Your chainsaw will require sharpening. The frequency for sharpening your chain will depend on several factors such as whether or not you have let the chain come into contact with the ground or any other foreign object, the type of wood you are cutting, the amount of dirt and foreign object that can be embedded in the wood.

For example, barbed wire fence can become absorbed by a tree through the years of growth and your chain can reach speeds of 45 miles per hour and its it comes into contact with the ground for just a split second, that can be more than enough to dull the chain to the point that will require immediate sharpening.

Even a standing tree will have a certain amount of dirt embedded in its bark from wind blown debris that will dull your chain over time. One good rule of thumb to make sure your chain remains sharp and in good condition is to file the chain with a few light strokes on each tooth using a filing guide each time you refuel even if you think it's still sharp.

You can determine the chainsaw's condition by physically inspecting the cutting edges for rough or worn spots. Also be sure to inspect the chain links and ribbets for wear, cracks or damage. If any part of your chain is cracked, worn or damaged, you should replace it immediately and have the damaged chain inspected and repaired if possible by your authorized dealer.

When operating your chainsaw, there are certain things you can look for that will indicate the condition of your chain. When the chain is sharpened properly, it will produce large well-defined chips from the cut. When a chain isn't sharpened properly or is dull, it will produce a finely granulated form of powdered sawdust. Looking at the sawdust is a good first indication of the condition of your chain.

In operation, the chainsaw is designed to cut effortlessly and with very little pressure applied by the operator. If you find you have to apply excess pressure to the saw in order to cut, the chain is most likely dull or you may have a problem with your bar and chain lubrication system.

Often when you find you have to apply a lot of pressure to mark the chainsaw cut, you will also see smoke coming off the top of the bar, another good indication of the chain's condition or lubrication problem. If the conditions occur, you may need to sharpen your chain immediately or replace it and check the bar and chain lubrication system. To continue cutting with the dull chain or lack of bar and chain lubricant will cause operator fatigue and a high rate of wear on critical parts of your chainsaw.

Another indicator to look for is if your chainsaw tends to drift to the right of left in the cut. This would indicate that the angle on your chain has been sharpened incorrectly and will need to be resharpened or it could mean your bar rails are worn unevenly. This could also cause operator fatigue, unsafe operating conditions or damage to your chainsaw.

With the right tools and instruction, you can maintain your bar, chain and sprocket with confidence. Let's look at how you would perform this service in the field.

Okay, so you’re ready to get to work. Your cutting experience should consist of several steps. First, make sure you have all the equipment that you’ll need: your chainsaw fuel oil mix, bar and chain oil, items needed to maintain your saw, an axe, wedges, water, first aid kit, cell phone and very important: a partner. It’s recommended that you always have a partner with you and not work alone, to help share the workload as well as to watch out for each other and be available in case of emergency.

One very important rule: never operate your chainsaw if you are not in a good physical condition and mental health, fatigued or under the influence of any substance, which might impair vision or dexterity or judgment. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating a chainsaw.

The first task is to prepare your chainsaw for use. Begin by giving it one more inspection, looking for loose or broken parts, a chain that is sharpened and adjusted properly and a chain brake that operates properly.

Fueling your chainsaw should be done on a clear, level surface. Always fuel your chainsaw in an area of a minimum of 10 feet from where you’ll be starting the saw to avoid the chances of lingering fuel vapor from igniting. Wipe away any debris from around the fuel cap and release the cap slowly. Pressure can build up in your fuel tank and by slowly removing the cap; you will allow this excess pressure that may exist to release gradually.

Fill the tank with the proper fuel oil mix and reinstall the fuel cap. Wipe away any excess fuel that may be spilled on the chainsaw or the surface of where your chainsaw is sitting. If you happen to get any fuel on your clothes, change them immediately before using your chainsaw. Every time you add fuel to your chainsaw, you must also add bar and chain lubricant to the oil reservoir. Again, clean the area around the filler cap with a rag and remove the cap. Once fueled, replace the cap and wipe away any oil, which may have spilled.

Next, inspect the area where you will actually be working. Determine what you will be cutting, whether it is a standing tree or a tree already lying on the ground and then plan your work.

Regardless whether you are felling a tree or working around down trees, you must first look for obstacles that will help you determine the proper steps to take. If power lines are in the vicinity and near the wood you will be working on, it’s recommended that you have a professional with the proper tools and experience do the work for you. The same holds true if you will be working near building structures or other types of personal property such as vehicles or fences. Look for limbs and snags that will be located in the tops of trees in the area that you will be working referred to as widow makers by professional loggers.

Cutting wood with a chainsaw produces vibrations in the wood that can be just enough vibration to release a snagged limb. Disregarding this precaution and then being struck by a falling limb has injured many chainsaw operators, both seriously and fatally.

Also be keenly aware of the weather. If the weather is rainy or windy conditions persist, it is advised you postpone your work to another time. Wood becomes very slippery when wet which can cause you to lose your footing, possibly resulting in serious injury and wind can make it very difficult to manage the wood you are cutting, partially when felling a tree.

Other than the people there to assist you with your work, your partner should never allow anyone else or pets to be in or near the work area. The people working with you must always maintain a safe distance from the chainsaw and the work you are doing. Develop a set of hand gestures to communicate with each other at a safe distance from the work area.

Clear the area where you will be working to allow for solid footing and saw movement. Evaluate the condition of the wood you’ll be cutting and the surrounding area and make a plan on how you will proceed with the work the safest manner possible.