Saws are used in all areas of industry, as well as in everyday life. The choice depends on the complexity and scope of work.
How to choose a saw
When choosing any type of saw, the following characteristics should be considered:
- engine power (both for electric and gasoline saws), it depends on how effectively the tool will cope with the loads;
- rotational speed of the cutting blade for circular saws;
- mechanism for maintaining a constant speed of rotation under load;
- for chain saws, an important characteristic will be the length of the bar (the size of the workpiece to be processed depends on it);
- operating time with a fully charged battery for cordless saws (the higher the battery voltage, the longer the operating time of the tool with the same capacity);
- the weight of the tool (the most powerful saws have more weight, but it is impossible to work with a heavy saw for a long time);
- protective mechanisms (increase the safety of work);
- manufacturer (well-known brands are much more expensive, but they are of high quality and reliability);
- additional functions (laser pointer, sawdust extraction device, smooth start of the electric motor);
- how convenient it is to adjust the tool (the more different adjustments, the more functionality the tool has);
- cutting depth and immersion capability (for circular saws);
- ease of use (for hand tools);
- required voltage for electric saws (220 W for household and 380 W for some industrial devices).
When choosing a tool, do not pay attention to:
- No spare circular saw blades or chain saw chains included with the tool. These materials are consumable and can be purchased separately.
- The length of the electric cord for the power tool, if the other specifications are completely satisfactory.
- Unassuming appearance (you have to work with the instrument, and not show off at the exhibition).
- Lack of tires in the set with plunge saws, since they are easy to pick up on your own.
In the case when you need to cut one or two bars, you can use the manual one. But if you need to make a large number of cuts, then it is worth using a cordless saw.
The use of pre-charged batteries will allow you to extend the time, and the absence of unnecessary wires will ensure comfortable work.
TO advantages relate:
- the simplest service;
- low noise;
- high maneuverability;
Cons are:
- high cost in comparison with a network tool;
- gradual decrease in battery life during operation;
- reduced operating time at low temperatures.
Depending on the requirements, it is possible to purchase:
- a professional tool capable of cutting boards of any size;
- compact, designed for cutting small bars, chipboard sheets.
Chainsaws are divided into professional and household. The former are designed for constant large and long-term loads, for example, felling trees and sawing large diameter logs. Households are not suited for serious work.
TO positive qualities gasoline saws are independent from the source of electric current, so you can use them both outdoors and on vacation, and in your household.
TO disadvantages relate:
- the need to prepare a gasoline mixture;
- harmful emissions;
- price;
- maintenance is more difficult than similar electrical models;
- coarser cut compared to circular saws.
- Husqvarna 365 is the leader among professional chainsaws. Technical characteristics, reliability and ease of use ensured the leading position in the rating.
The maximum bar length of 75 cm with a motor power of 3400 W allows you to cut almost any log without jamming.
- Stihl MS 260 belongs to the semi-professional models and can compete in performance with professional models, despite the lower weight and power.
Like household saws, it is best used for sawing small logs for firewood, construction work. The engine power (2400 W) and the length of the bar (40 cm) will allow you to saw large logs, but you should not constantly use it for this.
- Household gasoline saw Makita EA3203S-40 suitable for small work in the country, for repairs.
If necessary, you can even prepare firewood, but you should not forget that the 1350 W motor is not designed for constant loads.
Circular saws are conventionally divided into professional ones, which are capable of unraveling even oak boards, and household saws, which are not recommended to be overloaded. The cutting accuracy of this tool is much higher than that of chain saws.
They are used both battery-powered (they do not differ in high power and are not able to work for a long time without charging the battery), and saws operating from the electric network.
The main advantage is considered to be a clean and even cut when longitudinal cutting of boards and beams.
When using circular saws, it is impossible to cut along a curved line, this is a disadvantage.
It is worth highlighting three models that are leaders in their classes:
- Of the budget semi-professional models, the most functional Bosch PKS... Its advantages include high rotation speed (4500 rpm), blocking of the spindle, the presence of a branch for connecting a vacuum cleaner, and reliability.
However, there are also disadvantages inherent in most budget models: a weak motor (600 W), one rotation speed and a small diameter of the cutting disc (130 mm).
For home use, this model is the best choice for a relatively low price.
- Makita SP6000 Set recommended for people who constantly work with sawing boards, sheet materials.
A soft start system, enhanced user protection from the action of the cutting disc, 1300 W power, adjustable engine speed (up to 5200 rpm), connection of a vacuum cleaner and electronic engine protection are the advantages of this model.
There are no drawbacks, except for the price, but a professional tool is always more expensive than a household one, so if you use it frequently, it is worth purchasing this model.
- You can save money by purchasing a saw from a lesser-known Russian manufacturer. ELITECH PD 1255P 14 should be used for cutting timber at an angle, sheet materials, including aluminum.
It belongs to plunge-cut saws, so it can be used to cut into a worktop, cut out a rotten section of the floor or make grooves in the required places.
Impressive technical characteristics allow it to compete with more well-known brands: 1200 W power, 5500 rpm, cutting depth adjustment, connection to a vacuum cleaner and user protection.
High noise and lack of a laser pointer are disadvantages.
Conventionally, electric chain saws are divided into professional, semi-professional and household. Professional equipment is used in industry, because of the high price, it is rarely purchased for housework and gardening.
For construction, housework requiring frequent use without heavy loads, semi-professional equipment is used. Households will allow you to cut firewood, cut boards, beams, even foam concrete.
How comfortable they are to work with and whether it will cope with the tasks depends on the right choice of tool.
This tool competes with gasoline saws thanks to a number of advantages In front of them:
- the noise level is lower than that of gasoline counterparts;
- lack of exhaust gases;
- maintenance of the engine is not required during operation;
- no fuel mixture required;
- light weight;
- the price, in comparison with gasoline saws having similar characteristics, is lower.
In addition to positive qualities, there are negative:
- short operating time of battery models;
- the presence of a cord requires extra care when working.
- Makita UC4030A is a representative of a professional tool with a power of 2 kW with a bus length of 40 cm. Powered only from the mains.
It stands out for its light weight, easy chain tension adjustment, high-quality assembly and low price with good performance.
Soft start, user protection, chain brake ensure safe operation.
- Stands out from semi-professional models Bosch AKE 30 S... 1800 W motor, 3.6 kg weight and 30 cm bar length provide maneuverability and allow one-handed cuts.
The SDS system facilitates chain tensioning.
- The best combination of price / quality has Interskol PC-16 / 2000TN.
Engine power 2,000 W, tire length 40 cm with a weight of 6 kg.
Unlike other brands, it does not stand out for its quiet operation, engine power, but its low price, high performance, the presence of protective devices and a slightly worse workmanship have determined its place in the market.
The tool is designed for cutting large holes in concrete walls, wood, stainless steel and other materials. All hole saws are equipped with a pilot drill, which allows you to accurately drill the center.
Collapsible models are available, allowing the use of saws of several diameters on one guide, and non-collapsible models.
When choosing a tool, it is important to consider the nature of the work.
If you need a large number of holes of different diameters, then you should give preference to a collapsible tool.
In the case when you need to make many holes of the same diameter, it is cheaper to purchase a non-separable hole saw.
It is imperative to know exactly what material to work with, as a saw designed for concrete is not suitable for drilling metal or wood.
Large holes are required for piping, electrical installations, furniture making.
When using another tool, it is difficult to get even edges, so hole saws are widely used both in industry and in everyday life.
A variety of professional kits are available to provide the desired result when working with a variety of materials:
- Bimetal kits IRVIN made of a combination of two metals. High-alloy tool steel is used for the manufacture of the cutting part, which ensures durability and reliability.
Designed for cutting holes in steel, aluminum and zinc blanks.
- For woodwork, plastic and chipboard, it is worth purchasing a set of the trademark KRAFTOOL... The kits are available in various configurations, so choosing the right one is not difficult.
- Professional concrete kits of the highest quality and durability are available BAHCO... Recommended for people who are constantly involved in the work of laying communications.
Band saw machines are designed for processing wood, chipboard sheets, plastic, metal.
Unlike circular and chain saws, they allow curved cuts, which expands the scope. The working tool (saw) is ring-shaped, with a serrated edge on one side.
Band saws are structurally different:
- along the width of the canvas;
- in composition (the blade can be homogeneous or consist of hardened teeth and a soft body).
Band saw machines are divided into:
- professional (stationary) models designed for large volumes of work;
- semi-professional (desktop), which are used for small industries;
- household (hand-held) intended for use without undue stress.
In addition, depending on the area of use, there are:
- vertical band saws (the plane of the cutting tool is located perpendicular to the table), which have become widespread in woodworking;
- horizontal ones are used for cutting the largest workpieces, logs of any rigidity;
- manual.
Compared with any other type of saw, the band saw equipment has the following advantages:
- the resulting cut does not require further processing;
- the width of the cut obtained is smaller than that of chain and circular saws, which saves material;
- the dimensions of the workpieces and the processing speed are higher than that of other types of saws;
- operator safety, ensured by the fact that you do not need to hold the tool in your hands;
- workpieces can be cut oblique, straight, curly, at a given angle;
- professional models are fully automated, which provides feeding and cutting of the workpiece without the help of an operator.
The disadvantages of band saws include:
- it is impossible to operate outside the source of electric current;
- the need to periodically remove the cutting blade to relieve fatigue stress and sharpen.
- A professional tool suitable for small workshops is WoodTec LS With a machine power of 2.2 kW, it can handle workpieces with a height of 280 mm, allowing for cuts of 0.7 mm to a width of up to 460 mm.
In addition, this machine works with corner and curved cuts. There is a sawdust outlet, convenient saw tension, adjustable speed. Corner cuts are carried out by tilting the working table at an angle of up to 45 degrees.
- A band saw is made of a household tool of the highest quality Makita 2107FW.
Power 710 W, cutting width and height 210 mm, weight 5.7 kg, a set of additional functions allow it to be used for sawing both sheet materials and beams, boards, plastic of appropriate sizes.
- A functional semi-professional tool is Gongyou Group MJ.
Engine power 7.5 kW, automatic feed, cutting height 200 mm, working width 500 mm, quick adjustment to another size and feed speed provided the machine with positive recommendations.
For home use, in addition to hand-held circular saws, table-top circular saws are used. They are designed to obtain an even cut along the entire length of the workpiece.
Unlike hand-held circular saws, the tool does not move when cutting, all actions are performed by the workpiece.
Compared to hand-held or stationary power tools, table saws have the following advantages:
- safer to use;
- cuts more precisely;
- equipped with a bed that provides material running along the entire length;
- the cutting depth is adjusted using a subject table;
- transportation is much easier compared to stationary machines.
Disadvantages:
- curly cut is not provided due to design features;
- dependence on sources of electric current.
- BOSCH PTS 10 wins in functionality. Sawing up to 75 mm, a speed of 5000 rpm, the presence of guides and the ability to cut at a given angle will allow you to enjoy the work of the machine.
- ELITECH CP 1221 significantly exceeds the price range. It has the full range of functions of branded machines. The small diameter of the disc, which does not allow sawing workpieces over 45 mm thick, limits the application.
- BOSCH GTS 10 XC Professional equipped with all possible basic and additional functions, can be used in industry. The only drawback is the price.
The main difference from circular saws is the presence of a mechanism that allows you to adjust the immersion of the cutting blade into the material.
For the correct choice of a plunge-cut saw, the following characteristics must be assessed:
- ease of use (to determine it is enough to hold the tool in your hands);
- electric motor power;
- revolutions and the presence of their adjustment;
- the complexity of the setting (the easier it is to set the immersion depth, the faster the work will be done);
- the presence of a soft start system;
- range of diameters of cutting discs;
- weight in working order.
Dignity plunge saws:
- the accuracy of material processing is higher than that of other types;
- the ability to make internal cuts and cutouts.
The main disadvantages are:
- high, in comparison with other types of hand tools, price range;
- the complexity of processing parts.
- Makita SP 6000 It is distinguished by a high degree of user protection (the cutting part is completely covered by a casing) and low weight. Refers to semi-professional tools, so it can be used in small industries.
It has a smooth start, a system for maintaining and adjusting the speed, convenient adjustment of the immersion, it is possible to perform cuts at an angle. The only drawback is the price.
- INTERSKOL PP-165 / 1300EM- an inexpensive model with a lot of functions. Engine power and functionality are not inferior to branded models. Disadvantages - increased noise, lack of a guide rail included.
- Professional models designed for work in production include BOSCH GKT 55 GCE601.675.001.
The advantages of the model are high quality performance and reliability with a full range of functions. Disadvantages - the price and weight of the tool.
Universal saws are designed for sawing sheet materials such as drywall, ceramics, stone, chipboard, fiberboard. The design allows curved cuts to be made, despite the fact that the cutting tool is a disc.
Advantages of universal saws:
- closed cutting disc;
- adjustable cutting depth;
- tool weight;
- price.
Disadvantages:
- low power, which does not allow working with thick materials;
- low cutting accuracy;
- there is no possibility of corner cuts;
- minimal set of functions.
- BOSCH PKS 16 Multi allows you to make cuts up to 16 mm deep. It stands out from the household tool for its high quality workmanship, ease of disk replacement, an automatic speed control system, and reliability.
- Vector VDMP-810 refers to a semi-professional instrument of domestic production. Possible use in small industries and in everyday life, since the price of a saw is lower than that of branded counterparts.
- Merits STURM CS5060MS is a rechargeable type of power supply and a low price range. Not intended for use in industry, but in everyday life it can become an irreplaceable assistant.
Circular machines are powerful devices for processing wood, plastic and other sheet materials. Used in industry, with the exception of low-power models. They are divided into three types:
- Professional. They have the highest power, are designed for continuous operation, consume a lot of electricity.
- Household. They are powered by a 220 V electrical network. Suitable for small workshops or for home use.
- Semi-professional. Smaller than professional, fewer features. Can be used in workshops or at home. They are characterized by a large set of functions and a relatively high cost.
- Metabo TKHS 315 M stands out from a number of semi-professional models used in industry for the highest quality of performance.
Powered by a 380 V three-phase network, engine power 3 kW. Equipped with a workpiece feeding device, a closed motor, and a soft start system.
- Dewalt DW729KN a professional device with a high degree of operator protection, adapted for continuous work.
The control of the cutting disc is console. A set of functions allows you to cut workpieces at the desired angle from any point. It is not used in everyday life due to the high price and weight.
- Inexpensive household devices powered by a 220 V network include Hitachi C 10 RE... It is used for small-scale production or in everyday life. This machine is multifunctional at an affordable price.
The chainsaw has long been a faithful assistant to man. Wherever it is necessary to knock down a tree, cut it into pieces, saw off branches, prepare logs or a bar for construction work - there you can hear the characteristic sound of the engine and the squeal of a saw. A rare household does not find this simple and reliable tool. The chainsaw even became the heroine of a whole series of horror films. There are hundreds of devices on the market from dozens of companies - how to choose the right chainsaw for your home?
Types and main indicators (parameters and functions) of chainsaws
There are several types of chainsaws
- Household ones are used during the construction of small wooden buildings - sheds or gazebos, pruning garden trees, sawing trunks for firewood and other things. Such a low-power device is made of inexpensive materials, has the simplest design, and can withstand an hour or two of use per day. The price of such devices is low.
- Semi-professional chainsaws are a more serious unit. They can be used in building houses, felling thin trees, and pruning branches in logging. These models are more powerful and can work continuously for several hours. They cost much more than household ones.
- Professional devices have a powerful, more than 5 liters. with. engine, made of the finest materials and designed to run continuously for at least eight hours. They also have a longer tire and a larger fuel tank. They are used in felling. Their resource is several times greater than the resource of household devices.
The chain pitch is the distance between adjacent teeth of the chain; the performance of the device depends on it. A larger step is used in professional powerful devices, they have a high cutting speed, but also a large vibration. Performance is also related to chain width. It varies from 1 mm for the lightest household devices to 5 mm for professional powerful units. When buying a spare chain, in addition to its length, it is imperative to check the width.
Tires and tool safety
The length of the bar determines the maximum cutting depth. Usually, household models are equipped with tires of 25-40 cm, for professional ones, the tire can reach a meter.
The motor power and torque must match the length of the tire.
Despite the technical ability to install a long tire from a semi-professional saw on a household model, this is not worth doing: a constant overload of a weak motor will lead to its increased wear and damage.
All models are equipped with security systems. If a dangerous situation arises, to stop the chain, it is enough to push the special lever with the back of the palm of the hand holding the handle. The inertial brake will apply and the chain will stop in a fraction of a second before causing any harm. To select a safe unit, it is necessary to check the ease of movement of the lever and the time of the complete stop of the chain.
Chainsaw for giving which one to choose
There is no single answer to this question, since there are no two identical people and two identical summer cottages. Each has its own needs, its own list and the amount of planned use. The best choice of chainsaw will be different in each case.
To choose a chainsaw for a dacha, you need to decide what types of activities will be carried out in this dacha. A good chainsaw doesn't have to be the most powerful or the most expensive. It is more important that in terms of its resource it corresponds to your tasks and physical capabilities.
Productivity is important when you have a lot of work ahead of you. And with periodic pruning of trees and shrubs, it will be more important to have a low weight of the device, which you will have to carry around the garden, saw from stairs and with outstretched arms.
Household chainsaws
If you need to choose a chainsaw for occasional gardening for one-off gardening or to cut logs for wood, then the best chainsaw is the household model.
They have a small recommended monthly resource of use - 20-30 hours. Small size and weight will allow an elderly person, woman or teenager to use the device without getting tired. This is the best chainsaw for your home. The use of a low profile chain minimizes vibration, making it even easier to use the saw for home use.
Semi-professional chainsaws
Semi-professional class models have more power, but also larger dimensions, weight and fuel consumption.
It makes sense to choose a chainsaw of this level if there is an average construction site, cutting thin trees, cutting them for firewood.
It is important not to forget that the maximum time of continuous operation should not exceed several hours, as indicated in the product passport.
It is reasonable to choose a chainsaw of this type - powerful, heavy and gluttonous if a large log house is being erected or thick trees are falling over a large area.
Without a break, such a professional-class unit can work for more than 8 hours, the motor power reaches 12 liters. with., and the tire is a little shorter than a full meter.
These reliable chainsaws have a service life that is three times higher than that of household appliances.
But they also cost several, or even several tens of times more.
Characteristics of the general indicators of chainsaws
Engine power determines other performance characteristics such as:
- cutting depth;
- cutting speed;
- tire departure.
Significant characteristics of the degree of work safety are:
- kickback protection;
- vibration protection.
Chainsaw tires
The longer the bar, the thicker the wood you can cut. The motor power must be sufficient for this.
Tires of the following types are widely used:
- narrow, used on low-power household units;
- lightweight, assembled from two steel strips connected by a polyamide layer;
- elongated, used on powerful machines for cutting thick trees.
Chainsaw chain
To successfully select the device, study the parameters of the circuit.
The thickness of the chain must correspond to the thickness of the bar; chains with a thickness of 1 to 5 mm are used. The chain pitch, or the distance between its teeth, is 0.3 inches for low-power tools and up to 0.5 inches for powerful professional machines.
Chainsaw kickback protection
If the end of the tire hits the surface of the tree, a sudden jerk to the side may occur. In this case, the ability to instantly stop the chain is of great importance. The inertial brake is activated by a lever next to the handle. During the jerk, the hand rests on the lever and the brake is applied.
Chainsaw anti-vibration protection
Long-term exposure to vibration has a harmful effect on all systems of the human body.
In order to choose the right tool for continuous work, it is necessary to check the presence of a vibration protection system in it.
For this, elastic shock absorbers are installed on the saw between the handles and the machine body.
The chainsaw engine is her heart, and in the same way needs to be treated with care. When purchasing, schedule appropriate care and periodic maintenance.
Modern engines are sensitive to the quality of the fuel and oil poured into them. And if Ural and Druzhba agree to run on 76 gasoline and M6 oils, then for imported models it will be cheaper to buy those gasoline and oil that are indicated in the user manual. Repair and replacement of units will definitely cost more.
The same goes for periodic replacement of spark plugs and fuel filters.
How to choose a chainsaw for quality price
To choose the right chainsaw, it is worth reading thematic forums and user reviews about which brand they used in certain specific conditions.
There are many good reviews, for example, about the Taiga-246 model. This is a good choice if you are looking for a budget unit for a variety of applications. The Ural series of chainsaws is suitable if you need a powerful, professional car. Unfortunately, there are many complaints about the reliability of their products to domestic manufacturers.
If we take into consideration the ratio of price and quality, then the more expensive, but also more reliable Makita and Husqvarna come out ahead. These companies produce fairly lightweight and compact amateur models with low vibration levels, very modest fuel and oil consumption. High-quality materials and modern design solutions used in their manufacture ensure high reliability and make gardening easy, safe and convenient. Such models will cost up to 20 tons.
The leaders in terms of reliability and durability are saws from Johnsred and Stihl. They are also leading in price - up to 30 tons.
To select a saw and not regret your choice, remember that a break-in period is required before starting work use.
The motor must run at low speeds from half an hour to an hour so that its parts work in better together and the lubrication clearances between the parts reach their design values, ensuring a reliable and constant oil supply in all operating modes. If you immediately give full throttle, then the scuffs formed on the rubbing vapors will significantly reduce the service life of the engine and the chainsaw as a whole.
From all the variety of models offered on the Russian market, both budget and most expensive models find their buyers. Based on the results of purchasing preferences, the following analysis was carried out:
- Stihl is one of the recognized technology leaders. This company was the first to launch an electric hand saw on the market. Stihl and its subsidiaries produce a very wide range of gasoline-powered mobile devices - chainsaws, motor-drills, lawn mowers, trimmers, etc. It makes sense to choose this company if you are looking for a reliable, easy-to-use and productive chainsaw in any category - from household to professional , including specialized equipment for rescue operations. Price range from 16 tr. for amateur models up to tens and even hundreds of thousands for professional and specialized.
- Husqvarna is the oldest Swedish company on the market. Today it has the largest market share for household equipment and supplies. The company's products are distinguished by high quality and reliability of even the most inexpensive amateur instruments. Price range - from 14 tr. for an amateur series and from 30 t. p. for the professional.
- Dolmar is a German concern, part of the Makita group of companies. He also owns the Kab Kadet trademark. You should be careful - semi-professional saws of these brands cost from 25 tons. are produced in Japan and Europe, but amateur models with a price of 11 tr. are collected in China.
- Champion is a fairly new manufacturer from China on the market, offering the widest range of gasoline and electric garden tools, motor drills and saws. With a very affordable price for amateur devices up to 20 tons. the quality of the Chinese chainsaws is more than satisfactory.
- Patriot is a US manufacturer, but all manufacturing is located in China. The quality is quite acceptable, but one must be aware that for 8-15 tons. the saw can only be made from inexpensive materials. This significantly limits the resource of the device, and they can be considered as household appliances, but not professional equipment.
- Partner is the Chinese subsidiary of Husqvarna. The advanced design solutions of the parent company and the Swedish quality control system implemented at the Chinese factories make it possible to ensure the high quality of even inexpensive amateur cars at a price of 5 to 15 tons. However, the resource constraints are exactly the same as those of the Patriot products.
- Hyundai is a South Korean industrial giant renowned for its automotive products and consumer electronics, and is also active in the tool market. Their chainsaws at an affordable price of 9-21 tons. have high quality motors. Cheap materials make the case rather weak.
There are dozens of other manufacturers on the market, but due to low sales volumes, experimenting with the acquisition of their products can be risky.
Chainsaw attachments
The design of the chainsaw motor, developed over a century, is able to work stably at a variety of inclines, except perhaps in the "upside down" position, has given rise to many ideas for using this reliable drive for various additional work.
Attach to the working shaft:
- Gas cutter attachment for cutting stone, concrete and other durable materials.
- Debarker - Disk allows you to make grooves in a log or in a bar, to level the curvature of the surface). The drum allows you to debark trunks, cut off branches, branches and slugs.
- A motor pump connected to the drive shaft through a pulley system. It is especially convenient and safe for pumping water in the absence of power supply, for example, in flooded rooms.
- Motor-drill - in winter, when there is nothing special to saw with a chainsaw, it can be converted into an indispensable assistant for ice fishing.
- Motor winch - here the scope of improvement work will be one of the most serious. It will be necessary to make a reliable frame, mount an engine, a gearbox, a gear system, a winch drum with a reliable stopper, and controls on it. In addition, it will be necessary to design and manufacture devices for attaching the winch frame to tree trunks, driven anchors or to a counterweight of sufficient mass to perform lifting and transport operations. You will also need to purchase reliable cables, hooks and other slinging equipment.
- Boat Motor - The design was first developed after World War II in Indochina. The fishermen there couldn't afford outboard motors, but they could afford a chainsaw. And they adapted it as an engine for their boats. A long bamboo pole was placed on the work shaft and lowered into the water at a slight angle. And at the second end, a wooden screw was installed. Such parts did not last long, but they were quickly replaced. In our conditions, a metal pipe, a gearbox and a propeller from an old outboard motor are used. Such a device makes it possible to reach speeds of up to 10-15 km / h, it will take up to a liter of fuel per hour.
There are also ideas for converting a chainsaw into a snow blower, power plant, moped, kart, buggy, snowmobile, snowmobile, and even a mini helicopter. The authors of all these exotic designs need to remember how much continuous work is acceptable for a used saw, and interrupt their journey in time to cool the engine. In addition, homemade vehicles are prohibited from being used on public roads and in airspace outside designated areas. Everyone can choose the method of additional use of the chainsaw in accordance with their needs and technical capabilities
Possible problems
The most common problems with gasoline devices:
- Do not start the engine. Check the gasoline level. If there is enough gasoline, you need to clean the fuel filters and a special sump, blow out the gas hose. Check the condition of the spark plug, clean it from carbon deposits. On modern motors, it is impossible to check for the presence of a spark, short circuit v of the high-voltage wire to the case.
- Interruptions in work. Water may get into fuel. In this case, you should replace the fuel with a quality one. It is also possible that the fastening of the cylinder jacket to the crankcase is loosened - the nuts should be tightened more tightly.
- Overheating of the motor. Clean the slots in the air cooler jacket. Check the percentage of oil in the fuel according to the table in the owner's manual.
You should not try to fix the rest of the faults yourself if you are not sure if you have sufficient skills, but contact the service center. Unqualified self-repair can completely disable the unit, and no warranty obligations will apply.
Any owner of a country house necessarily has to deal with the need to carry out operations for sawing wood. This is especially in demand when carrying out construction or repair work, which are usually always in private households. If the house has stoves, then it is constantly required to replenish the fuel supply. Plus to everything - caring for the local area: regular pruning of trees or a complete cut of old, unnecessary, trimming shrubs and hedges, etc. Even organizing leisure activities often requires turning to a saw - when it is necessary to prepare fuel for a barbecue or a summer grill oven.
It is quite possible to use the "old-fashioned" approach with the use of ordinary and two-handed saws, an ax, a pruner, but it takes a lot of time, which is usually not enough, and requires considerable physical effort. It is good that in our time there is an opportunity to purchase a modern mechanized tool that greatly simplifies the implementation of labor-intensive operations. So, chainsaws are in great demand, due to the convenience of working with them and full autonomy - independence from the availability of a power source. But in order for the tool to really meet the expectations of its owner, you should definitely understand how to choose the right chainsaw, what you should pay special attention to when buying.
Experienced users who have been using chainsaws for a long time in their daily work probably know the basic selection criteria. But for those who are just going to acquire this useful "assistant" for the first time, for a start it is worth at least a little to understand the structure of the chainsaw - in order to understand what will be discussed when assessing the characteristics of the tool.
How does a chainsaw work?
The range of chainsaws is very wide, as they are used in a wide variety of areas.
- This is an indispensable tool both in companies engaged in industrial timber harvesting and in forestry enterprises that regularly clean up the massifs from dead wood or unnecessary overgrowth.
- In chainsaws, they are used in the preparation of wooden parts of erected structures, cutting window and door openings in log cabins from logs or timber, sampling the necessary grooves or spikes and for many other operations.
- The variety of domestic, economic uses of the chainsaw has already been mentioned above - it is an indispensable assistant to a good homeowner.
- Moreover, in the skilled hands of the master, the chainsaw becomes a tool for creating works of art - logs or logs are transformed into unique garden wooden sculptures.
But, despite such a wide range of uses, all chainsaws have approximately the same design and work according to the same principle.
First, consider the outside of the chainsaw:
The entire main structure of the saw is covered with a plastic or metal case (pos. 1). Inside there is a power unit (engine) and components and mechanisms that ensure its start and operation. In the upper part, the housing has a removable cover (pos. 2), which, when removed, opens access to the power supply and ignition systems.
Any saw has two working handles. Front - in the form of an arc encircling the top of the body (pos. 3), and the rear (pos. 4), with the controls located on it.
In the front of the chainsaw there is a tire (pos. 5), with the saw chain stretched on it (pos. 6).
To start the power unit, a recoil starter is used, the handle of which is located on the left side of the body (pos. 7). For pre-pumping fuel into the carburetor, most models have a special button for the hand pump (pos. 8). Most often it is indicated by the "Primer" sign.
Directly near the rear handle, so that you can easily reach with your finger, there is a toggle switch for turning the engine ignition system on and off (pos. 9).
There are always two filler openings on the left side of the body - for refueling the saw with fuel (key 10) and for filling the chain and bar lubrication system reservoir (key 11). The necks are closed with sealed plugs. The location of the necks may differ from the example shown in the figure, but there are always inscriptions or pictograms that unambiguously indicate the purpose of the filling container.
Prices and model line of chainsaws CALIBER
chainsaw caliber
The engine speed is controlled by the throttle key (key 12) located on the rear saw handle. On top of the handle there is always one more key - the lock (pos. 13), without pressing which it is impossible to transfer the control action to the throttle. This is one of the frontiers of ensuring safety at work.
In front of the front handle there is always a special safety guard (pos. 14), which is kinematically connected to the emergency chain brake.
On the opposite side of the chainsaw, there is a metal or plastic cover (pos. 15) that covers the unit for transferring rotation from the engine to the drive sprocket of the saw chain. There is also a mechanism for adjusting the chain tension, its lubrication, as well as two fastening nuts (pos. 16) fixing the installed position of the bar.
The internal combustion engine used in chainsaws is a single-cylinder, two-stroke. Its dimensions, respectively - the diameter of the cylinder and its volume, directly depend on the power and predetermine the purpose of the tool.
Two-stroke engines do not have a dedicated lubrication system. For normal operation of the mechanisms, it is enough to use a correctly selected gasoline-oil mixture as a fuel. The gasoline component burns out in the cylinder, and the oil component provides lubrication of the friction units.
The engine cooling system is air. For greater efficiency of heat transfer, the ribbing of the outer cylinder body (item 1) is provided, and the engine flywheel has a peculiar configuration of a turbine with blades (item 5), which provide a forced powerful air flow.
Ignition of the working fuel mixture in the cylinder is carried out by a candle (item 2). Fuel supply from the carburetor to the cylinder is through a special connecting pipe (pos. 3). There is always a muffler (item 4), which reduces the noise of the unit and directs the exhaust to the side.
There is no gearbox with a change in the number of revolutions from the engine to the drive sprocket - the speed is controlled only by the throttle valve. But there is a clutch system (pos. 5) - the transmission of torque is carried out only when a certain level of revolutions is reached.
This mechanism works on a centrifugal principle. The clutch pads (their number may differ in different models) are pulled to the center by a spring (pos. 2). The tightening force is calculated so that when idling, the pads do not contact the inner surface of the drum (pos. 3), which is rigidly connected to the drive chain sprocket (pos. 4), and the rotation of the engine shaft (pos. 1) is not transmitted further.
With an increase in the number of revolutions, massive blocks, overcoming the resistance of the springs under the action of centrifugal force, are pressed against the inner surface of the drum, and the torque is transmitted to the saw chain.
The bar with the chain has a slot for insertion on the saw pins (pos. 6) and centering holes for a stopper (pin), the position of which can be changed with a special screw (pos. 5) - this is how the chain tension is adjusted.
On many chainsaw models, a toothed chain catcher (pos. 7) is located in the same area. If the chain breaks or falls off, it must prevent injury to the worker's hands.
Here, through the screw pump, the oil supply channel from the tank for lubricating the chain and tire gears is also brought out. Many models are equipped with an adjusting screw with which you can change the flow rate.
The outer surface of the drum (pos. 3) also plays another function - it is part of the chain emergency braking mechanism.
When assembling the assembly, the drum is surrounded by a spring-loaded steel strip ring (pos. 1). When the saw is inoperative, this belt is pressed against the drum by a spring. Before starting to use the tool, the master presses the shield (pos. 2) back. In this position, the belt is loosened and the drum can rotate freely.
Why is this done? A chainsaw is a dangerous tool and the chain running on the bar can cause serious injury. Kickback phenomenon is especially dangerous - when the tire is thrown up or to the side. When the saw is in working order, the safety guard in the rear position is very close to the worker's hand holding the tool by the front handle. In the event of a sudden kickback of the saw up or to the side, the back of the hand will involuntarily move the guard to the forward position, the spring-loaded belt will squeeze the drum, and its rotation for 0.5 - 1 second will be stopped, which means that the chain movement will also be interrupted. The engine remains running.
The diagram under # 3 shows a screw that changes the position of the pin when adjusting the chain tension.
True, the work of such a brake also requires special care of the master. If you increase the engine speed without moving the flap to the rear operating position, then it is easy to overheat the mechanism and even cause the polymer parts of the structure to melt, causing the entire mechanism to fail. And to work without a valid chain brake is strictly prohibited.
To start the engine - to transfer the starting torque to it, which will provide the supply of the combustible mixture from the carburetor to the cylinder and create an impulse for sparking on the spark plug, a manual starter is used.
The starter design is simple. This is a drum with a rope (cord) wound around it, which ends with a handle located outside. The drum itself is located on a frame with a return spring - it provides winding of the cable and the return of the starter to its original position. The starter motor is located on most models on the left, coaxial with the engine crankshaft.
When the cord is pulled sharply, the drum is given a slight forward movement so that its slots fall into the counter protrusions of the engine flywheel, and a rotational motion is transmitted to the flywheel and then to the crankshaft.
Access for servicing the carburetor and spark plug is by opening the top cover of the chainsaw.
There are also filter elements that are required to clean the air entering the carburetor. They require regular monitoring and cleaning - clogged filters often cause unstable engine operation or even inability to start it.
Many models have another external control element - adjusting the air damper of the carburetor (among motorists, the name "suction" usually appears). Such adjustment is sometimes necessary to facilitate cold starting of the engine, before it warms up, especially in low winter temperatures.
Choke control lever ("suction") A filter is located in the fuel tank to clean the mixture from suspended matter. There is no gas pump as such, except for the "primer" for preliminary manual pumping. Equalization of pressure in the tank and outside (so that no vacuum is created during fuel production) is provided by a special breather on the tank lid. His condition also requires a regular "lookout", since with a clogged breather, the chainsaw engine will constantly stall.
The layout of specific models of chainsaws, especially from different manufacturers, may have certain differences. However, the basic scheme for everyone remains roughly the same.
For greater clarity of information about the chainsaw device - a demo video:
Video: device and principle of operation of the chainsaw
What is evaluated when choosing a chainsaw?
What criteria for evaluating the tool should be paid special attention to when buying a chainsaw?
Planned purpose of the tool
To begin with, you should really imagine how much work will fall on the chainsaw, and with what regularity. The choice of the required model primarily depends on this.
- If there is a need to perform small work with a low frequency, for example, a one-time harvesting of firewood for a fireplace or barbecue, pruning trees, performing simple operations when processing wooden blanks, then you can limit yourself to purchasing an inexpensive model belonging to the class of household chainsaws.
The smallest and lightest - household-grade chainsaws (garden) These tools are usually designed for a very short continuous operation - within 20-30 minutes, and in total no more than 1.5-2 hours a day. But even in this mode, it is not recommended to exceed the threshold of 20 hours of its use within a month. The engine resource of the unit is small, usually within 400 hours of operation, and in order for the chainsaw to remain a "helper" as long as possible, it requires appropriate, very rational use.
The power of the power unit of a household chainsaw usually does not exceed 1.5 kW, and the cylinder volume is about 40 cm³. Household-grade saws, as a rule, have a very effective silencer, which reduces the noise effect from their operation to the minimum possible.
With all these disadvantages, these chainsaws have undeniable advantages. It is compact and lightweight. Such qualities allow almost everyone to use the instrument of a household class, regardless of the level of physical fitness of a person.
- The second class of chainsaws is semi-professional, or, as they are often called, "farm".
An example of a semi-professional class ("farm") chainsaw This is already a fairly serious tool that can withstand several hours of continuous operation (about 4 hours a day). The power of the power unit reaches 2 ÷ 2.5 kW, the volume of the cylinder is up to 60 cm³.
Such a chainsaw is quite suitable for any household needs, including for regular harvesting of firewood, dumping small trees and cutting them into logs, for performing a variety of construction operations. Most often, it is these saws that carpenters use when erecting log or. Such saws are also used in felling, but only for cleaning the trunks from knots and branches.
Prices and model line of ECHO chainsaws
chainsaw echo
The service life of such a chainsaw is usually about 1000 hours. For the "arsenal" of the owner of a country house who permanently resides in it, this is, most likely, the best option.
Of course, both the dimensions and the weight of the chainsaw are already much higher than that of household-class tools, and working with it will require some preparation.
- Finally, professional grade chainsaws. Their very name speaks for itself - they are designed for continuous work during the work shift - up to eight, or even more hours, under heavy loads.
The purchase of a professional-grade saw for a household looks completely redundant - there simply will not be loads adequate to its capabilities. These chainsaws always have a powerful power unit (3 kW) and above, with a cylinder volume of 60 to 90 cm³), a pronounced long tire that allows you to work with thick trunks, an "aggressive" shape and sharpening of the chain teeth, capable of sawing dense wood even on strong frost. The laid down motor resource is measured in thousands of hours.
A similar tool is used, as a rule, in felling. To use it for household needs is both unprofitable and inconvenient. Chainsaws of this class are always massive and dimensional, so they will not be good helpers in construction either. The operation of the saw is always accompanied by a fairly high level of noise: in a forest it is not essential, but for home use it is hardly suitable. In addition, working with a professional tool requires a very high physical fitness and appropriate qualifications of operators.
All other parameters for choosing a tool directly or indirectly depend on the belonging of the chainsaw to a particular class.
Types and parameters of bars and saw chains
Chainsaws are always equipped with standard tires. Their size (length) corresponds to the capabilities of the engine, and exceeding it is extremely dangerous - you can easily "kill" a drive that is not designed for excessively heavy loads.
The range of tire lengths - usually from 10 inches for a household tool to 18 - for a “farm” one (and a professional one is much longer). For each specific model, the manufacturer indicates the permissible dimensions. The use of shorter tires is, in principle, possible, although not strongly encouraged. Installation of longer ones that go beyond the upper limit of the range is strictly prohibited.
Some models of exactly the same horsepower and design may be sold with different tire lengths. Here you can focus on the nature of the proposed work - for pruning trees and shrubs, it is better to have a shorter tire, as it will be more convenient to work, and for sawing firewood it will be longer, taking into account the diameter of the logs.
Tires may also differ in design.
- In household and "farm" chainsaws, flat tires with low-profile chains are usually installed - they are more convenient to use with unloaded cuts and are least susceptible to the effect of kickback. True, all this is due to the reduced productivity of work.
- For work at height, it will be more convenient to use a lightweight tire. These are two metal plates with a polyamide spacer in the middle.
- Tires of professional chainsaws usually provide for the possibility of replacing the head with an end sprocket, since this unit, with constant use, the tool wears out the fastest. For domestic use, such a tire is not needed.
The main parameters of the bus are shown in the figure:
1 - the dimensions and position of the holes for the fasteners and the guide adjusting cotter pin must correspond to the model of the chainsaw.
2 - the width of the guide groove, which provides wedding movement, but at the same time - and reliable retention of the chain on the bar. The size must match the thickness of the chain shank.
3 - the pitch of the teeth of the end sprocket must correspond to those of the drive sprocket and the parameters of the chain.
4 - the length of the tire (L), which has already been mentioned above.
As a rule, the main parameters of the tire are not only indicated by the manufacturer in the passport, but also printed on the product itself:
The saw chain consists of the following elements:
1 and 2 - cutting links of the chain, alternately - left and right, having a certain angle of sharpening of the edges. Each of their cutting links has a protrusion - cut depth limiter (pos. 3)
4 - driving links, through which rotation is transmitted from the sprocket, and the shanks of which keep the chain on the tire from lateral displacement.
5 - connecting links.
6 - rivets that collect all the links into a single structure.
The main parameters of the circuit are shown in the diagram:
a is the value that determines the chain pitch, the distance between the first and third rivets, divided in half.
This value is standardized. In saws of small and medium power, that is, belonging to the household and "farm" class, chains are used with a pitch of 0.325 and 3/8 inches (this corresponds in metric terms to 8.255 and 9.525 millimeters). Such a strange at first glance gradation, using decimal and simple fractions, was chosen only to prevent confusion: 3/8 inch is equal to 0.375, which is easy to confuse with 0.325, and so random discrepancies are excluded.
Chains with a pitch of 0.325 are distinguished by the lowest vibration indicators during operation, but their performance is also low. The "golden mean" is 3/8 ", these are the chains found on most models of the middle class. Professional chainsaws are equipped with chains with a pitch of 0.404, and sometimes even ¾ ”with a high profile of teeth, often with special carbide attachments.
The second parameter of the chain is the thickness of the shank of the driving link (marked "b" in the diagram) - this value has already been mentioned above.
Finally, the length of the chain, if purchased separately, must match the size of the bar you have.
The shape of the cutting sections and their sharpening may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. So, there are two main types of tooth shape - chisel and chipper. However, there are many intermediate options.
However, such subtle knowledge is of interest only to experienced craftsmen - at the everyday level, the user will not feel much difference.
Another important note about the saw headset. It is common for chains and tires from the same manufacturer to be exclusively designed for the same brand. There are exceptions - but they are isolated and do not "make the weather." Thus, when choosing a saw, you should immediately assess the availability of service or the availability in the region of the possibility of purchasing spare parts for this model.
Evaluation of the convenience of working with a chainsaw
It will be completely meaningless to study the technical and operational characteristics of the chainsaw, if you do not "touch" it with your hands. This tool belongs to a group of increased danger, so it is extremely important that the chainsaw fits perfectly into the hand of the master. And the owner himself should easily, without the use of excessive efforts, direct the movement of the working saw bar.
For this, when choosing, the ergonomics of a particular model must be assessed.
- The chainsaw must be balanced - when fully assembled, its center of gravity must be positioned so that it is balanced when the tool is lifted by the front handle. This is very important - you do not have to spend additional efforts to keep the tool in a horizontal position, which means that work fatigue will not come so quickly.
- The weight of the chainsaw is also evaluated - the physical capabilities of people are different, and what seems easy to one for another can become an unbearable burden.
- Be sure to evaluate the location of the safety guard in front of the front handle. It happens that in some household models the distance between the working position of the flap and the handle is very small. It will not be easy for a person with a highly developed hand, and even wearing a working mitten, to hold the tool while cutting - any movement can cause emergency brake operation. Naturally, there will be no effective work in such conditions - it will turn into continuous torment, and may end up with overheating of the brake drum. This means that you will have to choose a larger model.
- The comfort of the hand on the rear control handle is assessed. Pressing the accelerator key, after triggering the safety key, should be comfortable for the fingers, without jamming. The switch for interrupting the ignition circuit must be available for instantaneous shutdown of the engine if the need arises.
- Even the smallest saw gives a considerable vibration load on the user's hands during operation - this causes rapid fatigue, and with frequent use of the tool, it can even lead to chronic joint diseases. Therefore, manufacturers try to minimize vibration effects by using special elastic or spring dampers between the body and the power unit and, in particular, between the body and the front handle of the chainsaw. This point is also worth focusing on.
- When choosing a chainsaw, you should definitely ask the seller to refuel and start it. It is necessary to make sure that the engine starts easily, without problems, and runs smoothly, without interruptions, at idle speed. You should try the "throttle response" of the motor, that is, its adequate response to pressing the throttle control key. At the same time, it is possible to make sure that the clutch unit is working properly (rotation on the chain at idle speed should not be transmitted), and the emergency brake (pushing the flap forward should almost instantly stop the chain).
When buying a saw, be sure to ask for its refueling and starting - to check the correct operation of all units - When the chainsaw is running, it is possible to assess the degree of its noise, as well as the direction of the exhaust of the exhaust combustion products - this will subsequently be important for choosing a workplace and the position of the tool, taking into account the direction of the wind or the location of doors (gates, windows, ventilation hoods) in the workshop.
Which brand should you choose?
And, finally, an important selection criterion is the manufacturer's warranty, the possibility of service, the purchase of replacement headset elements and spare parts.
The undisputed leaders in the production of chainsaws are STIHL and HUSQVARNA. The STIHL tool is more preferable from the point of view that in our area it is much easier to purchase a headset, consumables and spare parts for it. The products of MAKITA, JONSERED, OLEO MAC, HITACHI, ZENOAH, PARTNER, ECHO and a number of others enjoy unconditional authority. Chainsaws of the brands "Taiga", "Ural", "Interskol", "Zubr", "Energomash" are quite popular among Russian buyers.
Prices for popular chainsaws
Of course, you should buy a chainsaw only in a specialized store, where the originality of the product will be guaranteed and all the obligations of the manufacturer are confirmed. Alas, we have to admit that in this area there is a huge number of fakes, outwardly practically indistinguishable from real models and posing themselves only with individual "strokes". But in their work they have nothing to do with the original, neither in terms of their efficiency, nor in terms of the assigned resource, nor in ensuring proper safety.
Video - How to choose the right chainsaw
And finally, a few popular models from leading chainsaw manufacturers:
| Model | Illustration | Short description | Power, mass | average price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUSQVARNA 236 | Small, lightweight but powerful utility-grade saw. 14ʺ bar with 3 / 8ʺ chain pitch and 1.3 mm groove width. The volume of the tank is 0.3 liters. Optional centrifugal air cleaning system for carburetor | 1400 Wt 4.6 kg | 11,500 RUB | |
| Stihl MS 180 14 | One of the most popular models for personal use. Bar length 14ʺ, chain pitch 3/8, groove width 1.3 mm. Automatic chain lubrication system. The volume of the tank is 0.25 liters. | 1500 watts 3.9 kg | RUB 13,000 | |
| MAKITA EA3502S40B | Chainsaw for household needs. Bar length - 16ʺ, chain pitch and thickness - 3/8 - 1.3 mm. Fuel tank volume - 0.4 l | 1700 Wt 4.4 kg | RUB 16,700 | |
| ECHO CS-510-15 | Powerful saw of semi-professional, "farm" class of Japanese assembly. Bar length 15ʺ, chain 0.325 pitch and 1.5 mm wide. Enhanced safety system, economical fuel and oil consumption for light design features. Enhanced anti-vibration protection. | 2600 Wt 4.9 kg | RUB 28,100 | |
| ZUBR PBC-450 40P | Reliable and relatively inexpensive domestic-made chainsaw, semi-professional class. Bar 16ʺ, chain parameters - 0.325 - 1.5 mm. The volume of the tank is 0.55 liters. Electronic ignition system, air pre-cleaning system, self-developed saw headset, designed for durability without sharpening. | 1800 watts 6.4 kg | RUB 12,700 | |
| Hyundai X 560 | Chainsaw of a semi-professional class, with an elongated tire, which allows to cut down sufficiently thick trees and use it in construction work with log cabins. Bar length - 20ʺ, chain 0.325 - 1.5 mm. Engine decompressor system to make starting the unit easier. Relatively low price against the background of high performance | 3000 watts 5.2 kg | RUB 16,500 |
Video - Guide to choosing a chainsaw