3FS 300, FS 350, FS 400, FS 450, FS 480
English / USA
Warning!
Because a clearing saw is 
a high-speed, fast-cutting 
power tool, special safety 
precautions must be 
observed to reduce the risk of personal 
injury.
It is important that you 
read, fully understand and 
observe the following 
safety precautions and 
warnings. Read the 
owner's manual and the 
safety instructions periodically. Careless 
or improper use of any clearing saw may 
cause serious or fatal injury.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how 
to operate your clearing saw. Observe 
all applicable local safety regulations, 
standards and ordinances.
!Warning!
Do not lend or rent your clearing saw 
without the owner's manual. Be sure that 
anyone using your clearing saw 
understands the information contained 
in this manual.
!Warning!
The use of any clearing saw may be 
hazardous. If the rotating cutting tool 
comes in contact with your body, it will 
cut you. When it comes in contact with 
solid foreign objects such as rocks or 
bits of metal, it may fling them directly or 
by ricochet in the direction of bystanders 
or the operator.
Striking such objects could damage the 
cutting attachment and may cause 
blades to crack, chip or break. 
STIHL does not recommend the use of 
rigid blades when cutting in stony areas. 
Thrown objects or damaged blades may 
result in serious or fatal injury to the 
operator or bystanders.
!Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use a 
clearing saw. Bystanders, especially 
children, and animals should not be 
allowed in the area where a clearing saw 
is in use.
Never let the clearing saw run 
unattended.
Most of these safety precautions and 
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL 
clearing saws. Different models may 
have different parts and controls. See 
the appropriate section of your owner's 
manual for a description of the controls 
and function of the parts of your model 
clearing saw.
Safe use of a clearing saw involves
1. the operator
2. the clearing saw
3. the use of the clearing saw.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition 
and mental health and not under the 
influence of any substance (drugs, 
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision, 
dexterity or judgement. Do not operate a 
clearing saw when you are fatigued.
Be alert – if you get tired while operating 
your clearing saw, take a break. 
Tiredness may result in loss of control. 
Working with any clearing saw can be 
strenuous. If you have any condition that 
might be aggravated by strenuous work, 
check with your doctor before operating 
a clearing saw. 
Safety Precautions and 
Working Techniques