Stihl Farm Boss 20 Inch Bar Guide (5 Pro Tips For Best Cuts)

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we’re about to dive headfirst into the thrilling world of chainsaw mastery! I’m talking about taming the Stihl Farm Boss with a 20-inch bar – a true workhorse that can make you feel like a lumberjack god… or a frustrated weekend warrior battling a stubborn oak. Trust me, I’ve been both. I’ve wrestled logs bigger than my first car and spent hours cursing a dull chain. So, let’s skip the fluff and get straight to the five pro tips that will transform your cuts from ragged to righteous. This isn’t just about sawing wood; it’s about efficiency, safety, and making your life a whole lot easier.

Taming the Beast: Stihl Farm Boss 20 Inch Bar – 5 Pro Tips for Best Cuts

The Stihl Farm Boss, with its 20-inch bar, is a sweet spot for many. It’s powerful enough for felling decent-sized trees, yet manageable enough for bucking and limbing. This guide is designed to help you, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, get the most out of this versatile machine. We’ll cover everything from chain maintenance to felling techniques, all with the goal of making your wood processing safer, more efficient, and frankly, more enjoyable.

Why This Matters: The Importance of Proper Chainsaw Technique

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s talk about why proper chainsaw technique is so crucial. It’s not just about making nice, straight cuts. It’s about:

Safety: Chainsaws are inherently dangerous. Proper technique reduces the risk of kickback, pinched bars, and other nasty accidents.
Efficiency: A well-maintained saw and proper cutting techniques will save you time, energy, and fuel. You’ll get more done with less effort.
Saw Longevity: Abusing your chainsaw with poor technique will shorten its lifespan and lead to costly repairs.
Wood Quality: Clean, precise cuts minimize waste and maximize the value of your timber.

Think of it this way: a chainsaw is like a finely tuned instrument. Treat it with respect, learn its nuances, and it will reward you with years of reliable service. Abuse it, and you’ll be singing the blues while your wallet weeps.

Key Terms and Concepts

Let’s define some essential terms to ensure we’re all on the same page:

Bucking: Cutting a felled tree into manageable lengths.
Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree.
Felling: The act of cutting down a tree.
Kickback: A sudden and dangerous upward or backward movement of the chainsaw caused by the tip of the bar contacting an object.
Kerf: The width of the cut made by the chainsaw chain.
Green Wood: Freshly cut wood with a high moisture content.
Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been dried to reduce its moisture content, making it suitable for burning or construction. Typically, seasoning takes 6-12 months depending on the climate and wood type.
Bar Oil: A special oil designed to lubricate the chainsaw bar and chain.
Two-Cycle Oil: Oil specifically formulated for two-stroke engines, like the Stihl Farm Boss. It needs to be mixed with gasoline.
Stihl Farm Boss (MS 271): A popular mid-range chainsaw known for its power and reliability.
20-inch Bar: Refers to the length of the guide bar on the chainsaw. This dictates the maximum diameter of wood you can safely cut.
Chain Pitch: The distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain divided by two. Common pitches are .325″, 3/8″, and .404″.
Chain Gauge: The thickness of the drive links on the chain that fit into the groove of the guide bar. Common gauges are .050″, .058″, and .063″.

Pro Tip #1: Master the Art of Chain Sharpening

A dull chain is your worst enemy. It’s slow, inefficient, and increases the risk of kickback. I remember one time, I was trying to buck a particularly gnarly oak log with a chain that was so dull, it was basically just rubbing the wood. It took me three times longer than it should have, and I ended up exhausted and frustrated. Learn from my mistakes!

Why Sharpening Matters

Faster Cutting: A sharp chain bites into the wood effortlessly, reducing cutting time and strain on the saw.
Safer Operation: A sharp chain is less likely to kick back.
Less Fuel Consumption: A sharp chain requires less power to cut, saving you fuel.
Reduced Saw Wear: A dull chain puts unnecessary stress on the saw’s engine and components.

Sharpening Tools

You have a few options for sharpening your chain:

Round File and Guide: This is the most common and affordable method. You’ll need a round file that matches the pitch of your chain and a file guide to ensure the correct sharpening angle. I prefer this method because it gives me the most control.
Electric Chain Sharpener: These sharpeners are faster and more precise than hand filing, but they’re also more expensive.
Professional Sharpening: You can take your chain to a professional sharpening service. This is a good option if you’re not comfortable sharpening it yourself or if your chain is severely damaged.

Step-by-Step Sharpening Guide (Using a Round File and Guide)

Secure the Chain: Place the chainsaw in a vise or clamp it to a stable surface. Make sure the chain is secure and won’t move while you’re sharpening.
Identify the Correct File Size: Check your chainsaw’s manual or the chain packaging to determine the correct file size for your chain pitch. For most Stihl Farm Boss chains, a 5/32″ or 3/16″ round file will work.
Set the Sharpening Angle: Most file guides have markings for the correct sharpening angle. Typically, this is around 30 degrees. Align the file guide with the chain and the depth gauge (the small metal piece in front of each cutter).
Sharpen Each Cutter: Using smooth, even strokes, file each cutter from the inside out. Apply light pressure and follow the contour of the cutter. Maintain the correct angle and depth. I usually aim for 3-5 strokes per cutter.
Check for Consistency: After sharpening a few cutters, check your work. Are the cutters all the same length and shape? Are they sharp?
Lower the Depth Gauges: After sharpening the cutters, you’ll need to lower the depth gauges. These control how much the cutter bites into the wood. Use a flat file and a depth gauge tool to file them down to the correct height. Consult your chainsaw’s manual for the recommended depth gauge setting. Typically, it’s around .025″.
Repeat for All Cutters: Repeat steps 4-6 for all the cutters on the chain. It’s important to sharpen each cutter equally to ensure smooth and even cutting.
Test the Chain: After sharpening, test the chain on a piece of wood. It should cut smoothly and efficiently. If it’s still dull, repeat the sharpening process.

Pro Tip: Keeping Your Chain Sharp Longer

Avoid Cutting Dirty Wood: Dirt and grit will quickly dull your chain. Clean off any dirt or debris from the wood before cutting.
Don’t Cut into the Ground: Avoid letting the chain contact the ground. Even a brief touch can dull the chain.
Use the Correct Bar Oil: Proper lubrication is essential for keeping your chain sharp and preventing wear.
Sharpen Regularly: Don’t wait until your chain is completely dull to sharpen it. Sharpen it frequently to maintain its cutting performance. I usually sharpen my chain after every tank of gas.

Pro Tip #2: Mastering Felling Techniques for Safety and Efficiency

Felling a tree is a serious undertaking. It requires careful planning, proper technique, and a healthy dose of respect for the power of nature. I’ve seen too many accidents caused by carelessness and inexperience. Don’t become a statistic.

Planning the Fell

Before you even start your chainsaw, take the time to assess the situation. Consider the following factors:

Tree Lean: Which way is the tree naturally leaning? This will influence the direction it will fall.
Wind Direction: Wind can significantly affect the tree’s trajectory. Avoid felling trees in high winds.
Obstacles: Are there any obstacles in the tree’s path, such as power lines, buildings, or other trees?
Escape Route: Plan a clear escape route away from the falling tree. This route should be at a 45-degree angle to the intended direction of fall.
Tree Species: Different species have different felling characteristics. For example, hardwoods tend to be more brittle and unpredictable than softwoods.
Tree Size: A larger tree requires more planning and caution than a smaller one.

Felling Tools

In addition to your chainsaw, you may need the following felling tools:

Felling Axe: Used to drive wedges and help direct the fall of the tree.
Felling Wedges: Plastic or metal wedges used to prevent the tree from pinching the saw bar and to help direct the fall. I always carry a few wedges with me.
Peavey or Cant Hook: Used to roll and position logs.
Measuring Tape: Used to measure the tree’s diameter and height.
Clinometer: Used to measure the tree’s lean angle.

The Felling Cut Sequence

The standard felling cut sequence consists of three cuts:

The Notch (or Face Cut): This cut determines the direction of fall. It consists of two cuts that form a wedge-shaped notch on the side of the tree facing the intended direction of fall. The notch should be about 1/3 of the tree’s diameter. The angle of the notch should be around 45 degrees.
The Back Cut: This cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the notch. It should be slightly higher than the bottom of the notch. Leave a hinge of uncut wood between the back cut and the notch. This hinge will help control the fall of the tree.
The Felling Cut (or Hinge Cut): This is the final cut that severs the hinge and allows the tree to fall. If the tree doesn’t fall on its own, use felling wedges or a felling axe to help push it over.

Step-by-Step Felling Guide

Clear the Area: Clear any brush or debris from around the base of the tree.
Plan Your Escape Route: Make sure your escape route is clear and unobstructed.
Make the Notch: Carefully make the notch, ensuring the correct angle and depth.
Make the Back Cut: Make the back cut, leaving a hinge of uncut wood.
Insert Felling Wedges: If necessary, insert felling wedges into the back cut to prevent the tree from pinching the saw bar and to help direct the fall.
Make the Felling Cut: Make the felling cut, severing the hinge and allowing the tree to fall.
Retreat to Safety: Immediately retreat to your planned escape route as the tree falls.
Observe the Fall: Watch the tree as it falls to ensure it falls in the intended direction.

Pro Tips for Safe Felling

Never Fell a Tree Alone: Always have someone with you to help and to call for help in case of an emergency.
Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of any potential hazards.
Don’t Fell Trees in High Winds: Wind can make felling unpredictable and dangerous.
Use Felling Wedges: Felling wedges are essential for controlling the fall of the tree and preventing the saw bar from being pinched.
Never Turn Your Back on a Falling Tree: Always watch the tree as it falls and be prepared to retreat to safety.
Practice Makes Perfect: Practice felling techniques on smaller trees before attempting to fell larger ones.

Pro Tip #3: Mastering Bucking Techniques for Efficiency and Safety

Once you’ve felled a tree, the next step is to buck it into manageable lengths. Bucking can be just as dangerous as felling, so it’s important to use proper techniques.

Understanding Bucking Techniques

There are several different bucking techniques, each suited for different situations. Here are a few of the most common:

Bucking on the Ground: This is the simplest technique, but it can be dangerous if the log is unstable.
Bucking with a Support: This technique involves using a log or other object to support the log being bucked. This is a safer and more efficient method than bucking on the ground.
Bucking with a Sawbuck: A sawbuck is a wooden frame that holds the log in place while you’re bucking it. This is the safest and most efficient method for bucking logs.
Free Bucking: This technique involves cutting a log that is suspended between two supports. This is a more advanced technique that requires careful planning and execution.

Step-by-Step Bucking Guide (Using a Sawbuck)

Set Up the Sawbuck: Place the sawbuck on a stable surface.
Position the Log: Place the log in the sawbuck, ensuring it’s securely supported.
Plan Your Cuts: Determine the desired length of each section of the log.
Make the Cuts: Using smooth, even strokes, cut through the log at the marked locations.
Remove the Sections: Remove the cut sections of the log from the sawbuck.

Pro Tips for Safe and Efficient Bucking

Always Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Use a Sawbuck: A sawbuck is the safest and most efficient way to buck logs.
Avoid Pinching the Saw Bar: Be aware of the forces acting on the log and avoid pinching the saw bar. Use wedges or other supports to prevent pinching.
Use Proper Body Mechanics: Lift with your legs, not your back. Avoid twisting and bending.
Take Breaks: Bucking logs can be physically demanding. Take breaks to avoid fatigue.

Case Study: Optimizing Bucking for Firewood Production

I once worked on a project where we needed to produce a large quantity of firewood. We initially started bucking the logs on the ground, but we quickly realized that this was inefficient and dangerous. We switched to using a sawbuck, and our production rate increased dramatically. We also found that using a log splitter to split the firewood made the process even more efficient. By optimizing our bucking and splitting techniques, we were able to produce a large quantity of firewood in a short amount of time.

Pro Tip #4: Chain and Bar Maintenance: The Key to Longevity

Your Stihl Farm Boss is a precision machine, and like any machine, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Neglecting maintenance will shorten its lifespan and lead to costly repairs.

Chain Maintenance

Sharpening: As we discussed earlier, a sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.
Cleaning: Keep the chain clean by removing any dirt, debris, or pitch.
Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the chain with bar oil to reduce friction and wear.
Tensioning: Check the chain tension regularly and adjust it as needed. A loose chain can jump off the bar, while a tight chain can overheat and wear out prematurely. The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.

Bar Maintenance

Cleaning: Keep the bar clean by removing any dirt, debris, or pitch.
Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the bar with bar oil.
Filing: Check the bar for burrs or damage and file them down as needed.
Groove Cleaning: Clean the bar groove regularly to ensure proper chain lubrication. Use a bar groove cleaner or a small screwdriver to remove any debris.
Bar Rotation: Rotate the bar periodically to even out wear.

Step-by-Step Chain and Bar Maintenance Guide

Turn Off the Chainsaw: Always turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.
Clean the Chain and Bar: Use a brush or rag to remove any dirt, debris, or pitch from the chain and bar.
Sharpen the Chain: Sharpen the chain as needed.
Lubricate the Chain and Bar: Fill the bar oil reservoir with bar oil.
Check the Chain Tension: Check the chain tension and adjust it as needed.
Clean the Bar Groove: Clean the bar groove to ensure proper chain lubrication.
Check the Bar for Damage: Check the bar for burrs or damage and file them down as needed.
Rotate the Bar: Rotate the bar to even out wear.
Reassemble the Chainsaw: Reassemble the chainsaw and reconnect the spark plug wire.

Pro Tips for Chain and Bar Maintenance

Use High-Quality Bar Oil: Use a high-quality bar oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws.
Clean the Chain and Bar Regularly: Clean the chain and bar after each use.
Sharpen the Chain Frequently: Sharpen the chain after every tank of gas or as needed.
Check the Chain Tension Regularly: Check the chain tension before each use.
Replace the Chain and Bar When Worn: Replace the chain and bar when they are worn or damaged.

Pro Tip #5: Wood Selection and Preparation: Maximizing Efficiency and Value

The type of wood you’re cutting and how you prepare it can significantly impact your chainsaw’s performance and the value of your finished product. Whether you’re processing firewood or milling lumber, understanding wood properties is crucial.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood

Green Wood: Freshly cut wood has a high moisture content (often 50% or higher). It’s heavier, harder to cut, and more prone to warping and cracking as it dries. However, it’s easier to split when green.
Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been dried to reduce its moisture content (typically below 20%) is lighter, easier to cut, and less prone to warping. Seasoned wood burns more efficiently in a fireplace or stove.

Wood Species and Their Properties

Different wood species have different properties that affect their suitability for various purposes. Here are a few examples:

Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Ash): These woods are dense, strong, and burn hot and long. They are excellent for firewood but can be harder to split and cut when green.
Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Spruce): These woods are lighter, easier to cut, and dry quickly. They are good for kindling and construction lumber but burn faster than hardwoods.

Preparing Wood for Different Purposes

Firewood: For firewood, you want to split the wood into manageable sizes and allow it to season for 6-12 months. This reduces the moisture content and makes it burn more efficiently.
Lumber: For lumber, you need to mill the logs into boards and allow them to dry properly to prevent warping and cracking. This often involves air-drying or kiln-drying.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Firewood

Fell the Tree: Fell the tree using proper felling techniques.
Buck the Tree: Buck the tree into firewood-length rounds (typically 16-24 inches).
Split the Rounds: Split the rounds into manageable sizes using a splitting axe or a log splitter.
Stack the Firewood: Stack the firewood in a well-ventilated area to allow it to season.
Season the Firewood: Allow the firewood to season for 6-12 months, depending on the climate and wood species.

Pro Tips for Wood Selection and Preparation

Choose the Right Wood for the Job: Select the wood species that is best suited for your intended purpose.
Season Firewood Properly: Allow firewood to season for at least 6 months before burning it.
Use a Log Splitter: A log splitter can significantly increase your efficiency when splitting firewood. I highly recommend investing in one if you process a lot of firewood. Hydraulic splitters are more expensive but make the job easier. Manual splitters are cheaper but require more physical effort.
Store Firewood Properly: Store firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent rot and decay.
Be Aware of Wood Regulations: Be aware of any local regulations regarding wood harvesting and firewood sales.

Strategic Insights: Maximizing Value Through Proper Wood Processing

Think of your wood processing operation as a business, even if it’s just a side hustle. By carefully selecting your wood, preparing it properly, and marketing it effectively, you can maximize its value. For example, selling seasoned hardwood firewood commands a higher price than green softwood. Similarly, milling high-quality lumber from valuable hardwoods can generate significant revenue.

I once helped a friend start a small firewood business. He initially struggled to make a profit because he was selling green wood at a low price. We advised him to focus on selling seasoned hardwood and to invest in a log splitter to increase his production rate. Within a year, his business was thriving.

Next Steps: Putting Your Knowledge into Action

Now that you’ve learned the five pro tips for getting the best cuts with your Stihl Farm Boss 20-inch bar, it’s time to put your knowledge into action.

Sharpen Your Chain: Start by mastering the art of chain sharpening. A sharp chain is the foundation of safe and efficient cutting.
Practice Felling Techniques: Practice felling techniques on smaller trees before attempting to fell larger ones.
Master Bucking Techniques: Learn different bucking techniques and choose the one that is best suited for your situation.
Maintain Your Chainsaw: Perform regular maintenance on your chainsaw to keep it running smoothly.
Choose the Right Wood: Select the wood species that is best suited for your intended purpose.
Prepare Your Wood Properly: Prepare your wood for firewood or lumber, depending on your needs.

Remember, safety is always the top priority. Always wear appropriate safety gear and be aware of your surroundings. With practice and patience, you’ll become a chainsaw master in no time. Now get out there and make some sawdust!