When it comes to chainsaws, even people who feel confident with other tools can make mistakes. Chainsaws are powerful, versatile, and—if used incorrectly—a bit unforgiving. That’s why it’s crucial to know what the most common mistakes are and, most importantly, how you can steer clear of them. Whether you’re a weekend woodcutter, a new homeowner taking on yard work, or a seasoned do-it-yourselfer, this post will help you avoid trouble and keep your chainsaw experience safe and productive.
1. Starting Your Chainsaw the Wrong Way
The Mistake:
Many beginners try to start their chainsaw by holding it in the air or even “drop starting”—pulling the starter cord while dangling the saw in one hand.
Why It’s Risky:
Drop starting or starting in the air gives you very little control over a tool that springs to life with real force. You’re risking a nasty injury right from the get-go.
How to Avoid It:
Always start the saw on the ground or between your knees for stability. Place your foot through the rear handle, hold the front handle firmly, and pull the starter cord smoothly. This way, the saw stays stable, secure, and pointed safely away from you as it revs up.
2. Ignoring Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The Mistake:
Skipping chaps, gloves, eye protection, or ear muffs because “it’ll just be a quick job.”
Why It’s Risky:
Chainsaws throw debris that can injure your hands, legs, eyes, and ears. Even the most careful users might face unexpected kickback—a sudden, forceful upward motion of the bar that happens in a split second.
How to Avoid It:
Suit up before you start. Wear:
- Chainsaw chaps or pants
- Steel-toed boots
- Safety glasses or a face shield
- Hearing protection
- Non-slip gloves
Always treat PPE as non-negotiable, not optional.
3. Using the Wrong Chain or Dull Chain
The Mistake:
Fitting the wrong chain type, running a chain that’s too loose, tight, or blunt, or neglecting regular maintenance.
Why It’s Risky:
The wrong chain won’t cut cleanly, may damage the saw, or kick back. A dull chain means you’ll push harder, which increases the risk of losing control and getting injured.
How to Avoid It:
- Check your chainsaw manual for the correct replacement chain.
- Keep the chain sharp; use the right file and angle, or get it professionally sharpened if unsure.
- Check tension regularly, especially when you first fit a new chain—it will stretch! The right tension is “just snug,” moving smoothly but not dangling from the bar.
4. Cutting with the Tip or Above Shoulder Level
The Mistake:
Trying to cut with the very tip of the bar or reaching up above your shoulders.
Why It’s Risky:
Tip cutting is a leading cause of kickback—where the saw jolts uncontrollably toward you. Overhead or awkward cuts reduce your control.
How to Avoid It:
- Always cut at waist level or lower, never above shoulders.
- Use the flat (bottom) of the bar for most cuts.
- Stay steady, with solid footing and both hands on the saw.
5. Disabling or Bypassing Safety Features
The Mistake:
Removing chain brakes, throttle locks, or anti-vibration handles.
Why It’s Risky:
These features are there for your protection. Disabling them makes every cut more dangerous.
How to Avoid It:
If a safety feature is broken, repair it before use. Never use a saw without working chain brakes and throttle locks.
6. Poor Stance and Grip
The Mistake:
Standing off-balance, grip too loose, one-handed chainsaw operation, or “chicken-wing” arms.
Why It’s Risky:
A chainsaw can buck, catch, or twist without warning. Poor stance means you’re more likely to lose control or get injured.
How to Avoid It:
- Keep feet shoulder-width apart for balance.
- Grip both handles firmly—right hand on rear, left hand on front (even if left-handed).
- Keep the saw close to your body for better control, not extended out.
7. Not Planning Your Cut (or Escape Route)
The Mistake:
Starting a cut without clearing the area or checking where a branch or trunk might fall.
Why It’s Risky:
Unexpected tree movement or kickback can lead to major accidents, especially if you have nowhere quick and clear to move.
How to Avoid It:
- Plan cuts in advance, especially with big limbs or trees.
- Always clear your cut area and have an escape path ready.
- Never work with people or pets within “kickback” or felling distance—usually at least 3–5 meters.
8. Refueling a Hot Chainsaw or Leaving It Running Unattended
The Mistake:
Pouring fuel into a hot engine or walking away while it’s idling.
Why It’s Risky:
Hot engines can ignite fuel vapors, and an unattended running saw is always a hazard.
How to Avoid It:
- Always let it cool before refilling.
- Never leave any running tool out of sight—even to “grab something quick.”
9. Skipping Regular Maintenance
The Mistake:
Only checking the chainsaw when something goes wrong.
Why It’s Risky:
A poorly maintained saw is an accident waiting to happen. Dull chains, loose screws, clogged air filters, or old fuel can all lead to safety issues.
How to Avoid It:
- Clean your saw after every use.
- Sharpen the chain and check tension.
- Inspect safety features, fuel lines, and bar oil.
A Final Word
Mastering safe chainsaw use isn’t about being “extra careful”—it’s about making smart choices before you cut. Avoiding these common mistakes keeps you, your family, and your property safe. If you ever feel uncertain, pause, review your plan, or seek training. The best users keep learning.
Respect your chainsaw, and it will be a safe, powerful ally for years to come. Happy (and safe) cutting!
