Starting up your chainsaw can be dangerous enough. Actually running it, though, brings with it a whole slew of other dangers and that is why manufacturers recommend using protective gear. From the tip of your head down to the soles of your feet, you are going to need protection. The brand and size of the saw don’t matter; it’s always important to stay safe.

There are many ways to get hurt while cutting wood with a chainsaw. Branches can spring suddenly loose and whip toward you with a lot of speed and force. They can break bone, but your face is also at risk. The engine of the saw is very loud and can cause damage to your inner ear. Wear a black helmet with hearing defenses.

When you are on the ground and someone else is up in the tree, the value of the helmet increases. Branches, tools or other equipment can suddenly drop out of the tree, causing serious injury or maybe death. With the proper helmet on, though, the impact is spread out, leaving you with only a headache rather than permanent brain damage.

Maybe you use an Echo chainsaw and want to use that brand for the rest of your gear. Go ahead, but remember that it is not necessary. The gear, unlike chains, is interchangeable. You wear it on your body, so it can be used with any brand of saw.

After protecting your ears and head, take a look at your eyes. You have two choices. You can either use a full-face visor or just rely on goggles. Some woodcutters use both. The visor will protect your face and eyes from flying debris. Because a properly sharpened chainsaw will only create wood chips, not sawdust, the rather large lattice on the visor works just fine and still allows the operator to see clearly.

Last we have chaps and boots. The chaps or trousers are made out of special material that resists the cutting chain, offering some protection. Any good steel-toed boot will work to protect your feet.

What if you use a different type of saw? Will that make a difference? No, whether you are cutting with a McCulloch chainsaw or some other brand, the need for safety is the same. In fact, many jurisdictions require the use of safety gear when operating a chainsaw. Make sure you are obeying the law!