Essential Chainsaw Accessories

Owning a chainsaw simplifies large yard projects. Having all the right chainsaw accessories will keep your saw working optimally, and ensure your safety with each use. From bars to safety gear, a guide to all of your chainsaw needs can help when shopping for parts.

Chainsaw Bars and Chains

The guide bar is a long, rounded bar made from wear-resistant alloy steel. The bar has edged slots to guide the car across the surface that it cuts. They come in 16-36 inch lengths depending on the duty of the saw.

The cutting chain resembles that of a bicycle chain. It each segment holds small teeth called cutters. They are extremely sharp and should never be handled without gloves.

Cutting chains offer varying pitches and gauges. Filing of the depth gauges is essential to operating the saw. They guide the cutters as far as how deep they cut.

Chainsaw sharpening and filing accessories

Sharpening and filing accessories are essential for maintaining the life of your saw. Sharpening your chainsaw on a regular bases will provide the best cuts and prevent injury.

Purchasing a clam-shelled filing kit is a great investment. It offers everything you need for your chainsaw sharpening needs:

• File handles
• Files guides
• Round files
• Flat files for depth

You will also want a depth gauge guide for when you file your gauge. Filing a gauge is easy and should be done every third or fourth sharpening.

Safety chainsaw accessories

Proper safety should always come first when using a chainsaw. Buying the essential safety accessories will help you avoid serious accidents. Items you should consider buying for safety include:

• Helmet system or safety glasses
• Hearing protection
• Gloves
• Body gear

If you choose not to purchase body gear, it is important to wear fitted clothing while working with a chainsaw.

Other chainsaw accessories

A well-maintained chainsaw can last a lifetime. In order to keep your chainsaw running, you may need to periodically replace parts. These parts include:

• Sprockets
• Clutch
• Air filter
• Muffler

Always read your chainsaw operations manual for specific requirements for accessories. Your operations manual also explains how to replace chainsaw parts. Never repair or replace chainsaw parts without wearing safety gear. Always make sure that you use the proper parts for your chainsaw model.

If you follow these tips, your chainsaw will not only be more efficient and safe, but will give you many years of trouble-free operation for all your projects.