Can You Use a Chainsaw as a Hedge Trimmer?

If you’re like most people, you probably think that a chainsaw is only good for one thing: cutting down trees. However, what you may not know is that a chainsaw can also be used as a hedge trimmer. In fact, using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer can actually be quite convenient, especially if you have a lot of hedges to trim.

Why Use a Chainsaw as a Hedge Trimmer?

There are actually several reasons why you might want to use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer.

  • First of all, it’s much faster than using traditional hedge trimmers. If you have a lot of hedges to trim, using a chainsaw will save you a lot of time.
  • Another reason to use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer is that it can help you get into tight spaces. If you have hedges that are growing close to your house or other structures, it can be difficult to trim them with traditional hedge trimmers. However, because chainsaws are so compact, they can easily maneuver in tight spaces and get the job done quickly.
  • Lastly, using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer can also be more convenient than using traditional hedge trimmers. This is because you won’t have to worry about cordless battery life or finding an outlet to plug in your trimmer. As long as you have gas for your chainsaw, you’ll be good to go.

How to Use a Chainsaw as a Hedge Trimmer

Now that we’ve gone over some of the reasons why you might want to use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer, let’s talk about how to actually do it. Using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer is actually quite simple and only requires two things: safety gear and the right type of saw chain.

Wearing Safety Gear

When it comes to safety gear, it’s important to wear gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection when using any type of power saw. This is because the saw can kick back debris that could harm your hands, eyes, or ears.

In addition, it’s also important to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes when operating any type of power saw. By wearing the proper safety gear, you can help reduce the risk of injury while using your chainsaw. 

Choosing the Right Chain Saw

As for the right type of saw chain, you’ll want to choose one that has small teeth and is designed for cutting through wood quickly. This type of saw chain is known as an aggressive chain and will help make quick work of even the thickest hedges. 

Once you have the proper safety gear and saw chain, follow these steps to use your chainsaw as a hedge trimmer: 

Using Chain Saw as a Hedge Trimmer – Step-by-step Guide

  1. Start by putting on your safety gear—gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
  2. Next, start your chainsaw and let it warm up for 30 seconds or so before beginning to cut.
  3. Then, holding the saw with both hands (one hand on the front handle and one hand on the rear handle), slowly guide the saw through the hedge while letting the teeth do the work—don’t force it! 
  4. Once you’ve made your way through the entire hedge, turn off the chainsaw and allow it to cool down for at least 5 minutes before putting it away.

And that’s all there is to it! Using a chain saw as a hedge trimmer may seem daunting at first but with proper safety gear and the right type of chain saw it’s actually quite simple and can be quite convenient—not to mention time-saving!

FAQs

Q: Do I need any special training to use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer?

A: No, you don’t need any special training to use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer. However, it’s always a good idea to read the instruction manual that came with your saw before using it. This way you can familiarize yourself with the saw and learn about any safety features it may have.

Q: What are some of the risks of using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer?

A: As with any power saw, there are always risks associated with using them. Some of the risks associated with using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer include kickback, which can occur if the saw hits a branch or object in the hedge, and flying debris, which can cause harm to your eyes or ears.

Q: What are some of the benefits of using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer?

A: Some of the benefits of using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer include the fact that you don’t have to worry about cordless battery life or finding an outlet to plug in your trimmer. As long as you have gas for your chainsaw, you’ll be good to go. In addition, chainsaws are great for cutting through thick hedges quickly and easily.

Q: Is it okay to use an aggressive chain saw for trimming hedges?

A: Yes, it’s perfectly fine to use an aggressive chain saw for trimming hedges. In fact, it’s often the best option as these types of saws are designed to quickly and easily cut through wood.

Final Words

So, can you use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer? The answer is yes, you can use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer with the right blade. Be sure to take all safety precautions when using power tools! 

There are a few things to consider before using a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer, that we’ve provided above. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the type of job you need to do. We hope that this article has been helpful to you. 

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to help you find the right product for your needs.