At Gustharts we know it can be difficult to navigate to the right professional or domestic product you need to complete the job.
We have compiled a list of questions and answers which are regularly asked about some of the most popular products we have for sale.
Choosing a chainsaw largely depends on the intended use and personal preference. Here are a few factors to consider when looking for a chainsaw:
Bar length: The bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood that the chainsaw can cut. A longer bar can cut larger wood, but it also makes the chainsaw heavier and more difficult to maneuver.
Engine power: The engine power affects the performance and cutting speed of the chainsaw. For heavy-duty tasks such as felling large trees, a more powerful engine is necessary.
Weight: A lightweight chainsaw is easier to handle and maneuver, but it may not have the power needed for heavy-duty tasks.
Features: Look for features such as anti-vibration handles, automatic oiling, and easy chain tensioning, which can make the chainsaw easier and safer to use.
A chainsaw is a powerful and portable tool that is used for cutting and pruning trees, as well as for cutting logs and branches. It has a motorized chain that rotates around a guide bar, allowing it to quickly and easily cut through wood.
Chainsaws are commonly used by arborists, loggers, and landscapers to trim and remove branches, fell trees, and cut logs into smaller pieces. They can also be used for construction purposes, such as cutting through wooden beams or framing.
It is important to use a chainsaw properly and with caution, as it can be dangerous if not handled correctly. It is recommended to wear protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses, and earplugs when operating a chainsaw.
The ideal chainsaw bar length depends on the intended use and the size of the wood you'll be cutting. A 14-inch or 16-inch chainsaw can be good for different types of jobs.
A 14-inch chainsaw is usually lighter and easier to maneuver, making it a good choice for smaller jobs such as pruning, limbing, and cutting small trees. It can also be easier to use for those who are less experienced with chainsaws.
On the other hand, a 16-inch chainsaw can cut larger logs and trees, making it a better choice for more heavy-duty tasks like felling medium-sized trees and cutting firewood. It may be heavier and more difficult to maneuver, but it can save time and effort when cutting through larger wood.
Overall, it's important to choose the chainsaw bar length that is appropriate for the task at hand. If you'll be working mostly on small branches and trees, a 14-inch chainsaw can be a good choice. If you'll be working on larger trees and logs, a 16-inch chainsaw may be more suitable.
The cubic centimeters (cc) of a chainsaw engine typically determine the power and performance of the tool. The appropriate cc for a chainsaw depends on the intended use and the size of the wood you'll be cutting.
For general use such as pruning and limbing, a chainsaw with a 30cc to 40cc engine should be sufficient. This type of chainsaw is usually lightweight, easy to maneuver, and can handle smaller jobs around the yard.
For more heavy-duty tasks such as felling medium-sized trees and cutting firewood, a chainsaw with an engine size between 40cc and 60cc is typically recommended. This type of chainsaw has more power and can cut through larger wood with ease.
For professional use such as forestry, logging, and tree removal, a chainsaw with an engine size over 60cc is usually necessary. These high-performance chainsaws are built to handle the toughest tasks and can cut through large trees and logs quickly and efficiently.
The best size chainsaw for cutting firewood depends on the size and type of wood you'll be cutting. In general, a chainsaw with a bar length between 16 to 20 inches and an engine size of 40cc to 60cc is suitable for cutting firewood.
A 16-inch chainsaw is usually sufficient for cutting small to medium-sized logs, while a 20-inch chainsaw can handle larger logs with ease. A chainsaw with an engine size between 40cc to 60cc provides enough power to cut through hardwood and softwood quickly and efficiently.
When cutting very hard wood, such as oak, it's important to use a chainsaw chain that is designed for the task. A semi-chisel or full-chisel chain with a low gauge and pitch is typically recommended for cutting very hard wood.
A semi-chisel chain has rounded teeth that are more durable and can handle occasional contact with dirt and rocks. This type of chain is suitable for cutting hardwood that is not too dirty or abrasive.
A full-chisel chain has square-cornered teeth that can cut through hardwood more quickly and efficiently. This type of chain is best for clean wood and should be used with care to avoid damage to the teeth.
In addition to the type of chain, the gauge and pitch also play a role in cutting very hard wood. A lower gauge and pitch chain can handle more stress and pressure, making it suitable for cutting very hard wood. For example, a 0.050 gauge and a 3/8 inch pitch chain is a good choice for cutting very hard wood.
Type A and Type C chainsaw trousers are designed to offer different levels of protection to the user.
Type A chainsaw trousers provide protection to the front of the legs only. They are suitable for use in situations where the operator is cutting timber or branches at or below waist height, where the risk of injury is limited to the front of the legs.
Type C chainsaw trousers offer all-around protection to the legs. They provide protection to the front and back of the legs, as well as the sides. They are suitable for use in situations where the operator is cutting timber or branches at any height, where the risk of injury can come from any direction.
Both types of chainsaw trousers typically feature multiple layers of protective material, such as Kevlar, to prevent the chainsaw from cutting through the fabric and injuring the user. They may also include additional features such as padding and reflective strips for added safety.
Type A chainsaw trousers provide protection for the front of the legs only. They are typically worn by groundworkers, tree surgeons and gardeners using a chainsaw who require protection to their legs.
Chainsaw pants, also known as chainsaw trousers, are specialized protective pants designed to reduce the risk of injury when operating a chainsaw. The pants are made with multiple layers of protective fabric, typically including ballistic nylon, Kevlar, and PVC-coated polyester. These materials are highly resistant to cuts, tears, and abrasions.
Chainsaw pants work by providing an extra layer of protection between the chainsaw and the wearer's legs in case of accidental contact. If the chainsaw comes into contact with the pants, the multiple layers of protective fabric will immediately get entangled with the saw's chain and sprocket, effectively stopping the chainsaw before it can reach the wearer's skin.
Chainsaw pants are essential safety gear for anyone who works with chainsaws, including professional arborists, loggers, and landscapers. Wearing chainsaw pants can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or even death when operating a chainsaw.
Chainsaw trousers are classified into different classes based on the level of protection they provide against chainsaw cuts. The two primary classes of chainsaw trousers are Class 1 and Class 2, and the main difference between them is the level of protection they offer.
Class 1 chainsaw trousers provide basic protection against chainsaw cuts and are suitable for use with a chainsaw with a maximum chain speed of 20 meters per second. Class 1 chainsaw trousers have a minimum of five layers of protective material in the front of each leg and are designed to withstand a chainsaw cut of up to 20 meters per second.
Class 2 chainsaw trousers provide a higher level of protection than Class 1 and are suitable for use with a chainsaw with a maximum chain speed of 24 meters per second. Class 2 chainsaw trousers have a minimum of seven layers of protective material in the front of each leg and are designed to withstand a chainsaw cut of up to 24 meters per second.
When using a chainsaw, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize the risk of injury. Here are the essential items of clothing and equipment to wear when using a chainsaw:
Chainsaw safety helmet: A safety helmet with a visor or safety glasses is essential to protect your head and face from flying debris, wood chips, and sawdust.
Chainsaw safety gloves: Chainsaw gloves have a protective layer on the back of the left hand to protect against the chainsaw's chain.
Chainsaw trousers/chaps: Chainsaw trousers or chaps are designed to protect your legs from accidental cuts by the chainsaw's chain. Chainsaw trousers are made of multiple layers of protective material, such as Kevlar, ballistic nylon, or PVC-coated polyester.
Chainsaw safety boots: Chainsaw safety boots are reinforced with steel toe caps and midsoles to protect against falling debris and accidental contact with the chainsaw.
Hearing protection: Chainsaws can generate high noise levels, which can damage your hearing over time. Therefore, it is recommended to wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing.
High-visibility clothing: Wearing high-visibility clothing can help ensure that you are visible to others when working near roadways or other areas where there may be vehicular traffic.
While chainsaw trousers are made of durable and tough materials, it is generally not recommended to wash them in a washing machine. The reason for this is that the materials used to make chainsaw trousers, such as Kevlar and ballistic nylon, can be damaged by the agitation and heat of a washing machine.
Instead, it is recommended to hand wash chainsaw trousers using a mild detergent and lukewarm water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener as these can also damage the protective properties of the fabric. Once the trousers are clean, hang them to air dry, away from direct heat or sunlight do not tumble dry the chainsaw trousers as this will damage the material.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the protective properties of the trousers are not compromised. Chainsaw trousers are a crucial piece of protective equipment, and proper care and maintenance are necessary to keep them in good condition and maintain their protective properties.
The lifespan of chainsaw trousers can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the materials used, the frequency of use, and the level of care and maintenance provided. However, with proper care and maintenance, chainsaw trousers can last for 35-50 washes or approx 2 years.
It is recommended to inspect chainsaw trousers regularly for signs of wear and damage, such as cuts, tears, or holes. If there are any visible signs of damage, the trousers should be replaced immediately.
Chainsaw trousers should also be cleaned and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure they remain effective. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of the trousers and ensure they provide adequate protection.
While a rock climbing harness may seem similar to a tree climbing harness, it is generally not recommended to use a rock climbing harness for tree climbing. The main reason for this is that rock climbing harnesses are designed for different types of movements and stresses than those encountered during tree climbing.
Tree climbing harnesses are specifically designed for the unique demands of tree climbing, with features such as wide leg loops, adjustable straps, and attachment points for tree climbing gear. These features provide the necessary support and flexibility required for safe and comfortable tree climbing.
Using a rock climbing harness for tree climbing can be risky as it may not provide the necessary support and flexibility required for safe and comfortable tree climbing. Additionally, it may not have attachment points for tree climbing gear, which could be necessary for safe climbing and working in a tree.
Therefore, it is recommended to use a tree climbing harness specifically designed for tree climbing to ensure optimal safety and comfort while climbing.
The lifespan of an arborist harness can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality of materials, frequency of use, and level of care and maintenance provided. However, with proper care and maintenance, an arborist harness can last for several years.
It is important to inspect the harness regularly for signs of wear and damage, such as frayed webbing or tears in the fabric. If there are any visible signs of damage, the harness should be replaced immediately.
Arborist harnesses should also be cleaned and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure they remain effective. This may include wiping down the harness with a damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasives that could damage the fabric or webbing, and storing the harness in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
The lifespan of an arborist harness can also depend on how often it is used. Harnesses that are used frequently may wear out more quickly than those that are used less often. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for inspecting and replacing the harness to ensure it provides adequate protection.
A tree climbing harness is a type of specialized harness designed for the unique demands of tree climbing. It is typically called a "tree climbing harness" or an "arborist harness." These terms are often used interchangeably to describe the same type of harness.
Tree climbing harnesses are specifically designed for the needs of arborists, tree climbers, and other professionals who work at height in trees. They typically have wide leg loops for added support and comfort, adjustable straps for a customized fit, and multiple attachment points for tree climbing gear such as lanyards, ascenders, and descenders.
Tree climbing harnesses come in a variety of styles and designs, including full-body harnesses and sit harnesses. The choice of harness will depend on the specific needs of the climber, the type of climbing being done, and personal preferences. It is important to choose a harness that is designed specifically for tree climbing and to ensure it is properly fitted and maintained for optimal safety and comfort.
Arborists use a variety of tools and equipment to climb trees safely and effectively. Here are some of the most common tools and equipment used by arborists for tree climbing:
Harness: A specialized tree climbing harness is used to attach the climber to the rope and support their weight.
Climbing rope: A dynamic climbing rope is used to climb up and down the tree. The rope is usually attached to a branch or other anchor point at the top of the tree and then run through various climbing devices as the climber ascends or descends.
Carabiners: These are used to connect different parts of the climbing system together, such as the rope to the harness or different pieces of equipment to the harness.
Ascenders: These are devices that attach to the rope and allow the climber to ascend the rope more easily by sliding up the rope while preventing sliding down.
Descenders: These are devices that allow the climber to descend the rope more safely and slowly.
Lanyards: These are short lengths of rope or webbing that are used to connect the climber to the tree. They are used to support the climber while working in the tree and to provide additional safety in case of a fall.
Helmets: A helmet is worn to protect the climber's head from falling debris or other hazards.
Spikes: Climbing spikes or "spurs" are used to climb trees with thick bark. They are typically not used on live trees, as they can cause damage to the tree.
Chainsaw boots are a type of protective footwear designed for chainsaw operators. They are specifically designed to provide protection to the feet and legs from chainsaw cuts and other hazards associated with operating a chainsaw.
Chainsaw boots are typically made with a combination of materials that provide both durability and protection. The outer layer is often made of leather, which is tough and durable, while the inner layer may be made of Kevlar or other cut-resistant materials that provide protection against chainsaw cuts.
In addition to chainsaw protection, chainsaw boots may also have other safety features such as slip-resistant soles to provide traction on uneven or slippery surfaces, steel toe caps for protection against impact and compression.
It is important to choose chainsaw boots that meet the appropriate safety standards and provide the necessary level of protection for the chainsaw being used. It is also important to properly maintain and inspect the boots regularly to ensure they continue to provide adequate protection.
Class 1 chainsaw boots are a type of protective footwear that is designed to provide protection to the feet and legs of chainsaw operators. These boots meet the requirements of the European standard EN 381-3 for chainsaw protective boots and are designed to protect against chainsaw cuts at a speed of up to 20 meters per second.
Class 1 chainsaw boots provide a minimum level of protection for chainsaw operators and are suitable for use with smaller chainsaws with a maximum bar length of 16 inches. They are typically made with a combination of materials, such as leather and Kevlar, to provide protection against cuts and abrasions.
In addition to chainsaw protection, Class 1 chainsaw boots also provide other safety features such as slip-resistant soles, steel toe caps for protection against impact and compression.
It is important to choose chainsaw boots that meet the appropriate safety standards and provide the necessary level of protection for the chainsaw being used. It is also important to properly maintain and inspect the boots regularly to ensure they continue to provide adequate protection.
The main difference between Class 1 and Class 2 chainsaw boots is the level of protection they provide against chainsaw cuts. Class 1 boots provide a minimum level of protection, while Class 2 boots provide a higher level of protection.
Class 1 chainsaw boots are designed to provide protection against chainsaw cuts at a speed of up to 20 meters per second. They are suitable for use with smaller chainsaws with a maximum bar length of 16 inches. Class 1 boots are made with a combination of materials such as leather and Kevlar to provide protection against cuts and abrasions.
Class 2 chainsaw boots, on the other hand, are designed to provide protection against chainsaw cuts at a higher speed of up to 24 meters per second. They are suitable for use with larger chainsaws with a maximum bar length of 20 inches. Class 2 boots provide a higher level of protection than Class 1 boots and may be made with additional layers of protective material.
Yes, Protective boots with good grip and protective guarding at the front vamp and instep are a common feature in chainsaw boots. These boots are designed to provide protection against chainsaw cuts and other hazards associated with working in forestry and are required by the HSE.
The protective guarding at the front vamp and instep is typically made of steel or other materials that provide protection against impact and compression. This feature helps to prevent injuries to the feet and toes in the event of a chainsaw kickback or other impact.
In addition to protective guarding, chainsaw boots with good grip typically have slip-resistant soles to provide traction on uneven or slippery surfaces. This feature helps to prevent slips and falls, which can also lead to injuries.
Chaisaw boots are required to meet BS EN ISO 17249 which is a European standard that specifies the requirements for safety footwear designed for professional use in forestry. This standard covers both chainsaw boots and other types of forestry footwear.
Chainsaw boots that meet the requirements of BS EN ISO 17249 are designed to provide protection against chainsaw cuts at a speed of up to 24 meters per second. They are typically made with a combination of materials such as leather, Kevlar, and other cut-resistant materials to provide protection against cuts and abrasions.
Helmets meeting BS EN 397 or BS EN 14052 standards are suitable for general ground work in forestry, including felling and processing, they may not be adequate for tree climbing operations.
According to the Arboricultural and Forestry Advisory Group (AFAG), a mountaineering style helmet complying with BS EN 12492 is recommended for tree climbing operations. This standard specifies requirements for helmets designed for mountaineering and climbing activities, including impact protection, retention system strength, and stability.
A mountaineering style helmet typically has a hard outer shell and a foam liner for impact protection. It also includes a retention system, such as a chin strap, to keep the helmet in place during falls or impacts. Additionally, the helmet may have ventilation to help keep the head cool during physical exertion.
EN 12492 is a European standard that specifies requirements and test methods for helmets intended for use in mountaineering and climbing activities. This standard covers helmets that provide protection against impacts from above and from the side, as well as penetration and retention systems that keep the helmet in place during a fall.
Gustharts stock a range of EN 12492 helmets by Petzl, Stihl, Protos, Kask and Arbpro.
The specific equipment used for climbing trees may vary depending on the type of climbing you plan to do and the type of tree you will be climbing. Here are some common equipment used for tree climbing:
Climbing Harness: This is a specialized harness that fits around the waist and legs and allows you to attach yourself to a climbing rope or other safety system.
Climbing Rope: This is typically a static or dynamic rope that is used to climb the tree and to attach yourself to a safety system. The rope can be anchored to the tree using various techniques.
Ascenders: These are devices that are attached to the climbing rope and allow you to ascend the rope more easily than pulling yourself up manually.
Descenders: These are devices that allow you to safely descend the rope, often with the help of a brake.
Carabiners: These are used to attach various pieces of equipment to your harness or the climbing rope.
Climbing spikes: These are metal spikes that are attached to your boots and used to climb up the tree by digging into the bark.
Tree-climbing ropes: These ropes are specially designed for tree climbing and are usually made from a combination of materials, including nylon, polyester, and aramid fibers.
Helmets: A helmet is essential for protecting your head while climbing trees. A climbing helmet should be lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Single Rope Technique (SRT): This technique uses a single rope attached to the climber's harness and anchored at the top of the tree. The climber ascends and descends the rope using specialized devices, such as ascenders and descenders.
Doubled Rope Technique (DRT): In this technique, two ropes are used, one for climbing and the other as a safety backup. The climber ascends and descends the climbing rope while the backup rope provides added safety.
Stationary Rope Technique (SRT): This technique uses a fixed rope that is anchored at the top of the tree and left in place. The climber uses specialized devices, such as ascenders and descenders, to move up and down the rope.
Moving Rope Technique (MRT): This technique involves using a rope that is anchored at the top of the tree and moved as the climber ascends. The rope is passed through a series of pulleys or blocks, allowing the climber to move up and down the rope.
