Very quickly, turners learn that one of the difficulties in woodturning is acquiring wood large enough for faceplate turning. It is both difficult and expensive. However, there is often a good supply of local timber in the form of logs if the means to manage it are available. A chainsaw makes log handling and processing into blanks easily accessible.
One of the first things to know about a chainsaw is how dangerous it is. A chainsaw is one of the most dangerous power tools in the carpenter’s arsenal, if not the most dangerous. The working part of the saw is a bar covered with a movable cutting chain that is designed for cutting hardwood. As such, you won’t even stop for meat. Plus, it’s a simple matter to catch the tip of the bar in such a way that it causes the saw to either kick back or jump towards the user with amazing speed and power. That being said, there are plenty of people who use a chainsaw day in and day out with no problem. Although the user is at risk when using any power tool, in this case it is a good idea to obtain instructions from an experienced user before operating the saw on his own.
Chainsaws come in a variety of types and sizes, but for most turners, there are a few simple considerations to keep in mind when shopping. Saws are sized based on power and bar length. As a general rule subject to all the dangers of generalities, a sixteen inch bar will suffice for most turners and twelve will be a bit short at some point in a woodturning career. Another general rule of thumb is to buy the most powerful motor you can afford. It is easier for the user and the saw taking on the weight is also good for the user.
The power source will be electric or gasoline. Gasoline is more convenient outside the shop, but there is a danger of carbon monoxide when running an internal combustion engine indoors, not to mention the enormous noise from the engine. Electric saws require heavy extension cords and generally cut slower than gas saws, but they are quieter and get the job done.
The turner must learn to sharpen and maintain the saw. Chains dull quickly if they hit rocks or nails into wood, and sometimes hit the ground when cutting logs to length. A chain that hits the ground is dull and needs to be sharpened. This is not difficult to learn and sharpening files are cheap. If the saw is maintained with the bar oiled and properly mixed gas saw fuel, a routine maintenance check by a good repairman or dealer is all it takes to prolong the life of the saw.
Chainsaws are not to be feared for the turner and will make obtaining blanks and the like much easier. A good instruction can make all the difference in the added pleasure of getting your own wood for turning wood.
