RedMax Chainsaw Tips (7 Pro Hacks For Firewood Prep)

I still remember the scent of pine and sawdust clinging to my grandfather’s flannel shirt. He was a master of the woodpile, transforming fallen trees into stacks of neatly split firewood that warmed our home through many harsh winters. His trusty RedMax chainsaw was an extension of his arm, a tool he wielded with respect and precision. It was from him that I learned the value of hard work, the satisfaction of a job well done, and the importance of proper firewood preparation. I’ve spent countless hours since then honing my skills, and I’m eager to share some pro hacks with you, all centered around the reliable performance of a RedMax chainsaw.

RedMax Chainsaw Tips: 7 Pro Hacks for Firewood Prep

Preparing firewood isn’t just about cutting wood; it’s about efficiency, safety, and maximizing the heat output of your fuel. These pro hacks, tailored for RedMax chainsaw users, will help you achieve just that.

1. Mastering the RedMax: Chainsaw Maintenance is Key

My grandfather always said, “Take care of your tools, and they’ll take care of you.” This rings especially true for chainsaws. A well-maintained RedMax chainsaw is not only safer to operate but also performs significantly better, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity.

Chain Sharpening: A dull chain is a dangerous chain. I sharpen my RedMax chain after every few tanks of fuel, or more frequently if I’m cutting dirty or knotty wood. Use a properly sized file (typically 5/32″ for most RedMax chains) and follow the manufacturer’s recommended sharpening angle. Aim for consistent, even strokes. A sharp chain will pull itself through the wood, requiring less force and reducing the risk of kickback. I personally prefer using a chainsaw sharpening guide to ensure consistent angles.
Bar Maintenance: Regularly inspect the chainsaw bar for wear and tear. Clean the bar groove with a scraper to remove sawdust and debris. Check the bar rails for burrs and file them smooth. Flip the bar periodically to promote even wear. Lubricate the bar nose sprocket (if your bar has one) with grease. A well-maintained bar reduces friction and extends the life of your chain.
Air Filter Cleaning: A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing power and increasing fuel consumption. I clean the air filter on my RedMax chainsaw after every day of use. Use compressed air to blow out the filter from the inside out. For heavily soiled filters, wash them with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow them to dry completely before reinstalling.
Spark Plug Inspection: A faulty spark plug can cause starting problems and reduced engine performance. I inspect the spark plug on my RedMax chainsaw every 50 hours of use. Clean the electrode with a wire brush and check the gap with a feeler gauge. Replace the spark plug if it is fouled, cracked, or worn.
Fuel and Oil: Use fresh, high-quality fuel mixed with the correct ratio of two-stroke oil as specified in your RedMax chainsaw’s manual. I always use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation, especially during periods of storage. Ensure the bar oil reservoir is filled with high-quality bar and chain oil to keep the chain properly lubricated.

Takeaway: Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal RedMax chainsaw performance and longevity. A few minutes spent on maintenance can save you hours of frustration and costly repairs down the line.

2. Strategic Felling Techniques for Firewood

Felling trees safely and efficiently is the first step in firewood preparation. The goal is to drop the tree in a location that minimizes damage and makes subsequent bucking easier.

Planning the Felling Path: Before making any cuts, carefully assess the tree and its surroundings. Identify the lean of the tree, the direction of the wind, and any obstacles in the potential felling path. Clear away any brush or debris that could impede your escape route.
The Hinge: The hinge is the most important part of the felling cut. It controls the direction of the fall. I create a hinge that is approximately 80% of the tree’s diameter. The hinge should be of uniform thickness and aligned with the desired felling direction.
The Felling Cut: The felling cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the face cut. I make the felling cut slightly above the bottom of the face cut, leaving a small “holding wood” to prevent the tree from falling prematurely. Once the felling cut is nearly complete, I insert wedges into the cut to help push the tree over in the desired direction.
Using Wedges: Wedges are invaluable for controlling the fall of a tree, especially when dealing with trees that are leaning in the wrong direction. I use plastic or aluminum wedges, as steel wedges can damage the chainsaw chain if accidentally contacted. Drive the wedges into the felling cut with a hammer or axe to gradually push the tree over.
The Importance of Back Cut: Always make a back cut to control the direction of the fall. This prevents the tree from kicking back towards you.

Takeaway: Proper felling techniques are essential for safety and efficiency. Always take the time to plan your cuts and use wedges to control the fall of the tree. Never underestimate the power of a falling tree.

3. Bucking Techniques: Maximizing Firewood Yield

Bucking is the process of cutting a felled tree into manageable lengths for firewood. Efficient bucking maximizes the amount of usable firewood and minimizes waste.

Choosing the Right Length: The ideal length for firewood depends on the size of your stove or fireplace. I typically cut my firewood into 16-inch lengths, which fit easily into most standard fireplaces. Use a measuring stick or tape measure to ensure consistent lengths.
Cutting Techniques: When bucking logs on the ground, I use a combination of techniques to avoid pinching the chainsaw bar. One technique is to support the log on one or more smaller logs or branches. Another technique is to make an undercut followed by an overcut.
Avoiding Pinching: Pinching occurs when the weight of the log closes the cut, trapping the chainsaw bar. This can be dangerous and can damage the chainsaw. To avoid pinching, always support the log properly and use wedges if necessary.
Limbing: Before bucking, remove any branches from the log. Use the chainsaw to cut the branches flush with the trunk. Be careful to avoid kickback when limbing.
Timber Grading: While not always applicable to firewood, understanding basic timber grading principles can help you identify higher-quality wood for other projects. Look for logs with minimal knots and straight grain.

Takeaway: Efficient bucking techniques maximize firewood yield and minimize waste. Always support the log properly to avoid pinching the chainsaw bar.

4. The Power of the RedMax: Choosing the Right Model for the Job

RedMax offers a range of chainsaws, each designed for different applications. Selecting the right model for your firewood preparation needs is crucial for efficiency and safety.

Engine Size: For occasional firewood cutting, a smaller RedMax chainsaw with an engine displacement of 40-50cc may be sufficient. For more demanding tasks, such as felling large trees or cutting large quantities of firewood, a larger chainsaw with an engine displacement of 50-70cc or more is recommended.
Bar Length: The appropriate bar length depends on the diameter of the trees you will be cutting. As a general rule, the bar length should be at least two inches longer than the diameter of the largest tree you will be felling.
Weight: Consider the weight of the chainsaw, especially if you will be using it for extended periods. A lighter chainsaw will reduce fatigue and make it easier to maneuver.
Features: Look for features such as anti-vibration systems, automatic chain oilers, and easy-start systems. These features can improve comfort, performance, and ease of use. I personally prefer models with inertia-activated chain brakes for added safety.
Example: For felling trees up to 20 inches in diameter and bucking firewood regularly, I’d recommend a RedMax model with a 50-60cc engine and an 18-20 inch bar.

Takeaway: Choosing the right RedMax chainsaw for the job is essential for efficiency, safety, and comfort. Consider engine size, bar length, weight, and features when making your selection.

5. Splitting Strategies: From Axe to Hydraulic Splitter

Splitting firewood is a necessary step to reduce the moisture content and make it easier to burn. There are several methods for splitting firewood, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The Axe: The traditional method of splitting firewood is with an axe. A splitting axe has a heavy head and a wide, wedge-shaped blade. To split firewood with an axe, place the log on a chopping block and position the axe blade on the log. Raise the axe overhead and swing it down with force, aiming to split the log in half.
The Maul: A maul is similar to an axe, but it has a heavier head and a shorter handle. Mauls are typically used for splitting larger, more difficult logs. The technique for using a maul is similar to that of an axe.
The Wedge and Sledgehammer: For particularly tough logs, a wedge and sledgehammer may be necessary. Place the wedge on the log and drive it in with the sledgehammer. Repeat as necessary until the log splits.
Hydraulic Log Splitters: Hydraulic log splitters are powered by gasoline or electricity and use hydraulic pressure to split logs. They are much faster and easier to use than axes or mauls, especially for splitting large quantities of firewood. I have a 25-ton hydraulic splitter that makes quick work of even the most stubborn logs.
Wood Species and Splitting: Some wood species split more easily than others. Softwoods like pine and fir tend to split more easily than hardwoods like oak and maple. Green wood is also easier to split than seasoned wood.

Takeaway: Choose the splitting method that is best suited for your needs and the type of wood you are splitting. Hydraulic log splitters are the most efficient option for splitting large quantities of firewood.

6. Seasoning Firewood: The Key to Efficient Burning

Seasoning firewood is the process of drying it to reduce its moisture content. Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

The Importance of Moisture Content: Green wood can have a moisture content of 50% or more. Seasoned firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less. Burning green wood wastes energy, produces more smoke, and can lead to creosote buildup in your chimney.
The Seasoning Process: To season firewood, stack it in a location that is exposed to sunlight and wind. Leave space between the logs to allow for air circulation. Cover the top of the stack to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open to allow for ventilation.
Drying Time: The amount of time it takes to season firewood depends on the species of wood and the climate. As a general rule, hardwoods should be seasoned for at least six months, and softwoods should be seasoned for at least three months. I typically season my firewood for a full year to ensure it is thoroughly dry.
Using a Moisture Meter: A moisture meter can be used to measure the moisture content of firewood. Insert the probes of the moisture meter into a freshly split piece of wood. The meter will display the moisture content as a percentage.
Stacking Techniques: Stacking firewood properly is crucial for efficient seasoning. I prefer to stack my firewood in rows, with each row oriented perpendicular to the prevailing wind direction. This maximizes air circulation and promotes faster drying.

Takeaway: Seasoning firewood is essential for efficient burning. Stack firewood in a sunny, windy location and allow it to dry for at least six months. Use a moisture meter to ensure the firewood is properly seasoned before burning.

7. Safety First: Protecting Yourself While Preparing Firewood

Preparing firewood can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Always prioritize safety when working with chainsaws, axes, and other tools.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE when preparing firewood. This includes:
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
- Gloves: Heavy-duty work gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
- Chaps: Chainsaw chaps to protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
- Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots to protect your feet from falling logs and sharp objects.
- Helmet: A helmet to protect your head from falling branches or debris.
Chainsaw Safety: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating your RedMax chainsaw. Keep both hands on the chainsaw at all times. Be aware of the risk of kickback and take steps to avoid it. Never operate a chainsaw when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Axe and Maul Safety: Use a chopping block that is stable and at a comfortable height. Keep your feet clear of the splitting area. Swing the axe or maul with controlled movements.
Hydraulic Log Splitter Safety: Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating your hydraulic log splitter. Keep your hands clear of the splitting wedge. Never operate a log splitter when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit readily available in case of an accident. Know how to use the items in the kit.
Communication: When working in a remote area, let someone know where you will be and when you expect to return. Carry a cell phone or other communication device in case of an emergency.

Takeaway: Safety should always be your top priority when preparing firewood. Wear appropriate PPE, follow safe operating procedures, and be aware of the potential hazards.

My grandfather’s legacy lives on in the warmth of the fires I build each winter. By following these pro hacks and respecting the power of your RedMax chainsaw, you too can transform raw wood into a sustainable source of heat and comfort for your home. Remember, patience, precision, and a commitment to safety are the keys to success. Now, get out there and start splitting!

RedMax Chainsaw Tips (7 Pro Hacks for Firewood Prep)