11/07/2024
Chainsaws for Disaster Preparedness
We talk about saws a lot on the podcast. In our last recording, we talked about lessons learned from Hurricane Helene and, of course, the topic of saws came up along with other items. The podcast will be released late this week. In this post, I will attempt to highlight some of the items and know-how that will assist in running this equipment.
First off, the obvious saws are extremely helpful when it comes to clearing blow downs from storms. However, not all saws are created equal. Personally, we recommend a gas-powered chainsaw at a minimum of 50cc. This will provide sufficient power and will allow the use of an 18-20 inch bar that will work with most trees found in the northeast. Electric chainsaws have come a long way, but we do not believe they will offer enough in terms of power and battery life for some of the trees you may encounter. Next, we wouldn't buy a saw unless it is a Stihl or Husqvarna. These brands have the best track records. View a chainsaw as an investment in a potentially life-saving tool, similar to that of a defensive handgun. Take the Stihl 271, for example. It is not a top of the line model from Stihl but plenty sufficient for most. It runs about $500.
Second, supporting equipment. With running a gas-powered chainsaw comes the need for gas. And not just any gas but high octane (minimum of 89 at 10% ethanol). Additionally, the gas will need to be mixed with 2-cycle engine oil in a 50:1 radio for Stihls. Also, bar and chain oil is required to run these saws. Having these items stock picked ahead of time is important in a disaster scenario. Next is chain maintenance. Being able to properly sharpen a chainsaw is an art form and takes a lot of practice to get it right. Moral of the story is look up some videos on YouTube and practice. Of course, you will need files for this. Round for most chains and a flat file with raker gauge to keep those rackers in check. Spare chains are also a good idea to keep on hand. Also extremely important is keeping the scrench tool that came with the saw handy to make adjustments to the chain tension as well as remove the bar.
Also seen in the image above is an axe and a few wedges. These items are generally seen used for felling but can come in handy if you wind up pinching your bar and don't a spare chainsaw laying around. Lastly is protective equipment. I get it running a chainsaw with eye pro and chaps isn't cool but it could save your eyes, limbs, and possibly your life. With that said you don't want to become a casualty in a disaster when resources are tied up or nonexistent. Other PPE includes eye pro, gloves, and a hard hat if you have to cut anything that has a risk of falling.
Finally I keep all this equipment ready to go in a Stihl chainsaw hard case. This way I don't have to hunt everything down when I need it.
Like everything we talk about, if you don't know what you are doing find someone who does. This is extremely important when it comes to running a chainsaw because there is a risk personal and property damage. Like the firearm space, find a mentor or take a class but be prepared.
