6 / OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Beware of kickback!
There are two types of kickback that can be encountered with the improper use of a chainsaw or the
Cutters Edge Ventilation Saw. Both types are the result of an equal and opposite reaction that occurs
when the chain is suddenly stopped. This kickback movement is so fast that the operator cannot react
quickly enough to avoid serious injury.
ROTATIONAL KICKBACK is the violent reaction which occurs when the chain at the upper section of
the nose is suddenly stopped, thereby dangerously driving the bar nose in an upward arc towards the
operator.
LINEAR KICKBACK is a push reaction, which can occur with the saw blade buried in the cut when
the cut closes, pinching the chain along the top rails of the bar.
KICKBACK MAY OCCUR WHEN:
The upper section of the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object. The wood closes in
and pinches the saw chain in the cut.
Tip contact in some cases may cause a lightning-fast reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and
back towards the operator. Pinching the chain along the top of the guide bar may push the saw rapidly
back towards the operator. Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw, which
could result in serious personal injury.
Cutters Edge builds several safety devices into their saws, but you should not rely exclusively upon
these safety devices. As a ventilation saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting
jobs free from accident or injury:
1) With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise.
Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.
2) Keep a good firm grip on the saw with both hands when the engine is running. Use a firm grip with
thumbs and fingers encircling the chainsaw handles. A firm grip will help you reduce kickback and
maintain control of the saw. Don't let go.
3) Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let the kick- back
zone of the guide bar contact any obstructions while you are operating the saw.
4) For ventilation cutting, always cut at full RPMs.
5) Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height
6) Follow manufacturer's sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
7) Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer or the equivalent.
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