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Chain Saws
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Chain saws vary most significantly by the length of the blade, which is known as the bar. Saws with bars 8 to 15 inches long usually come with 1-horsepower motors. These are best used for cutting small logs and thin tree limbs 12 inches in diameter or less. They're also very lightweight ranging from 8 to 10 pounds. This cuts down on the fatigue of the do-it-yourselfer and makes them easier to operate. Saws with bars 15 to 20 inches long have motors that range up to 3 horsepower. Anything 12-inches and over, plus this added power, makes it great to use for cutting big logs for the fireplace or big trees. Unless you're a lumberjack, a 20-inch bar is the longest you would ever use for heavy-duty cutting. |
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Gas chain saws are popular for their versatility and power. These typically have a two-cycle motor that requires you to mix gas and oil to run. The hardest part is starting and maintaining them, but it's well worth it for large jobs. |
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Electric chain saws come in both corded and cordless models to meet the needs of do-it-yourselfers. They are simple to start, require next to no maintenance, and weigh much less than a gas-powered one. However, what you gain in convenience you lose in power. |
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