Chainsaw Compression Release?

hayden · Jan 16, 2002

I've got two Husky's, a 50 and a 262pro. The 50 is easy to pull. The 262 is real nasty. The biggest problem is that when it snaps back, which is does when you don't quite overcome the compression stroke, it really janks the hell out of your hand. It's been downright painfull a couple of times. I'd love to have compression release on the 262.

Unfortunately, I can't say where the model you are considering fits relative to the two Husky models I have, but my guess is that if they offer compression release, it's for a good reason.

For $40 I'd just do it.

MChalkley · Jan 16, 2002

Hayden - That's the biggest problem I have with the Stihl 044. I often wish it had a compression release for just that reason. To have that thing snatch the handle out of your hand on a really cold day can just about make you want to pack it up and go home! /w3tcompact/icons/frown.gif

cp1969 · Jan 16, 2002

The 55 Rancher doesn't have compression release? My 55 (plain, not rancher) does.

mbjacobs · Jan 16, 2002

Thanks everyone for the info. It looks like compression release on a chainsaw is like HST on a tractor - not absolutely necessary but sure nice. My little 011 Stihl is still going strong after 16 years so $40 extra is only $2.50 a year. There, I've talked myself into it.

hayden · Jan 17, 2002

Yup, that's what happens.

Do you have any sense where the Stihl model in question fits into the size/compression range? I'm not familiar with Stihl's line other than knowing bigger numbers mean bigger saws, which is pretty easy to figure out. On 044's a pretty big machine, right? Do you think the model in question (was it an 033?) will have the problem?

dmccarty · Jan 17, 2002

mbajacobs,

I have a Stihl 046 with compression release. I think I would be very hard pressed to start that bad boy without using the release. /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif

The 026 may be different of course.

If you can crank the 026 with out the release then you will be fine BUT if that puppy is hard to pull get the release. Its a real ouch with you pull the cord and your hand slaps into the saw. BTDT. /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif

Good Luck,
Dan McCarty

jdkid · Jan 17, 2002

Hi ya's
what size is a 044 stihl??i have a dolmar 120si 69 cc with no compression release it has got me a time or two (pulling back the cord) but that come from not starting it the right way .i an a bit shocked in hearing the swinging bar tho and saying this cuts it down ..i take it ya drop starting one hand on cross bar other on cord and trigger locked ???for a start 99%of books state don't do this, mosting logging crews frown on this style ..on the ground with one foot though the back handle or if wanting to start standing place back handle between legs(tip for the day on this one start on ground for frist start of the day kick back is a bit painfull)ether way you are incontrol of bar at all times
catch ya
JD Kid

erich · Jan 17, 2002

I have a Stihl 036Pro with the compression release and wouldn't be without it. I severed some tendons and some nerves in my right hand a few years back and although I healed up pretty good when the rope snaps back it is really painful. I owe alot to that doctor I must say.

Eric

Boondox · Jan 18, 2002

Eric -- I did the same thing on my left hand a few years back...with a bow saw! When using power equipment my mind is all about safety, but when I grabbed that bow saw I didn't even think of gloves. Likewise, my surgeon did an excellent job. Not sure, but the five pounds of coffee I gave him might have helped wake him up for the early morning operation! /w3tcompact/icons/wink.gif

Pete

MChalkley · Jan 18, 2002

hayden - The 044 is a pretty good sized saw - I wouldn't want to use one any bigger for more than an hour or so. It's an awfully good saw. I've had it for close to 10 years and it's always done great. I'd like to have an 046 with compression release, though.