First scrounge with my first chain saw

[ambull01]

Definitely got my attention the first time it happened to me, and I'll ditto the "scared me a bit" part, too. Sure reminds one about why one holds the saw kind of to the side when sawing

Yep, before that I did all sorts of stupid crap with chainsaws (i.e. used it on a ladder, sitting it a tree, lifted above the shoulders, etc). When I did the kickback test I was probably around half throttle, bar tip was around 12" above the ground, and I did it so the kickback was away from my body. That sucker was still extremely violent.

I concur with @Jags , a limp wrist hold is a definite No Go. Ditto with a thumbless grip too. I don't white knuckle grip it but I grab and hold my saw with utmost respect.

 

[OldLumberKid]

This is the reason that I often repeat - "hold the saw like it is gonna try and kill you".

That's a good one for all newcomers to keep in the back of mind.

 

[OldLumberKid]

When I got my first chainsaw I underestimated how quickly chains can become dull. It can happen with the slightest touch of the chain on dirt, a small bit of metal in the wood, or even dirty wood.. Watch the chips the saw is throwing - they should be large chips, not sawdust. Cutting with a sharp chain is worlds apart form cutting with a dull chain. You'll want to learn how to sharpen it yourself, which is easy with a $10 file and guide, plus some online videos.

Yes, very quickly!

 

[CTYank]

Your best piece of safety equipment is right between your ears, once you fully "program" it.
For starters:
1. Always keep all body parts out of the plane of the chain. You should be able to read any graphics on the bar.
2. No "monkey grip" of the left hand; keep thumb opposed to fingers. Keep your left hand on the front handle, period.
3. Keep left elbow locked straight.
4. Keep a firm grip with your right hand.
5. Always cut wtith chain at full speed, lest it grab & kick.
6. Keep chain sharp; touch it often with a file. A/r, learn how.
7. Keep plastic wedges handy & use them. Pinching chain on top of bar can send it straight back at you.
8. Keep your feet spread for stability & expect the unexpected.
9. Inspect saw often, and take action to make things right.

PPE is a good backup to that. The above can keep it from getting damaged. "Belt & suspenders" approach works great, since there is no "silver bullet"..

 

[Hills Hoard]

nice score...!

 

[CountryBoy19]

I'm only dealing with a 16inch 38cc saw, so it's easily manageable, yet still highly respected.

IMHO, small saws are more dangerous than large saws because it takes much less energy to fully rotate a short saw up to the point that it hits you; small saws also rev higher than large saws (more chain speed = more rotational speed on the saw/bar when kickback does happen)

 

[ambull01]

Your best piece of safety equipment is right between your ears, once you fully "program" it.
For starters:
1. Always keep all body parts out of the plane of the chain. You should be able to read any graphics on the bar.
2. No "monkey grip" of the left hand; keep thumb opposed to fingers. Keep your left hand on the front handle, period.
3. Keep left elbow locked straight.
4. Keep a firm grip with your right hand.
5. Always cut wtith chain at full speed, lest it grab & kick.
6. Keep chain sharp; touch it often with a file. A/r, learn how.
7. Keep plastic wedges handy & use them. Pinching chain on top of bar can send it straight back at you.
8. Keep your feet spread for stability & expect the unexpected.
9. Inspect saw often, and take action to make things right.

PPE is a good backup to that. The above can keep it from getting damaged. "Belt & suspenders" approach works great, since there is no "silver bullet"..

Are you the same CTYank for Arborist? That's some great safety pointers.