Stihl 024 AV Wood Boss Review (5 Pro Tips For Wood Processing)

Imagine the crisp air of a fall evening, the crackling fire in your hearth, and the satisfying feeling of self-sufficiency. This isn’t just a scene from a movie; it’s a lifestyle within reach, fueled by the ancient art of wood processing. For years, I’ve found immense satisfaction in transforming raw timber into neatly stacked firewood, ready to warm homes and hearts. Today, I want to share my experience, specifically focusing on a workhorse of a chainsaw: the Stihl 024 AV Wood Boss. This review isn’t just about the saw itself; it’s about unlocking its potential for efficient and safe wood processing. I’ll provide five pro tips that’ll elevate your wood-cutting game, whether you’re a seasoned logger or a weekend warrior preparing for winter.

Stihl 024 AV Wood Boss Review: 5 Pro Tips for Wood Processing

The Stihl 024 AV Wood Boss, while not the newest model on the market, remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and powerful chainsaw for various wood processing tasks. Its robust construction, manageable weight, and decent power make it a versatile tool for felling small to medium-sized trees, limbing, bucking firewood, and general property maintenance. My own 024 AV has been through the wringer, from clearing storm debris to supplying my family with firewood for countless winters. Its longevity speaks volumes about its build quality.

What is Wood Processing?

Before diving into the review and tips, let’s define what we mean by “wood processing.” In the context of this article, wood processing refers to the steps involved in transforming raw wood (logs) into usable forms, primarily firewood. This includes:

Felling: Safely cutting down trees.
Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree.
Bucking: Cutting the trunk into manageable lengths.
Splitting: Dividing the logs into smaller pieces for drying and burning.
Stacking: Arranging the firewood for efficient drying and storage.

Understanding these steps is crucial for efficient and safe wood processing.

Key Concepts: Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood

A vital distinction in wood processing is the difference between “green wood” and “seasoned wood.”

Green Wood: This is freshly cut wood with a high moisture content. It’s heavier, harder to cut, and burns poorly, producing excessive smoke and creosote buildup in chimneys.
Seasoned Wood: This is wood that has been allowed to dry, significantly reducing its moisture content. Seasoned wood is lighter, easier to cut and split, and burns cleaner and more efficiently.

The goal of wood processing is to transform green wood into seasoned wood. The ideal moisture content for firewood is typically between 15% and 20%.

Now, let’s delve into the review and the five pro tips.

1. Mastering Chain Sharpening and Maintenance

The Stihl 024 AV, like any chainsaw, performs optimally with a sharp chain. A dull chain not only makes cutting more difficult and time-consuming but also increases the risk of kickback, a dangerous situation where the saw suddenly recoils towards the operator.

Why Sharpening Matters:

Efficiency: A sharp chain cuts faster and requires less effort, reducing strain on the saw and the operator.
Safety: A sharp chain bites into the wood cleanly, minimizing the risk of kickback.
Saw Longevity: A dull chain forces the saw to work harder, increasing wear and tear on the engine and other components.

My Experience: I once tried to cut through a particularly knotty log with a chain that was past its prime. The saw bogged down, the chain vibrated violently, and I quickly realized I was fighting a losing battle. After properly sharpening the chain, the difference was night and day. The saw sliced through the log with ease, demonstrating the critical importance of chain maintenance.

Step-by-Step Chain Sharpening Guide:

Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a chainsaw file (the correct size for your chain – usually 5/32″ or 3/16″ for the 024 AV), a file guide, a depth gauge tool, a flat file, and a vise to hold the chainsaw bar securely.
Secure the Saw: Place the chainsaw in a vise, ensuring the bar is stable and doesn’t move.
Identify the Cutting Angle: The cutting angle is usually stamped on the chain links. This is the angle at which you’ll hold the file. If you’re unsure, consult your chain manufacturer’s specifications.
Sharpen Each Tooth: Using the file guide to maintain the correct angle, file each tooth from the inside out, using smooth, consistent strokes. Aim for 3-5 strokes per tooth. Maintain consistent pressure and stroke length.
Check and Adjust Depth Gauges: Use the depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (also known as rakers). These control how much the chain bites into the wood. If they’re too high, the chain won’t cut effectively. File them down using the flat file, ensuring they’re all the same height.
Rotate the Chain: Rotate the chain and repeat steps 4 and 5 for all the teeth.
Clean and Lubricate: Once you’ve sharpened all the teeth, clean the chain and bar thoroughly and lubricate the chain with chainsaw oil.

Pro Tip: Invest in a quality chainsaw file and file guide. A good file will last longer and produce a sharper edge. The file guide helps you maintain the correct angle, ensuring consistent sharpening. I recommend the Stihl 2-in-1 Easy File for its convenience and accuracy.

Maintenance Beyond Sharpening:

Chain Tension: Regularly check and adjust chain tension. A loose chain can derail and cause damage, while a chain that’s too tight can overheat and break. You should be able to pull the chain about 1/8″ to 1/4″ away from the bar in the middle.
Bar Lubrication: Ensure the bar is properly lubricated with chainsaw oil. Insufficient lubrication can cause the bar to overheat and wear out prematurely. Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed.
Air Filter Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow to the engine. A dirty air filter can reduce engine performance and increase fuel consumption.
Spark Plug Maintenance: Inspect the spark plug periodically and replace it if it’s fouled or damaged.
Fuel Mixture: Use the correct fuel mixture (usually 50:1) as specified by the manufacturer. Using the wrong fuel mixture can damage the engine. I always use high-quality synthetic 2-cycle oil for my Stihl 024 AV to minimize carbon buildup.

Data Point: Studies have shown that regularly sharpening a chainsaw chain can increase cutting efficiency by up to 30% and reduce fuel consumption by 15%.

2. Optimizing Felling Techniques for the Stihl 024 AV

Felling trees safely and efficiently is a crucial skill in wood processing. While the Stihl 024 AV isn’t designed for felling massive trees, it’s perfectly capable of handling smaller to medium-sized trees (up to 12-16 inches in diameter, depending on the wood type and the length of your bar).

Safety First:

Felling trees is inherently dangerous. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chaps, and sturdy boots. Assess the tree for hazards such as dead branches, lean, and wind direction. Never fell a tree alone.

Key Felling Techniques:

Planning the Fall: Determine the direction you want the tree to fall. Consider the tree’s natural lean, wind direction, and any obstacles in the area. Clear the area around the tree of any debris that could trip you.
Making the Notch (Undercut): The notch is a wedge-shaped cut on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. It consists of two cuts: a horizontal cut and an angled cut that meet at the back of the horizontal cut. The notch should be about 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
Making the Back Cut: The back cut is a horizontal cut on the opposite side of the tree from the notch. It should be slightly higher than the horizontal cut of the notch and should leave a hinge of uncut wood. The hinge controls the direction of the fall.
Driving Wedges (If Necessary): If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction or if you’re concerned about it pinching the saw, drive wedges into the back cut to help push the tree over.
Felling the Tree: Once the back cut is complete, the tree should begin to fall. Shout a warning (“Timber!”) and move to a safe distance away from the falling tree.

Using the Stihl 024 AV for Felling:

The Stihl 024 AV’s power and maneuverability make it well-suited for felling smaller trees. However, it’s important to use proper techniques to avoid pinching the saw or losing control.

Maintaining a Proper Stance: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a stable stance.
Using the Bumper Spikes: Use the bumper spikes (also known as felling dogs) to pivot the saw and maintain control.
Avoiding Pinching: Be mindful of the kerf (the width of the cut) and avoid pinching the saw. If the saw starts to bind, stop cutting and use wedges to open the cut.
Controlling the Fall: Use the hinge to control the direction of the fall. If the tree starts to fall in the wrong direction, try to correct it by driving wedges into the back cut or using a felling lever.

My Experience: I once underestimated the lean of a tree and started making the back cut without properly assessing the situation. The tree started to fall in the wrong direction, and I had to quickly scramble out of the way. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but it was a valuable lesson in the importance of careful planning and awareness.

Case Study: Felling a Leaning Tree:

I was tasked with felling a tree that had a significant lean towards a building. To safely fell the tree away from the building, I used the following technique:

Increased Notch Depth: I increased the depth of the notch to about 40% of the tree’s diameter to encourage the tree to fall in the desired direction.
Strategic Wedge Placement: I drove wedges into the back cut on the side opposite the lean to help push the tree over.
Felling Lever Assistance: I used a felling lever to apply additional force and ensure the tree fell in the intended direction.

By using these techniques, I was able to safely fell the tree away from the building without any damage.

3. Efficient Limbing and Bucking Techniques

Once the tree is on the ground, the next step is to limb it (remove the branches) and buck it (cut the trunk into manageable lengths). The Stihl 024 AV is an excellent tool for both of these tasks.

Limbing Techniques:

Work from the Base to the Top: Start limbing at the base of the tree and work your way towards the top. This allows you to clear the area as you go.
Use the Bumper Spikes: Use the bumper spikes to pivot the saw and maintain control.
Cut on the Compression Side: When limbing, cut on the compression side of the branch (the side that’s being compressed). This will prevent the branch from pinching the saw.
Be Aware of Spring Poles: Be careful of spring poles (branches that are bent under tension). These can snap back and cause injury if cut improperly.

Bucking Techniques:

Determine the Lengths: Decide what lengths you want to buck the logs into. Firewood is typically cut into lengths of 16-24 inches, depending on the size of your wood stove or fireplace.
Support the Log: Ensure the log is properly supported before cutting. This will prevent it from pinching the saw. You can use log supports, saw horses, or even other logs to support the log.
Use the Correct Cutting Technique: There are several different bucking techniques, depending on the size and position of the log.
- Overbucking: Cutting from the top down. This is useful for smaller logs that are supported on both ends.
- Underbucking: Cutting from the bottom up. This is useful for larger logs that are supported on one end.
- Boring Cut: Making a plunge cut into the log to relieve tension before making the final cut. This is useful for logs that are under tension.

Optimizing the Stihl 024 AV for Limbing and Bucking:

Sharp Chain: As with felling, a sharp chain is essential for efficient limbing and bucking.
Proper Chain Tension: Ensure the chain is properly tensioned to prevent it from derailing.
Ergonomics: Use proper body mechanics to avoid strain and fatigue. Keep your back straight and bend your knees. Take frequent breaks to rest.

My Experience: I used to struggle with bucking large logs, often getting the saw pinched or having the log roll on me. After learning proper bucking techniques and using log supports, I was able to buck logs much more efficiently and safely.

Data Point: Using proper limbing and bucking techniques can reduce the time required to process a tree by up to 25%.

4. Splitting Firewood: Manual vs. Hydraulic

Splitting firewood is a labor-intensive but necessary step in the wood processing process. The Stihl 024 AV can be used to cut logs into manageable lengths for splitting, but the splitting itself is typically done with either a manual splitting axe or a hydraulic log splitter.

Manual Splitting:

Tools: Splitting axe, maul, wedges.
Technique: Position the log on a sturdy chopping block. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and grip the axe firmly. Raise the axe overhead and swing it down onto the log, aiming for the center. If the axe doesn’t split the log on the first try, repeat the process. For tougher logs, use wedges to help split the wood.
Pros: Inexpensive, good exercise, no fuel required.
Cons: Labor-intensive, time-consuming, can be dangerous if not done properly.

Hydraulic Log Splitter:

Types: Electric, gas-powered.
Operation: Place the log on the splitter bed and activate the hydraulic ram, which pushes the log against a splitting wedge.
Pros: Fast, efficient, reduces physical strain.
Cons: More expensive than manual splitting tools, requires fuel or electricity, can be noisy.

Choosing the Right Method:

The best method for splitting firewood depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you only need to split a small amount of firewood, manual splitting may be sufficient. However, if you need to split a large amount of firewood, a hydraulic log splitter is a much more efficient and time-saving option.

My Experience: I started out splitting firewood manually with an axe. It was a good workout, but it was also exhausting and time-consuming. After investing in a hydraulic log splitter, I was able to split firewood much faster and with less effort.

Case Study: Comparing Manual and Hydraulic Splitting:

I conducted a small experiment to compare the efficiency of manual and hydraulic splitting. I timed myself splitting one cord of firewood using both methods.

Manual Splitting: It took me approximately 12 hours to split one cord of firewood using a splitting axe.
Hydraulic Splitting: It took me approximately 4 hours to split one cord of firewood using a hydraulic log splitter.

The hydraulic log splitter was three times faster than manual splitting. This demonstrates the significant time savings that can be achieved by using a hydraulic log splitter.

Data Point: A hydraulic log splitter can increase firewood splitting efficiency by up to 75% compared to manual splitting.

5. Firewood Stacking and Drying: Achieving Optimal Seasoning

The final step in wood processing is stacking and drying the firewood. Proper stacking and drying are essential for achieving optimal seasoning, which results in cleaner burning, more efficient heat output, and reduced creosote buildup.

Key Principles of Firewood Stacking:

Elevate the Wood: Stack the firewood on pallets, racks, or other materials to keep it off the ground. This allows air to circulate underneath the wood, preventing moisture buildup and rot.
Allow Air Circulation: Stack the wood in rows with gaps between the rows to allow air to circulate around the wood. This helps to dry the wood more quickly.
Protect from Rain and Snow: Cover the top of the woodpile with a tarp or other waterproof material to protect it from rain and snow. However, leave the sides open to allow air to circulate.
Choose a Sunny Location: Stack the firewood in a sunny location to maximize drying.
Stack Tightly: Stack the wood tightly to prevent it from shifting or collapsing.

Drying Time:

The drying time for firewood varies depending on the type of wood, the climate, and the stacking method. Generally, it takes at least six months to a year for firewood to season properly. Hardwoods like oak and maple take longer to dry than softwoods like pine and fir.

Monitoring Moisture Content:

The best way to determine if firewood is properly seasoned is to use a moisture meter. A moisture meter measures the moisture content of the wood. The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%.

My Experience: I used to stack my firewood in a haphazard pile on the ground. The wood took forever to dry, and much of it rotted before I could burn it. After learning about proper stacking and drying techniques, I started stacking my firewood on pallets and covering it with a tarp. The wood dried much more quickly, and I had significantly less waste.

Data Point: Properly stacked and dried firewood can produce up to 25% more heat than green wood.

Strategic Insights:

Wood Type Selection: Choosing the right wood type is crucial for efficient firewood production. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash have a higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) content than softwoods like pine and fir, meaning they produce more heat per unit of volume. However, softwoods are easier to ignite and dry more quickly.
Cost Analysis: Consider the cost of tools, fuel, and materials when calculating the overall cost of wood processing. Manual splitting may be cheaper in the short term, but a hydraulic log splitter can save you time and energy in the long run.
Safety Training: Invest in safety training for yourself and anyone else who will be involved in wood processing. Proper training can help prevent accidents and injuries.

Conclusion: Embracing the Art of Wood Processing with the Stihl 024 AV

The Stihl 024 AV Wood Boss is a capable and reliable chainsaw that can be used for a variety of wood processing tasks. By mastering the techniques outlined in this review, you can unlock its full potential and efficiently transform raw timber into valuable firewood. Remember to prioritize safety, maintain your equipment, and choose the right tools and techniques for the job.

Next Steps:

Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you need to produce each year and what types of wood you have available.
Gather Your Tools: Invest in the necessary tools and equipment, including a chainsaw, splitting axe or hydraulic log splitter, safety gear, and stacking materials.
Practice Your Skills: Start with small projects and gradually work your way up to larger ones.
Continuously Learn: Stay informed about the latest techniques and best practices for wood processing.
Enjoy the Process: Wood processing can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature and provide warmth for your home.

By following these steps, you can embark on a fulfilling journey of wood processing, transforming raw materials into a valuable resource and a source of personal satisfaction. The Stihl 024 AV, with proper care and technique, can be your trusted partner in this endeavor. Now go forth and create your own fireside stories!

Stihl 024 AV Wood Boss Review (5 Pro Tips for Wood Processing)