15
HOLDING THE UNIT
• Firmly encircle the handles with the thumbs and fingers (Fig. 3).
This will help reduce the chance of losing control of the unit if
kickback occurs. Any grip with thumbs and fingers on the same
side of the handles is dangerous (Fig. 4).
• Always grip the unit firmly with both hands when the unit is
running.
• Hold the front handle with the left hand. Keep the left arm
straight to help withstand potential kickback.
• Hold the rear handle with the right hand. Keep the right arm
slightly bent.
• Use these hand placements whether the operator is left-handed
or right-handed. This will help keep the operator slightly to the
left of the unit and out of the direct line of the chain saw if
kickback occurs (Fig. 5 and Fig. 6).
• Stand in a stable position with feet apart and firmly planted.
• Do not cut above shoulder height. Do not overreach.
CUTTING PROCEDURE BASICS
1. Start the unit. Refer to Starting Instructions in the Starting and
Stopping section.
2. Accelerate the unit to full speed before cutting.
3. Press the unit against the wood and maintain a firm, steady
pressure through most of the cut. Do not put pressure on the
unit at the end of the cut.
4. Maintain a steady speed throughout the cut. Keep the unit
running through the entire cut.
5. Do not try to force the saw through the wood. Allow the saw
chain to do the cutting. Exert only light pressure. Forcing the cut
could result in damage to the unit or personal injury.
6. Release the throttle control as soon as the cut is completed.
Allow the saw chain to come to a complete stop. The saw chain,
guide bar and motor may experience unnecessary wear if the
unit is run without a cutting load.
WARNING:
Always hold the front handle with the left
hand and the rear handle with the right hand. Always keep
all body parts to the left of the chain line.
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Correct Stance
Fig. 6
Correct Grip
Thumbs Below the Handles
Incorrect Grip
Thumb
Above the
Handle
Chain Line
Incorrect Stance
Chain Line
