SAFETY INFORMATION
• Maintain a firm grip with only one hand on
the saw and position your body and arm to
allow you to resist kickback forces
(Fig. d). Kickback forces can be controlled by the
operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not
let go of the pruning saw.
• Do not overreach and do not cut above
shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended
tip contact and enables better control of the saw
in unexpected situations.
• Only use replacement bars and chains
specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect
replacement bars and chains may cause chain
breakage and/or kickback.
• Follow the manufacturer's sharpening and
maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased risk of injury.
Causes and operator prevention of pull-in (Fig. e):
WARNING
• Pull-in occurs when the chain on the bottom
of the bar is suddenly stopped or significantly
slowed when it is pinched, caught or encounters
a foreign object in the wood. The reaction of
the chain pulls the saw forward and may cause
the operator to lose control, which, in turn, may
cause serious or fatal injury.
• Pull-in usually occurs when the bumper of the
saw is not held securely against the branch or
limb and the chain is not rotating at full speed
before it contacts the wood.
• To reduce the risk of pull-in:
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
– Always start a cut with the chain rotating at full speed and with the bumper in contact with
the wood.
– Use caution when cutting small-size brush, branches and saplings which may easily catch
the chain, spring towards you or pull you off balance.
– Do not use the saw with a damaged or missing guard.
d
e
11
Bumper