Stihl 031 AV Chainsaw Tips (5 Pro Hacks for Efficient Bucking)

Ever wrestled with a chainsaw that feels like it has a mind of its own, especially when bucking logs? I know I have! It’s frustrating, time-consuming, and frankly, a bit dangerous when your saw’s fighting you every step of the way. That’s why I’m going to share with you five pro hacks to get the most out of your Stihl 031 AV chainsaw specifically for efficient bucking.

The Stihl 031 AV is a classic, a workhorse that many of us still rely on. But like any piece of equipment, it needs to be handled with skill and understanding. These hacks aren’t just about cutting wood faster; they’re about working smarter, safer, and making the most of this iconic saw. I’m going to dig deep into the nitty-gritty details, drawing from years of personal experience in the woods, combined with up-to-date insights on wood science, tool mechanics, and efficient firewood preparation. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Your Stihl 031 AV and Bucking Basics

Before we jump into the hacks, it’s crucial to understand the Stihl 031 AV and the fundamentals of bucking. This chainsaw, produced from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s, is known for its durability and reliability. It’s a mid-range saw, powerful enough for most firewood cutting tasks but not so heavy that it becomes a burden.

Key Specs of the Stihl 031 AV:

• Engine Displacement: Around 49 cc
• Weight: Approximately 13-14 pounds (without bar and chain)
• Bar Length: Typically used with 16-20 inch bars

Knowing these specs helps you understand the saw’s capabilities and limitations. For example, while a 20-inch bar is possible, you’ll likely find the saw performs best with a 16-inch bar when bucking denser hardwoods.

Bucking Defined:

Bucking is the process of cutting a felled tree into shorter, more manageable lengths, usually for firewood or other wood products. It’s a critical step in wood processing, and efficiency here directly impacts your overall productivity.

Why Efficient Bucking Matters:

• Saves Time and Energy: Less time wrestling with logs means more time for other tasks.
• Reduces Strain: Proper techniques minimize physical exertion and the risk of injury.
• Maximizes Wood Yield: Careful bucking minimizes waste and ensures you get the most usable wood from each tree.
• Increases Safety: Efficient and controlled cuts are inherently safer than struggling with a poorly maintained or improperly used saw.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: A Quick Primer

Understanding wood is fundamental to efficient bucking. Different types of wood behave differently under the saw.

• Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods (like oak, maple, and hickory) are denser and generally require more power to cut than softwoods (like pine, fir, and spruce).
• Grain Direction: Cutting with the grain is easier than cutting against it.
• Moisture Content: Green wood (freshly cut) is heavier and more difficult to cut than seasoned wood. It also tends to bind the saw more.
• Knots: Knots are points where branches grew from the tree. They are denser and can cause the saw to bind or kickback.

Data Point: Green wood can weigh up to twice as much as seasoned wood due to its high moisture content. This extra weight not only makes it harder to handle but also significantly reduces its BTU (British Thermal Unit) output when burned as firewood.

Pro Hack #1: Sharpening and Chain Selection: The Foundation of Efficient Cutting

A dull chain is the enemy of efficient bucking. I can’t stress this enough: a sharp chain is the single most important factor in chainsaw performance.

Why Sharpening Matters:

• Reduces Cutting Effort: A sharp chain bites into the wood with minimal pressure.
• Prevents Kickback: Dull chains are more prone to grabbing and causing kickback.
• Extends Saw Life: A sharp chain puts less strain on the engine.
• Improves Cutting Accuracy: A sharp chain cuts straight and true.

Sharpening Techniques:

There are several ways to sharpen a chainsaw chain:

• Hand Filing: This is the most common method and involves using a round file and a flat file to sharpen each cutter.
  • Pros: Portable, inexpensive, allows for precise control.
  • Cons: Requires practice, can be time-consuming.
• Electric Sharpeners: These sharpeners use a grinding wheel to sharpen the cutters.
  • Pros: Fast, consistent results.
  • Cons: More expensive, can remove too much material if not used carefully.
• Chainsaw Sharpening Services: Many hardware stores and saw shops offer sharpening services.
  • Pros: Convenient, professional results.
  • Cons: Can be expensive, requires taking the chain to a shop.

My Personal Experience: I prefer hand filing because it gives me the most control. I use a Stihl 2-in-1 filing guide, which helps maintain the correct filing angle and depth. I’ve found that taking a few minutes to sharpen the chain after every tank of gas significantly improves cutting performance and reduces fatigue.

Choosing the Right Chain:

The type of chain you use can also impact bucking efficiency.

• Full Chisel Chains: These chains have square-cornered cutters that slice through wood quickly. They are best for clean wood and experienced users.
• Semi-Chisel Chains: These chains have rounded cutters that are more durable and less prone to dulling. They are a good choice for dirty or knotty wood.
• Low-Profile Chains: These chains have a smaller cutter profile that reduces kickback. They are a good choice for beginners.

For the Stihl 031 AV: I recommend using a semi-chisel chain for most bucking applications. It provides a good balance of cutting speed and durability. Make sure to match the chain pitch and gauge to your saw’s specifications.

Chain Maintenance Tips:

• Keep the chain clean: Remove sawdust and debris regularly.
• Lubricate the chain: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil.
• Check the chain tension: A properly tensioned chain will not sag or bind.
• Replace the chain when necessary: A worn-out chain will not cut efficiently and can be dangerous.

Data Point: A study by Oregon Products found that a properly sharpened chain can increase cutting efficiency by up to 20%.

Pro Hack #2: Mastering Bucking Techniques: The Art of the Cut

Knowing how to cut is just as important as having a sharp chain. Proper bucking techniques minimize binding, prevent kickback, and ensure efficient cutting.

The Importance of Proper Stance:

• Stable Footing: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart for a stable base.
• Balanced Posture: Keep your weight balanced and avoid leaning too far forward or backward.
• Firm Grip: Hold the saw firmly with both hands.

Bucking Techniques:

• Cutting on the Ground: This is the most common method for bucking logs.

  • Step 1: Determine Support Points: Identify where the log is supported and where it is unsupported.
  • Step 2: Make the First Cut: If the log is supported in the middle, make an overcut one-third of the way through the log on the top side. This prevents the log from pinching the saw.
  • Step 3: Make the Second Cut: Make an undercut two-thirds of the way through the log on the bottom side, meeting the overcut.
  • Step 4: If the log is supported on both ends, make an undercut one-third of the way through the log on the bottom side.
  • Step 5: Make the second cut as an overcut to meet the undercut.
  • Important Note: Always be aware of the potential for the log to roll or shift during cutting. Use wedges to stabilize the log if necessary.

• Cutting on a Sawbuck: A sawbuck is a wooden frame that supports the log at a comfortable height.

  • Pros: Reduces strain on your back, allows for faster cutting.
  • Cons: Requires building or purchasing a sawbuck.
  • Technique: Place the log on the sawbuck and make cuts as needed. Be sure to position the sawbuck on a stable surface.

• Cutting with a Cant Hook: A cant hook is a tool used to roll logs.

  • Pros: Allows you to rotate the log for easier access to different cutting angles.
  • Cons: Requires some skill and experience to use safely.
  • Technique: Use the cant hook to roll the log so that the cut is made on the top side. This prevents the saw from binding.

Avoiding Pinching and Binding:

• Use Wedges: Insert wedges into the cut to prevent the log from closing and pinching the saw.
• Cut Relief Cuts: Make small cuts on the opposite side of the log to relieve tension.
• Watch for Movement: Be aware of how the log is reacting to the cut and adjust your technique accordingly.

My Personal Tip: I always carry a few plastic wedges with me when bucking logs. They are lightweight, durable, and effective at preventing pinching. I also make sure to keep my saw chain sharp, as a dull chain is more likely to bind.

Case Study: I once spent an entire afternoon struggling to buck a large oak log. The log was supported in the middle, and I was trying to cut straight through it from the top. The saw kept binding, and I was getting increasingly frustrated. Finally, I remembered the importance of making an overcut first. I made a shallow overcut on the top side of the log, followed by an undercut on the bottom side. The log cut cleanly and easily, and I was able to finish the job in a fraction of the time.

Pro Hack #3: Fuel and Lubrication: Keeping Your 031 AV Running Smoothly

The Stihl 031 AV is a two-stroke engine, which means it requires a mixture of gasoline and oil to run properly. Using the correct fuel and lubrication is essential for maintaining the saw’s performance and extending its life.

Fuel Requirements:

• Gasoline: Use high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher. Avoid using gasoline that contains ethanol, as ethanol can damage the engine.
• Oil: Use a high-quality two-stroke oil specifically designed for chainsaws. Stihl recommends using their own brand of oil, but other reputable brands are also acceptable.
• Mixing Ratio: The recommended mixing ratio for the Stihl 031 AV is 50:1 (50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil). Always mix the fuel and oil thoroughly before adding it to the saw.

Lubrication:

• Bar and Chain Oil: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain. This oil reduces friction, prevents wear, and helps keep the chain cool.
• Oil Level: Check the oil level regularly and refill as needed. The oil tank should be filled every time you fill the fuel tank.
• Oil Pump: Make sure the oil pump is working properly. A malfunctioning oil pump can cause the chain to overheat and wear out prematurely.

Fuel Storage:

• Use a Fuel Can: Store fuel in a clean, approved fuel can.
• Label the Can: Clearly label the can with the type of fuel and the mixing ratio.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store the fuel can in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Dispose of Old Fuel: Dispose of old fuel properly. Do not pour it down the drain or onto the ground.

My Personal Practice: I always mix my fuel in small batches to ensure that it is fresh. I use a pre-measured mixing bottle to ensure the correct ratio. I also add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel to prevent it from going bad.

Data Point: Using the wrong fuel or oil can reduce the life of your chainsaw engine by up to 50%.

Pro Hack #4: Safety First: Protecting Yourself and Others

Chainsaw operation is inherently dangerous. Safety should always be your top priority.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing Protection: Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
• Head Protection: Wear a hard hat to protect your head from falling branches or other objects.
• Hand Protection: Wear chainsaw gloves to protect your hands from cuts and vibrations.
• Leg Protection: Wear chainsaw chaps or pants to protect your legs from cuts.
• Foot Protection: Wear sturdy boots with steel toes to protect your feet.

Safe Operating Procedures:

• Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual and understand the saw’s safety features.
• Inspect the Saw: Before each use, inspect the saw for any damage or loose parts.
• Start the Saw Safely: Start the saw on the ground or on a stable surface. Never drop-start the saw.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from other people and objects when operating the saw.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch out for obstacles, such as rocks, roots, and branches.
• Avoid Cutting Overhead: Avoid cutting branches that are above your head.
• Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
• Never Operate Under the Influence: Never operate a chainsaw if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Kickback Prevention:

• Understand Kickback: Kickback is a sudden, uncontrolled movement of the saw that can cause serious injury.
• Avoid the Kickback Zone: Be aware of the kickback zone, which is the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip.
• Maintain a Firm Grip: Hold the saw firmly with both hands.
• Cut at a Proper Angle: Avoid cutting at an angle that could cause the saw to kickback.
• Use a Reduced-Kickback Chain: Consider using a reduced-kickback chain, especially if you are a beginner.

Emergency Procedures:

• Know First Aid: Learn basic first aid techniques.
• Carry a First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.
• Have a Communication Plan: Have a plan for communicating with others in case of an emergency.
• Know Your Location: Be aware of your location and how to access emergency services.

My Personal Commitment: I never operate a chainsaw without wearing all of the required PPE. I also make sure to inspect the saw before each use and to follow all safe operating procedures. I have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of chainsaw accidents, and I am committed to doing everything I can to prevent them.

Data Point: According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are approximately 30,000 chainsaw-related injuries each year in the United States.

Pro Hack #5: Maintenance and Storage: Extending the Life of Your 031 AV

Proper maintenance and storage are essential for extending the life of your Stihl 031 AV.

Regular Maintenance:

• Clean the Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow to the engine.
• Clean the Spark Plug: Clean the spark plug to ensure proper ignition.
• Inspect the Fuel Filter: Inspect the fuel filter and replace it if necessary.
• Sharpen the Chain: Sharpen the chain regularly to maintain cutting efficiency.
• Lubricate the Bar and Chain: Lubricate the bar and chain regularly to reduce friction and prevent wear.
• Check the Chain Tension: Check the chain tension and adjust it as needed.
• Inspect the Sprocket: Inspect the sprocket for wear and replace it if necessary.
• Clean the Saw: Clean the saw after each use to remove sawdust and debris.

Storage:

• Drain the Fuel: Drain the fuel tank before storing the saw for an extended period of time.
• Remove the Chain: Remove the chain and clean it thoroughly.
• Lubricate the Bar: Lubricate the bar with bar and chain oil.
• Store in a Dry Place: Store the saw in a dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Use a Storage Case: Use a storage case to protect the saw from dust and damage.

Troubleshooting:

• Saw Won’t Start: Check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter.
• Saw Runs Poorly: Check the fuel mixture, air filter, and spark plug.
• Chain Won’t Cut: Sharpen the chain or replace it if necessary.
• Saw Overheats: Check the oil level and make sure the oil pump is working properly.

My Personal Routine: I have a regular maintenance schedule for my Stihl 031 AV. I clean the air filter and spark plug after every use. I sharpen the chain after every tank of gas. I inspect the fuel filter and sprocket every month. And I perform a complete tune-up every year. This routine has helped me keep my saw running smoothly for many years.

Data Point: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your chainsaw by up to 50%.

Beyond the Hacks: Advanced Techniques and Considerations

Once you’ve mastered the basics, there are several advanced techniques and considerations that can further improve your bucking efficiency and safety.

Felling Techniques:

While this article focuses on bucking, the way you fell a tree can significantly impact the ease and efficiency of bucking.

• Directional Felling: Felling the tree in a specific direction can make bucking easier by positioning the log in a more accessible location.
• Avoiding Obstacles: Felling the tree away from obstacles like rocks, fences, and other trees can prevent damage to the log and make bucking safer.

Wood Identification and Sorting:

Knowing the type of wood you are bucking can help you choose the appropriate cutting techniques and plan for seasoning and storage.

• Hardwood vs. Softwood: As mentioned earlier, hardwoods require more power to cut than softwoods.
• Species Identification: Identifying the species of wood can help you determine its BTU value and seasoning time.
• Sorting by Size and Type: Sorting the wood by size and type can make it easier to stack and season.

Ergonomics and Body Mechanics:

Bucking logs can be physically demanding. Proper ergonomics and body mechanics can help prevent injuries and reduce fatigue.

• Lift with Your Legs: When lifting logs, bend your knees and keep your back straight.
• Avoid Twisting: Avoid twisting your body when lifting or moving logs.
• Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to rest and stretch.
• Use Assistive Devices: Use assistive devices, such as log carriers and skidding tongs, to reduce strain.

Environmental Considerations:

Responsible wood processing includes minimizing your impact on the environment.

• Sustainable Harvesting: Harvest wood from sustainable sources.
• Minimize Waste: Minimize waste by using all parts of the tree.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Dispose of waste materials properly.
• Protect Water Sources: Protect water sources from pollution.

My Ongoing Learning: I am always learning new techniques and strategies for improving my wood processing efficiency and safety. I attend workshops, read books and articles, and talk to other experienced woodworkers. The key is to stay curious and to never stop learning.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Stihl 031 AV for Efficient Bucking

Key Takeaways:

• A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting.
• Proper bucking techniques minimize binding and prevent kickback.
• Using the correct fuel and lubrication is crucial for maintaining the saw’s performance.
• Safety should always be your top priority.
• Regular maintenance and storage extend the life of your saw.

Next Steps:

• Sharpen your chain and inspect your saw.
• Practice the bucking techniques outlined in this article.
• Review your safety procedures and make any necessary improvements.
• Develop a regular maintenance schedule for your saw.
• Continue learning and improving your wood processing skills.

Remember, efficient bucking is not just about cutting wood faster; it’s about working smarter, safer, and more sustainably. By implementing these pro hacks and continuously striving to improve your skills, you can make the most of your Stihl 031 AV and enjoy the satisfaction of processing your own wood. Now get out there and put these tips to work! You’ll be surprised at how much more efficient and enjoyable your wood processing becomes.

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