Pull-Starting a Chainsaw Safely (Proper Technique)
To start a chainsaw safely, check the saw and work area, then follow the starting steps in that model’s manual. For a cold start, place the saw on firm, level ground, engage the chain brake, and hold it as directed while pulling the starter in controlled strokes. Keep the bar clear, never drop-start, and stop if the chain moves at idle.
Starting steps vary by model, so the manual for your saw takes priority over general advice. This matters most when you are in a hurry: the wrong choke setting can flood an engine, while poor footing or a moving chain can cause an injury before you make a cut. A few checks first help you start with control.
I often see operators focus on the starter cord and overlook the saw’s controls. Start by checking those controls, your footing, and the space around you. If anything seems damaged or does not work as it should, do not start the saw.
Equipment Setup and Safety Preparation
A safe start begins before you pull the cord. Check your protective gear, the saw’s safety parts, and the work area. Use the starting method stated in your manual, since switch positions and choke steps differ among models.
Wear a properly fitted helmet, eye and hearing protection, chainsaw-protective legwear, gloves, and protective boots with good traction. Clear your footing and escape path. Keep other people outside the separation distance stated by the manufacturer, and never start or run a chainsaw in a hazardous or enclosed area.
What should I check before starting?
A pre-start check helps catch faults that can make starting or handling unsafe. Look over the saw before fueling or pulling the cord. If a safety device is missing, damaged, or unreliable, stop and arrange proper repair.
- Chain brake: Check that it engages and releases as the manual describes.
- Throttle lockout and stop switch: Confirm that each operates correctly.
- Handles and chain catcher: Look for damage or loose parts.
- Chain and bar: Check chain tension, sharpness, and visible damage.
- Caps and fluids: Confirm the fuel and chain-oil caps are secure and the tanks contain the correct fluids.
Use the fuel type and oil mix specified for your saw. A 50:1 gasoline-to-two-cycle-oil ratio is correct only when the manufacturer calls for it. Use fresh fuel and the specified oil. Never put straight gasoline in a premix two-stroke engine.
How should I secure the saw?
Secure means holding or placing the saw so it cannot shift as you pull the starter. Use a stable, level surface and keep the bar and chain clear of people, objects, and vegetation. The manual may show a ground-start method or another approved position.
For a ground start, many manuals show the operator placing one hand on the front handle and securing the rear handle with a boot. Follow the instructions for your exact saw. Do not hold the saw one-handed and pull the cord with the other; that is drop-starting and removes control during a critical moment.
Cold-Starting a Chainsaw
A cold start means starting an engine that has not been running recently or has cooled down. The exact sequence varies, but commonly involves setting the switch, using the choke, and pulling until the engine first fires. Follow your manual’s order, including any primer or decompression valve steps.
What is the correct cold-start sequence?
A controlled pull uses a firm grip and a smooth stroke. It does not mean yanking the cord to its full length. Keep the chain brake engaged as directed, and keep your body out of line with the bar.
- Place the saw on firm, level ground with the chain clear of everything.
- Engage the chain brake.
- Set the switch and choke as the manual directs. Press the primer bulb or use the decompression valve only if your model has them and the manual calls for them.
- Secure the saw using the approved method.
- Grip the starter handle and pull in controlled strokes. Do not pull the cord to its end or let the handle snap back.
- When the engine fires, use the manual’s next step. Many saws require moving the choke to a run or starting position, then pulling again.
- When the engine starts, promptly follow the manual to release fast idle and let the engine settle. Do not rev the saw with the brake engaged.
If the engine does not start after the number of pulls or sequence described in the manual, pause and check the procedure. Repeated pulls with the wrong choke setting can flood the engine. Use the manual’s flooded-engine steps rather than guessing.
Field Cutting and Landscaping Operation
Starting the engine is not the same as being ready to cut. First confirm that it idles steadily and that the chain stays still at idle. Keep the brake engaged until you are in position and ready to cut, then release it as directed by the manual.
How do I start a warm chainsaw?
A warm start is for an engine that has run recently and is still warm. It often uses a different switch or choke setting from a cold start. Check your manual instead of applying full choke by habit, since the wrong setting may make starting harder.
Secure the saw as you would for a cold start, keep the bar clear, and use controlled pulls. Once it starts, let it settle at idle. If the chain moves while the engine idles, switch off the saw and have the idle setting checked. Do not try to hold the chain still with the brake while the engine runs.
| Situation | Starting approach | Stop and check if… |
|---|---|---|
| Cold engine | Use the manual’s cold-start switch and choke steps | The saw shifts, the cord binds, or the chain contacts anything |
| Warm engine | Use the model’s warm-start setting; do not add full choke unless directed | The engine will not settle or the chain moves at idle |
| Engine fires, then stops | Follow the manual’s next-step instructions | You are unsure which choke position comes next |
| Engine seems flooded | Use the manual’s flooded-engine procedure | Fuel leaks or the saw shows damage |
Before cutting, hold the saw with both hands and stand on stable footing. Keep the bar tip clear of wood and other objects. Contact near the upper part of the bar tip can cause kickback, a rapid upward or backward movement of the saw. A working chain brake is important, but it does not replace a firm grip and safe cutting practice.
For tree work, starting a saw does not qualify you to fell trees or climb. Follow applicable ANSI Z133 work practices and, for covered logging work, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.266 requirements. Use training suited to the work.
Maintenance, Sharpening, and Tuning
Starting problems can come from more than the pull technique. A dull or damaged chain, incorrect fuel, or a control fault can affect safe operation. Check the manual before adjusting the saw; do not guess at settings or attempt to work around a failed safety device.
A chain that is dull or damaged should be corrected before cutting. Chain pitch, gauge, and drive-link count must match the bar and sprocket. For example, 3/8-inch low-profile pitch with .050-inch gauge is common, but it is not a universal fit. Use the chain and saw manuals to confirm the match.
If the chain brake, throttle lockout, stop switch, or another safety part fails its check, do not run the saw. If the engine will not idle as specified, have it serviced. Idle speed and maximum no-load RPM are model-specific. Use the manufacturer’s tachometer specifications; do not tune by sound or exceed the rated maximum.
Use chain-and-bar oil, and check oil delivery using the method in your manual. Oil type, viscosity, and pump output vary with the saw and conditions. Do not substitute an assumed flow rate or oil grade.
Shutdown, Storage, and Seasonal Care
A safe shutdown prevents the chain from continuing to move after work ends and helps prepare the saw for its next start. Use the switch and idle steps specified in the manual. Let the chain stop before setting the saw down, and allow hot parts to cool before service.
Idle the saw briefly only as the manual directs, then switch it off. Engage the chain brake for handling, and wait until the chain stops before placing the saw down. After it cools, clean debris and inspect the chain, bar, and oiling system.
Follow the manual for refueling, transport, and storage. Keep fuel away from ignition sources and use the manufacturer’s storage instructions, especially if the saw will sit for an extended period. Before the next start, repeat the safety and control checks rather than assuming the saw is ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
These quick answers cover common questions about safe starting. Your saw’s manual remains the final guide for its switch, choke, restraint, and starting steps. If your model’s procedure differs from a general answer here, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Should the chain brake be engaged when starting a chainsaw?
Engage it as directed by the saw’s manual. Keep it engaged while starting unless that manual specifies otherwise.
Can I start a chainsaw while holding it in the air?
Do not use a one-handed drop-start. Secure the saw using the manual-approved method, commonly on stable ground.
How far should I pull the starter cord?
Use controlled strokes and do not pull to the cord’s end. Let the handle return in a controlled way rather than snapping back.
Should I use full choke for a warm start?
Not unless the manual tells you to. Warm-start settings differ, and full choke may make starting harder.
What should I do if the chain moves at idle?
Switch off the saw. Do not continue using it; have the idle setting and related controls checked.
Why does my saw fire once but not keep running?
The next step may involve changing the choke or switch position. Follow the model’s start sequence rather than repeating the first step.
Can I use a 50:1 fuel mix in any chainsaw?
No. Use 50:1 only if the manufacturer specifies it. Use the stated two-cycle oil and never use straight gasoline in a premix two-stroke.
Can I start the saw if the chain brake is damaged?
No. Do not run the saw with a failed or unreliable safety device. Have it repaired before use.
When should I release the chain brake?
Keep it engaged while starting and handling the saw. Release it only when you are in position and ready to cut, following the manual.
(This article was written by one of our staff writers, David Hensley. Visit our Meet the Team page.)
