the tree’s diameter.
Hinge: Leave a hinge of uncut wood between the notch and the back cut. The hinge controls the direction of the fall.
Back Cut: Make the back cut slightly above the bottom of the notch.
Felling Wedges: Insert felling wedges into the back cut to help push the tree over.

Safety Precautions:

Wear appropriate safety gear: This includes a hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Maintain a safe distance: Keep all bystanders at least two tree lengths away from the felling area.
Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for falling branches and other hazards.
Never fell a tree in high winds: High winds can make it difficult to control the direction of the fall.

Original Insight: I’ve found that using a plumb bob to accurately determine the tree’s lean can significantly improve felling accuracy, especially in dense forests where visual assessment can be challenging.

Actionable Tip: Take a felling course from a certified arborist or logging professional. Practice felling techniques on smaller trees before tackling larger ones.

Key Takeaway: Felling large trees requires careful planning, precise cutting techniques, and a strong emphasis on safety.

4. Bucking and Splitting Large Rounds: Taming the Beast

Once a large tree is felled, the next step is to buck it into manageable rounds and split them into firewood. This can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be made more efficient and less strenuous.

Bucking Techniques:

Support the Log: Use logs or cribbing to support the log and prevent it from pinching the chainsaw bar.
Cut from the Top: Cut from the top of the log, using the log’s weight to help open the cut.
Avoid Cutting into the Ground: Keep the chainsaw bar out of the dirt to prevent dulling the chain.

Splitting Techniques:

Hydraulic Log Splitter: A hydraulic log splitter is the most efficient way to split large rounds. Choose a splitter with sufficient tonnage to handle the diameter and density of the wood you’re splitting.
Manual Splitting: If you don’t have access to a log splitter, you can split rounds manually using a splitting maul and wedges.
Splitting Wedges: Use splitting wedges to help split particularly tough or knotty rounds.

Tool List for Bucking and Splitting:

Chainsaw
Log Splitter (hydraulic or manual)
Splitting Maul
Splitting Wedges
Sledgehammer
Cant Hook or Peavey
Measuring Tape
Safety Glasses
Gloves

Case Study: A firewood producer in Maine increased their splitting productivity by 40% by switching from manual splitting to a hydraulic log splitter. They also reported a significant reduction in worker fatigue and injuries.

Actionable Tip: Invest in a high-quality hydraulic log splitter if you plan on processing a large volume of firewood. Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries.

Key Takeaway: Bucking and splitting large rounds requires the right tools, proper techniques, and a focus on safety to maximize efficiency and minimize physical strain.

5. Chainsaw Maintenance and Sharpening: Keeping Your Saw in Top Condition

A well-maintained chainsaw is a safe and efficient chainsaw. Regular maintenance and sharpening are essential for keeping your saw in top condition and preventing costly repairs.

Daily Maintenance:

Check the chain tension: The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.
Check the bar oil level: Keep the bar oil reservoir full to lubricate the chain and bar.
Clean the air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance.
Inspect the chain for damage: Look for broken or missing teeth.

Weekly Maintenance:

Sharpen the chain: A sharp chain will cut more efficiently and reduce the risk of kickback.
Clean the spark plug: A dirty spark plug can cause the engine to misfire.
Check the fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow and reduce engine performance.

Monthly Maintenance:

Inspect the bar for wear: Look for grooves or burrs on the bar rails.
Grease the bar sprocket: The bar sprocket needs to be greased regularly to prevent wear.
Check the anti-vibration mounts: Worn anti-vibration mounts can increase fatigue and the risk of vibration-related injuries.

Chain Sharpening:

Use a chainsaw file: A chainsaw file is specifically designed for sharpening chainsaw chains.
Maintain the correct filing angle: The correct filing angle will vary depending on the chain type.
File each tooth evenly: File each tooth to the same length and angle.

Metric: A chainsaw chain should be sharpened every 2-3 hours of use, depending on the type of wood being cut.

My Experience: I once neglected to sharpen my chainsaw chain for an entire day of felling. By the end of the day, the saw was cutting so slowly that I was exhausted and frustrated. It was a valuable lesson in the importance of regular chain sharpening.

Actionable Tip: Invest in a chainsaw sharpening kit and learn how to sharpen your chain properly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.

Key Takeaway: Regular chainsaw maintenance and sharpening are essential for safety, efficiency, and longevity.

By following these 5 insider tips, you can master the art of using partner saws, whether you’re wielding a vintage crosscut or a modern chainsaw. Remember to prioritize safety, invest in the right tools, and practice proper techniques. With a little knowledge and effort, you can efficiently process large-diameter wood and produce high-quality firewood.

Partner Saws (5 Insider Tips for Firewood Pros)