Time for Chainsaw Chaps

[scodemike]

I think I figured out the right choice and it is not the one with a zipper. The zipper may tend to hold the chap leg such that instead of binding up in the saw, it is going to cut through to the leg.

 

[TomSeller]

I have the apron style but like the idea of the wrap around.

 

[CalG]

Just a heads up. IF anyone thinks that a pair of chaps will "protect" them from injury in the case of a high speed saw blade coming down on a leg, that is JUST NOT THE CASE.

I wear chaps when I saw. Especially when bucking in the yard, because I tend to cross the saw in front of me between cuts. But my only expectation is that the chaps will limit the severity of the injury in the case of any inadvertent contact with an slowing blade not under power.

I've, cut pants, scratched the flesh on my thigh, as well as cut shoe leather.

My chaps have scarfs and nicks as well. But I do not expect them to "prevent" injury under any conditions. I just hope for the best and use precautions.

Heck, A running saw will go through a steel core climbing line so fast as to not allow any reaction from the climber wielding the saw. Chaps are even less robust. Nothing is better than keeping your wits about you!

 

[sidecarist]

Question, now that I'm almost healed re; chaps. I am looking at the Forester wrap around style chap, but they have 3 styles. One has the straps on the back, another wraps around and they use Velcro and the last one has a zipper and velcro over that.

I kind of like the zipper with the velcro overlay. What are your thought's? Forester Chain saw Chaps - Apron, Wrap Around, Zip Chaps - Chainsaw Pants

I have the forester apron wrap velcro chaps and like them. The velcro is easier than a zipper and less likely to get fouled up. I had a chance to actually try both and the full velcro chaps were faster to put on. I figured that anything I could do to make it easier on me would reduce the excuses to not wear them...

Glad you're healing up!

 

[cat fever]

OK-OK,

I am guilty of cutting firewood for decades with only earplugs, boots/gloves and safety glasses. After reading this thread I am going to get me some chaps for cutting the wood. Heat will not be a problem since I cut at 9000 plus foot level in the fall. Sometimes there is snow here and there.

 

[Citydude]

I usually wear a shirt and jeans with the boots, gloves and glasses. Were only at 5000 feet. Sorry couldn't help myself....

 

[cat fever]

I usually wear a shirt and jeans with the boots, gloves and glasses. Were only at 5000 feet. Sorry couldn't help myself....

After typing and reading what I wrote; I just knew somebody was going to come back like you did.:laughing:

 

[JRobyn]

I am a big fan of the Labonvilles. They wrap around, but only from the calf down, so they are a bit cooler to wear. All of their "fasteners" are plastic snap-buckles with an adjustable nylon strap. Easy on, easy off. Just a waist buckle, 2 ankle buckles and 1 back-of-thigh buckle for each leg. Easy on is IMPORTANT to encourage one to USE them for even quick jobs.

I keep meaning to look at the labels on mine to confirm they are Labonvilles. I got them from Baileys, but I think I only paid maybe $70 for them. Guess they were on sale or have just increased in price? Mine are like these -

 

[dougtrr2]

I won't speak to specific brand of chaps but the best thing I bought was a set of suspenders for my chaps. I just started wearing them a few years ago and it is a training thing to get in the habit of putting them on EVERY time I break out the saws. I have had a few close calls, but nothing serious but I finally woke up and got the chaps.


Doug in SW IA

 

[scodemike]

So I placed my order this morning for the Forester Chaps Wrap around velcro, Suspender's and gloves. I didn't go for the helmet/muffs since I already have safety glasses and a pair of muffs. All my tree work is with downed trees from storms.

Looking forward to having these and maybe have a little more safety than currently.