TIPS on keeping your chain sharp........

A sharp chain will produce large wood chips when cutting. It will easily cut through any log. When you begin to see smoke from the chain, or when you notice that the chips are more like sawdust, it's time to sharpen the chain.

Dirt is the most common enemy. Dirt will cause a chain to dull faster than anything but concrete, or steel (nails). Painted boards will also cause a chain to dull quickly.

Use a log lift when cutting trees on the ground. This will help prevent the blade from making contact with the ground. A log lift will help keep the chain sharp longer than any other tool you have.

Remove as much bark as possible before cutting, as it's the bark that holds the dirt.

Bark also causes a huge amount of ash to build up in the fireplace. Remove any remaining bark before hauling the wood into the house.

Tree bark also holds the greatest share of the wood boring insects. Removing the bark will prevent an insect infestation in the home, keep your chain sharp longer, and make very little mess when hauling in the firewood.

The smallest amount of dirt or sand retained in the bark will dull a chain very quickly. This is one of the reasons why sawmills remove the bark before ever attempting to make the first cut.

Joel

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