Chain saws are ideal tools for cutting fallen trees and large branches. But figuring out where to start and how to complete the work safely is a challenge. Of course, safety is the most important consideration when using an automatic chainsaw.

Use the top or bottom of the barbell and chain to cut, but avoid the recoil area. Avoid using the "backlash area" of the saw blade for cutting. Otherwise, it will cause the saw to kick back and cause damage to the chain saw.

Cutting with a chain at the bottom of the bar is the most common and natural cutting method. The saw can be pulled slightly and is easy to control by maintaining a firm grip. Cutting from the underside of the branch requires you to cut from the top of the rebar. This is a bit disturbing at first because the saw is pushing at you. However, it is safe as long as you are fully prepared and follow all other precautions.

However, there's one spot on the bar that you should carefully avoid. This spot, called the kickback zone, is the top half of the bar's tip. If the kickback zone comes in contact with something while the chain is moving, the saw will kick up and back toward you. That's why modern chain saws are equipped with a chain brake designed to stop the chain if a kickback occurs.