OUTDOORS In the market for a chain saw? Here's how to cut through the clutter

When picking a model, keep in mind how hard the chain saw is going to be worked.
By REBECCA SLOAN
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
Still searching for the perfect Father's Day gift?
Maybe it's time dad had a brand-new chain saw.
"With all the recent wind and rains, lots of people are buying chain saws to take care of fallen trees," said Karol Sudziak, lawn and garden manager at Sears in Niles.
Since the average shopper probably doesn't know much about chain saws, here's the lowdown:
GAS OR ELECTRIC?
Chain saws come in two categories: gas and electric.
"Most people don't buy electric chainsaws because the cord can be a hassle," said Phil Lucik, lawn and garden associate at The Home Depot in Niles. "We recommend electric chain saws only for trimming small trees or shrubs around the house."
Joe Svarny, manager of Dean's Outdoor Power Equipment in Niles, cited another disadvantage to electric chain saws.
"A chain saw with an electric engine is short-lived compared to a chain saw with a gas engine," Svarny said.
Gas engines also have more power than electric engines, which means gas chain saws can easily fell mighty trees.
"The size of tree you want to cut down will determine the size chain saw you will want to buy," Sudziak said.
WHAT SIZE IS BEST?
Chain-saw size is determined by bar length -- or the length of the chain that wraps around the saw blade.
For example, a chain saw with a 14-inch bar can cut down a tree that's 28 inches in diameter, Lucik said, while a chain saw with a 22-inch bar is considered commercial grade and is used by professional tree cutters.
"A chain saw with a 16- or 18-inch bar has enough power for the average homeowner," Svarny said. "Most people choose these sizes because they can be used for both trimming and felling."
The size of the chain saw's engine also helps determine its power. A very small 2-cubic centimeter engine will fell a tree that's 10-to-12-inches in diameter, while a large, 44-cc engine can handle a mighty oak, Lucik said. In case you're wondering, 20 cubic centimeters equals about one horsepower.
Gas-powered chain saws have two-cycle engines, or engines that require a mix of gas and oil for proper operation. Mixing the gas and oil incorrectly often leads to engine troubles.
"Usually people can't get the engine started if they've mixed the gas and oil incorrectly," Sudziak said.
MAINTENANCE
All chain saws require routine maintenance. "The chain should be lubricated after every use," Sudziak said. Bar and chain oil, which sells for about $6 a quart, will do the job just fine.
Many chain saws have built-in bar and chain oil reservoirs that release oil to the bar and chain while the chain saw is operating, Lucik said.
Besides proper lubrication, the bar and chain must also be kept clean and free of built-up wood shavings and dirt. The engine's spark plugs and air filter must also be changed regularly, and gas should not be kept in the engine for more than 30 days or it will lead to poor running conditions, Svarny said.
Chain saw blades will need sharpening from time to time. "This is a job some people can learn to do themselves, but it can be tricky, so if you have trouble doing it yourself, take it to a professional," Svarny said.
With average use and proper care, a chain saw can last a lifetime, Lucik said.
COST
Chain saws cost from about $100 to $300. Popular brands include: Husqvarna, Echo, Stihl, Homelite, John Deere, Poulan and Craftsman.
XAdditional source: www.diy.com