Quick Answer
To cut firewood into specific lengths, use a chainsaw with a sharp chain and follow proper safety precautions. Start by felling the tree, then buck the logs into manageable sections, and finally split them to achieve the desired length.
Choosing the Right Chainsaw Chain
When cutting firewood, it’s essential to use a chainsaw chain with a specific tooth count. For firewood production, a chain with 3/8" pitch and 36-40 teeth per inch (TPI) is ideal. This tooth count provides a good balance between cutting speed and chip size, making it easier to split the wood. Additionally, a chain with a semi-chisel or full-chisel tooth design will help to reduce kickback and improve cutting performance.
Felling and Bucking Techniques
To fell a tree safely and efficiently, identify the direction of the lean and aim to cut on the uphill side. Cut a notch on the side you want the tree to fall, about one-third of the way through the trunk. Make a backcut on the opposite side, about two inches above the notch, and the tree should fall in the desired direction. Next, use a chainsaw to buck the logs into manageable sections, typically 16-20 inches in length. This will make it easier to split the wood and reduce waste.
Splitting and Seasoning Firewood
Once the logs are bucked, split them into firewood using a maul or splitting axe. Aim to split the wood into pieces that are around 4-6 inches in length, as this will provide the best balance between burn time and BTU content. Different species of wood have varying BTU content, with hardwoods like oak and maple typically having a higher BTU content than softwoods like pine and spruce. Seasoning firewood for at least six months will also help to improve its BTU content and make it easier to burn. Regularly turning the wood will help to speed up the seasoning process and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth.
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