The evolution of chainsaw is an interesting story that has gone through several stages of development over many decades. From crude early models to high powered precision tools of today, let’s take a look at how chainsaw technology has progressed through the years.
Early Models
One of the earliest documented chainsaw models was invented in 1830 by Benztown, Connecticut resident Jacob Bauer. His chainsaw consisted of a basic motor and chain drive attached to a wooden rod for handling. Power was provided by twin cranks rotated by the operator. While very crude by today’s standards, it demonstrated the basic concepts of a motorized chain cutting tool.
In the late 1800s, other inventors further experimented with chainsaw concepts. Canadian-American Daniel Galouye created the Galouye Saw Knife in 1903 which had a free running saw blade clutch driven by a single crank. Motor power was still not used however.
First Gasoline Models
The true beginnings of modern Chainsaws Started with the introduction of gasoline engines to power the cutting chains. In 1907, Oregon engineer Carl G. Johnson patented the firstchainsaw design incorporating a gasoline motor. However, it lacked many modern features and chainsaw technology was still in early experimental phases.
Two Germans are credited with creating more full-featured gasoline chainsaw prototypes in the late 1920s – Andreas Stihl and Max Meier. Their chainsaws utilized two-stroke gasoline engines mounted vertically above the guide bar. This basic configuration became the standard layout for modern chainsaws. However, their prototypes were still handmade and not ready for mass production yet.
Post-War Advancements
Following World War 2, chainsaw technology advanced rapidly as industrial applications increased demand. In 1948, Clinton Engines introduced the Clinton saw which was one of the first commercial chainsaw designs targeted for lumber and forestry uses. Features like chain brakes, anti-kickback chains and automatic oiling systems were now being added.
In 1951, the Makita company started manufacturing chainsaws based on Stihl’s designs from the 1920s. They produced the very first mass-produced chainsaw aimed at the consumer and DIY homeowner market – the 3301. Meanwhile, Dolmar released chainsaws with new air filter systems to improve engine performance.
Modern Era Developments
Through the 1960s and 70s, chainsaw engineering continued refining designs while meeting new emission and safety standards. Features like reduced emissions, automatic oiling pumps, anti-vibration mounts and improved ergonomics became standard. New materials like composites and plastics also replaced metal components, reducing weight.
Professional logging segment chainsaws grew increasingly powerful, often exceeding 5 horsepower output. Homeowner models remained in the 1-3 horsepower range suitable for smaller tasks. Electronic ignition systems and fuel injection supplanted mechanical carburetors starting in the 1980s as well.
Today’s High-Tech Models
Current chainsaw models feature some of the most advanced engineering seen yet. Computerized fuel injection paired with electronic ignition precisely regulates air-fuel ratios and spark timing. Low-emission two-stroke and four-stroke engines meet stringent EPA standards while maintaining excellent power-to-weight ratios.
Materials science has allowed lighter yet stronger composite plastics and alloys in critical areas like guide bars, chains, casings and handles. Sophisticated vibration dampening systems and ergonomic designs maximize operator comfort during long periods of use. Auto-tensioning chains, easy pull starting and effective anti-kickback chains further enhance safety and usability.
Powerful professional logging saws now exceed 7 horsepower while sub-compact suburban models stay below 2 horsepower. With over a century of refinement, the chainsaw remains an indispensable modern power tool thanks to continuous technological advancement. Its evolution exemplifies the constant progress of mechanical engineering.
Types of Chainsaws
There are several main types and sizes of chainsaws currently available on the market, each suited for different cutting applications:
– Professional Logging Saws: Intended for intensive professional tree felling and timber harvesting. Displacements range from 5-8+ HP with cutting widths up to 25 inches.
– Farm & Ranch Saws: Durable mid-sized saws around 3-5 HP suitable for agricultural use like land clearing. Usually have 18-20 inch bars.
– Contractor Saws: Jack-of-all-trades saws around 3-4 HP for versatile construction/landscaping use. Good power with 16-18 inch bars.
– Homeowner Saws: Very popular “backyard” sized saws below 3 HP. Lighter weight but still able to tackle tree/limb work. 12-16 inch bars.
– Mini/Sub-Compact Saws: Most compact size for occasional home/garden use like pruning. Under 2 HP with 10-12 inch bars.
– Pole Saws: Long extension arm attached to a smaller chainsaw motor unit, for elevated tree work without a ladder.
Choosing the right type of chainsaw depends on intended uses and cutting capacities desired. Larger saws are more durable but also heavier, while compact models focus on lightweight portability.
Chainsaw Safety Features
As chainsaws are inherently dangerous power tools when misused, manufacturers have steadily added multiple built-in safety features over time:
– Chain Brakes: Automatically stop the chain instantly when triggered, commonly by rear hand guard contact.
– Anti-Kickback Hand Guards: Curved hand guards behind the bar tip bump into wood to prevent bar/chain kickback toward operator.
– Lever-Operated On/Off Switches: Allow saw to be stopped immediately with a finger rather than full hand release.
– Dual Trigger Switches: Require two hand levers to be squeezed simultaneously to start the saw for added trigger control.
– Low Kickback Chains: Specially designed drive links that are less likely to grab and bounce back toward the user.
– Comfort Handles: Anti-vibration mounts on handles and rear handle grip areas improve control and reduce hand/arm fatigue.
– Operator’s Manuals: Provide important safety operating instructions and proper maintenance procedures.
Quality manufacturers ensure these features are rigorously tested and calibrated to help minimize chances of injury when used as directed. Proper safety attire is also recommended.