I am relatively new to using a chainsaw so when it comes to safety, thought I should err on the side of caution.
I also like to err on the side of economy and when I started shopping for safety gear, I was a bit dismayed.
I needed a helmet for cutting and trimming trees, ear and eye protection and cutting pants. Luckily, I have a pair of green patch boots, so I was okay with footwear and for ear and eye protection. But I also wondered about hand protection?
Upon consulting with an expert, he suggested a woodcutter safety kit as it contains all the essentials for basic chainsaw work. The bonus was the price was right - significantly less than buying items separately.
He also said that cutting gloves are bulky and may be a hindrance unless you are doing some serious wood cutting. With a few horror stories, added by my partner about how jeans don’t give much protection, the kit (especially the cutting pants) is my new favourite woodcutting cool-tool and fashion go-to.
Stihl’s woodcutter safety kit contains a helmet with built in ear protection and face shield, safety glasses and cutting pants with straps adjustable to fit.
Other brands like Husqvarna also carry woodcutter safety kits, check with a chainsaw dealer near you.