The Chainsaw can be the most dangerous item you take 4wding but it can also be one of the handiest. From cutting up a tree blocking a track, to cutting some firewood to get the campfire ready for that delicious Camp Oven Roast.

There are many popular makes and models of chainsaws around, Stihl being one of the more common as well as Husqvarna taking the honours in our eyes as the 2 main players. We chose the Stihl 230C for its size, power and overall reliability. Being one of the smaller saw’s in Stihl’s range assists in making it easy to use as well as packing it in a 4wd. We chose to purchase the multipurpose fit Stihl Chainsaw case made of rugged hard plastic to help keep the saw in A1 condition, as well as protecting the rest of the gear from the saw.

The case is designed for a large range of Stihl chainsaws, ours being on the smaller end of the scale so there was ample room to carry the normal chainsaw bar cover and a spare chain in the case. A Spare chain can be handy as you only need to touch the ground once or twice or hit a nail etc and your saw’s chain can be next to useless.

Chainsaws are dangerous.

We strongly recommend anyone who is looking at purchasing a saw to complete a 2 day chainsaw course. These are often organised as a short course at some TAFEs as well as through your local 4wd club. When buying a saw, don’t forget to factor in some safety gear. Namely, eyes, ears, head and legs. We chose a good pair of Chainsaw Chaps, a thick strong material that you wear over your normal pants. We also purchased a Husqvarna Helmet, mask and muff set. We prefer the mesh type mask from the older perspex type as it doesn’t have the reflectiveness of Perspex as well as allowing a little more ventilation, chain sawing is hot work!

For more chainsaw tips or if you’re in the market for a new saw or safety gear, why not give Western Mowers and Chainsaws in Sydney’s Suburb of Toongabbie a call on 02 9631 1696 or see their site: http://www.chainsawshop.com.au/.