How to Cut a Log Lengthwise with a Chainsaw

Cutting a log lengthwise with a chainsaw can be a challenging task if you don’t know the right steps to follow. However, with the help of this article, you’ll be able to complete this process easily and efficiently.

We’ve put together an ordered list of easy steps that you can use to cut a log lengthwise with a chainsaw.

How to Cut a Log Lengthwise with a Chainsaw

If you’re a woodwork enthusiast, you’ll be involved in all types of woodworking projects. You already know that different projects need different shapes and sizes of wood and it can include cutting a log lengthwise. Use the following tips to complete this process effectively and efficiently.

Supplies You’ll Need

• Log
• Chainsaw
• Respirator or Dust Mask
• Safety Goggles
• Permanent Marker
• Bungee Cord

Step 1: Choose Correct Chainsaw

There are different types of chainsaws available in the market. You’ll need to choose the right chainsaw for this project. The following are some common chainsaw types along with their uses.

Pocket Chainsaw

The pocket chainsaw comes with a sharp and long saw connected to two handles at both ends. You need to wrap this type of chainsaw around the log and move it back and forth to cut the target. 

As its a smaller chainsaw, it requires a lot of time and effort to cut logs. That’s why it’s suitable for small projects. However, it’s an affordable option and suitable for beginners to handle.

Pneumatic Chainsaw

This type of chain saw is most commonly used in big projects. Not only does it come with anti-overheating properties but it also saves a lot of fuel. The pneumatic chainsaw is the most suitable option to cut logs lengthwise in a straight line. 

Many of these saws have large, 20″ chainsaw blades to cut big logs.

On the downside, it’s very expensive and I don’t recommend you buy it if you’re rarely going to be doing projects like this.

Gas Powered Chainsaw

Gas chainsaws are one of the most versatile types, as you can use it to cut a log of any size. They come with extremely powerful engines which makes it a suitable option for everything from large logs to small branches. 

One of my favorite options are the best 50cc chainsaw. You can also buy chainsaws specifically designed for harder wood.

However, you’ll need to make sure that you wear safety equipment before using a gas-powered chainsaw because it’s quite bulky and generates a loud noise. It also requires a lot of strength and I recommend you not to use it if you’re planning to cut logs for the first time.

Note: Battery-powered and corded chainsaws are also available. Their working mechanism is pretty similar to gas-powered ones as they’re also heavy and powerful.

Pole Chain Saw

A pole chainsaw comes with a long handle and a single blade. It’s a hand-held saw and is mainly used to trim around the wood surfaces and shape the woodblocks. However, it can also be used for cutting small logs lengthwise.

Step 2: Ensure Safety

Once you have selected the chainsaw depending upon your needs, check the cleanliness and sharpness of the blade. Replace the blade if it’s not satisfactory so that you can cut the log easily and precisely. 

After that read the user’s manual of your selected machine and follow the instructions, especially those related to your safety. According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration, you should wear cut-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask.

A pair of cut resistance gloves not only will protect your hands, but they’ll also minimize the vibration of the chainsaw. In addition, goggles and a dust mask will protect your eyes and nose from sawdust. 

We also recommend you wear earbuds to protect your ears from the loud noise of the chainsaw. Make sure that you confine long hair and wear well-fitted clothes and a pair of boots for additional safety.

Step 3: Prepare Work Area

Clean your work area by removing potential obstacles that can interfere with your cutting process. Make sure that no object can contact the kickback zone of your chainsaw blade to avoid accidents and injuries. 

You should also choose a low-traffic area to cut your log so that you can focus more on making straight and precise cuts.

Note: If your log has branches, I recommend you get rid of them while preparing your work area. It’ll allow you to save time and concentrate only on the cutting process.

Step 4: Place Log Correctly

Placing your wood log correctly is one of the most critical steps to making a straight and precise cut. Set it lengthwise on a stable surface in the previously prepared area. Secure your log properly to make sure it’s immobilized and adequately supported.

You do not want to hold the log with your hands for this type of cut.

Step 5: Mark Log

Grab a permanent marker and mark the log where you need to make the cut. it’ll allow you to determine the right direction of the chainsaw blade. 

While you can use a ruler to mark a straight liner, I recommend you use a bungee cord and attach it to both ends of the log for this purpose to achieve better results.

Step 6: Adjust Standing Posture

Before you start cutting, pay attention to your standing posture. Make sure you keep the distance between your legs wider than your shoulder length.

It’ll limit the burden on your shoulders and your upper body will be able to support the chainsaw better. This posture will also protect you from the dangerous impacts of the chainsaw.

Step 7: Start Cutting

Turn your chainsaw on and hold it in both hands. Touch the bottom part of your chainsaw to the marked area at the edge of the log to make a notch and guide it all the way in. Keep the blade perpendicular (90 degrees angle) to the ground during this process to ensure a straight cut.

Don’t push and pull – your job is to guide the blade along the marked line and let the machine make the cut. 

Changing the position or angle of the blade will result in a less subtle and rough cut. It can also lead to a sudden shock that can cause unforeseen accidents.

Be patient and don’t rush the process. If you feel tired, turn your chainsaw off and take a break for a couple of minutes to regain your energy.

Step 8: Clean Chainsaw

Once you have cut your log lengthwise, clean your chainsaw blade using a soft towel to get rid of wood residue and dirt. Not only will it improve the longevity of your machine but it’ll also save you time whenever you need to use your chainsaw again.

Keep in mind that your chainsaw blade will be extremely hot right after the cutting process. Make sure that you let it cool down first before starting the cleaning process.

FAQs

Final Words

Using the steps mentioned in this guide, you can effectively cut logs, no matter how big they are, lengthwise with a chainsaw. Follow the instructions carefully, especially the ones about your safety, and you’ll be able to complete the process without spending too much time and energy.