Like JJ, I don't use a blade guard. Certainly the absence of a blade guard does make it a bit more risky but, in all my years of going without one, I have had only a bruised shin or two. That was due to hitting sizable chunks of wood that I had already
cut and them being kicked back.
Taking off a blade guard can actually increase safety. A blade guard is extremely awkward to work around. The frustration, constant movement to get in the right position to
cut, the resultant increased fatigue can be distracting. Moreover, there is an increased risk of kickback in that it is harder to place the blade in the optimum position when cutting down trees. Now, I am not recommending taking off the blade guard if you feel more comfortable with it on but, I much prefer it off.
One more thing. My big Echo brushcutter requires the use of a full harness which really minimizes any danger of being
cut by the blade.
Dave in NC