Saw something new

[J_T]

I vote with Kevin50% and D Fredrick 100% on a fast running saw with lots of power it won't bind Try it when no one is looking and see what you think

[Timburr]

Do you folks cut the compression wood first and finish with the tension I'm asking 'cos i'm curious.
 Professional loggers read the log first. If the log sits across a hollow the compression timber is on the top, if astride a ridge tension is on the top. As a logger, I try not to put the saw in a position where it will bind...a lot of unnecessary time wasted, but invariably we all get caught on the hop. In this situation, when the kerf is closing, the saw is pulled out and back in again to relieve the kerf. Once, maybe twice is all that is required, not a continual 'sawing' action.
You guys may think you are sawing quicker by 'sawing' the saw...stopwatch time yourselves...you may or not gain a couple of secs. And a flushed face. A guide to how quick the wood is being cut is the amount of chips exhausted. I know this is obvious, but sometimes overlooked.

Were THE guys racing for a wager?

Tim

[beenthere]

I usually cut the wood under compression first, and look for the slightest indication it is closing (or if in deep enough slip a wedge in behind the 'stopped' saw blade in the kerf). Then try to read if there is any fore or aft motion that may pop the log at me or preferrably away from me. Read it wrong and one may get the log in their lap. I follow up with the wood under tension being careful in all cases that the chain stays out of the dirt.

[stumpy]

I always viewed "swaing" with a chainsaw was an indication of inexperience. I agree with Kevin, and Timburr makes a good point that there maybe rare ocasions that call for it to open the kerf.
What I've always taught my son and nephews is "there are two things that cut a log, RPM's and sharpness of the chain". If yoy keep it sharp, and apply just enough pressure to achieve high RPM's, you'll do just fine. If ya have to force the saw, somethings wrong.

[tony_marks]

ep ive used a saw like that. but it was after the chain was dull ,and i was just finishinbg the day or something,so i was [usually futily] trying to get thru and wait til my back quit hurtin to sharpen it rite that nite.