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Chainsaw Gloves – Tips from a Professional

Chainsaws are powerful machines both used by homesteaders and professional loggers. Due to their sharp, powerful chain and chunks of wood flying around, the possibility of risk is always close whenever a chainsaw is used. Out of the personal protection for users, chainsaw gloves are of significant importance and will be discussed in this blog post.

Chainsaw gloves:

Chainsaw gloves are different than regular gloves and are recommended when using a chainsaw. These gloves protect your hands and fingers from likely accidents, keep them safe from flying chunks of wood, splinters, and other sharp objects. Furthermore, they provide a good grip, resist moisture and punctures, and dampen chainsaw vibrations.

Wearing chainsaw gloves gives you a better grip on your chainsaw and makes you feel more confident since you are less likely to get cut. You will be better able to focus on your job, which will keep you and those around you safe.

For understanding the importance of chainsaw gloves and their impact on the safety aspect of sawing, please scroll down to read in detail.

Do chainsaw gloves work?

Chainsaw gloves protect your hands and fingers from all kinds of accidents. If they make contact with the rotating chain, the outer cover tears and exposes the inner fibers. They will eventually jam the rotating chain and prevent them from causing any harm to your hand.

I recommend always work safely by wearing gloves with layered with protective fabric. If the chainsaw chain meets the glove, it automatically slashes the outer layer, exposing its inner fibers.

Afterward, the inner fibers of the fiber will end up encircling the chainsaw drive sprocket, hence creating a solid jam and preventing the chain from running. With this provision, you can drastically lessen the severity of an injury that could occur to your hand if you accidentally make contact with the cutting chain.

● What to do if your chainsaw gloves have been cut”

It is important to remember that after the chainsaw glove has been cut, the fibers will stop the chain, so you will have to replace them with new gloves. Always invest in gloves that are specially designed for chainsaws. Regular gloves are not able to stop the sharp chain in case it makes contact with your hands.

When the chainsaw is jammed, it must be disassembled to remove the fibers from the sprocket and chain. Otherwise, the chain will not rotate as it’s stuck in the guide bar.

● The left chainsaw glove is slightly different

Note that the left-handed glove has additional padding compared with right-handed gloves. This is because the left hand placed is near to the chain and stands at a greater risk. The top handle near the chain is made to be held by the left hand only. Hence, if you’re left-handed, you will have to adjust to this setting as this is the only way of safely handling the chainsaw.

Especially effective are the gloves that have Velcro on the wrist so they can be adjusted to fit perfectly once on. If your hands fall in between sizes, Velcro can help a lot to ensure that the gloves will fit well and comfortably every time.

What is the best type of gloves to use when operating a chainsaw?

While buying chainsaw gloves, always look out for those that have layered protection. Check the ANSI rating and what inner material is used. Thus inner material is what will stop the chainsaw in case of your hands hitting it.

To adjudge a chainsaw glove, always check if it follows any certification such as by ANSI (American National Standards Institute). ANSI rates the puncture and cut resistance of protective gloves. Apart from the certification, pay close attention to the inner fiber used in the glove for hand protection, such as Kevlar, goatskin, TPR, or Nylon. Kevlar is deemed the toughest amongst all.

● Youngstown Chainsaw safety gloves

Based on my experience and those from other professional loggers, I would recommend Youngstown safety gloves. These gloves are layered with Kevlar for the inner protection of your hand. Their comfort and fitting are appreciated by many chainsaw users. The inner Kevlar lining has stopped chainsaw chains and prevented several accidents.

Their only drawback, in my opinion, is their external cut resistance. It is a bit on the lower side. The outer material is a bit flimsy, which can get punctured by a really sharp object. However, the inner fabric lined with Kevlar is strong enough to save your hands from any injury. All in all, I would say that this particular model provides you with excellent protection and is affordable.

In comparison, I think that Husqvarna and Oregon gloves that are on the market come secondary in overall protection. Husqvarna does not show any certifications by ANSI, as far as I know. They are also less cost-effective, and I have seen several loggers having fitting issues.

What are chainsaw gloves used for?

Chainsaw gloves are an essential part of the chainsaw personal protective equipment (PPE) for hands and fingers. They reduce the chance of severe hand injuries that could result from using the chainsaw. They also provide a comfortable grip for the handling of the chainsaw.

Many loggers among us may believe that a chainsaw can safely be operated with nothing more than sunglasses as safety gear, but such a mindset does more to cause injury than to speed up or optimize productivity.

Although not the most common, but a serious risk while using chainsaws is hand injuries. You will be at risk of losing the chainsaw, falling or spewing debris, and even cutting your hands or fingers in some cases without these gloves.

Using gloves can ensure that you are on the safer side. As a result, moving chainsaws will stop in their tracks and tear up the back of the glove instead of your fingertips. Furthermore, since the palms and fingers of most gloves are reinforced, they provide even more anti-slip capability, making them extra effective. Chainsaw gloves should always be worn if you’re using a chainsaw for any purpose.

Will Kevlar stop a chainsaw?

A well-designed product containing Kevlar will stop a chainsaw. Kevlar is among the strongest fabrics and is used for bulletproof vests and helmets. Kevlar and other strong materials are used on the inside of chainsaw gloves. When hit with the rotating chain, those long Kevlar fibers will clog the chainsaw, and it will stop.

Kevlar is a popular material found in chainsaw gloves, where it is mainly used as an inner layer. Kevlar is much stronger than polyester or Nylon. In contact with a running saw, the outer layer will be cut easily. But the inner layer, made of Kevlar, wraps around the chainsaw’s drive sprocket and jams the chain instantaneously.

As this happens so quickly, it significantly limits the chance of injury to your hands. When it happens, the glove will be unusable and must be replaced. The chainsaw must be taken apart to remove all the fibers.

Kevlar is also often stitched into the seams and joints to give the gloves more strength.

Are chainsaw gloves anti-vibration?

Chainsaw gloves protect against vibrations. Chainsaw vibrations can not only be a source of discomfort, but prolonged exposure can result in hand-arm vibration syndrome, muscle weakness, and numbness.

Chainsaw gloves come with several vibration-dampening layers, along with excellent cut protection materials.

An essential feature of chainsaw gloves is their built-in vibration-reducing technology. The usage of a chainsaw involves a lot of vibration, which is challenging for any operator. Chainsaw vibrations put you at an increased risk of hand-arm vibration syndrome. This condition can weaken your muscles and often cause numbness and pain.

The vibration reduction feature from suitable chainsaw gloves makes it easier to use your chainsaw for a longer period without getting your hands tired. Safety is improved as it makes it less likely you make an error, or the chainsaw will fall off your hand or slip while in use.

What are chainsaw gloves made of?

The outer layer of a chainsaw glove is usually stitched from leather which provides puncture resistance. The inner layer is made of strong loose fibers from Kevlar, Nylon, goatskin, or another strong material. The outer layer can also be padded with additional materials like rubber to better grip and reduce vibrations.

In terms of construction, chainsaw gloves are composed of two main layers:

  • Outer layer: It protects the hand from external factors such as sharp objects, flying chunks of wood, environmental hazards, etc. The outer layer material is puncture-resistant. The outer layer is often enforced with a padding material such as rubber, which provides a superior grip and reduces vibrations.
  • Inner layer: The inner layer is the main glove fabric that gives the actual cut protection. If the rotating chain touches your hand and tears away the outer layer, the inner fabric strong and long fibers surround the sprocket and stop the chain. Thus keeping it from cutting your hand. The inner layer materials include Kevlar, Nylon, Polar, and TPR (thermoplastic rubber), or other strong materials.

In other parts of the glove, such as in the wrist section, Spandex is used. It is a stretchable material that provides comfort and makes it easier for you to wear the glove. On the inner portions of the glove, goatskin is used due to its ability to resist moisture.

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  1. Tina Richards says:

    Where can I purchase chainsaw gloves?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Chainsaw gloves are essential for safety when using a chainsaw. Look for those with layered protection, Kevlar inner material, and good fit. Youngstown gloves are recommended for their effectiveness and comfort. Stay safe!

  2. Peggy Rice says:

    This post was very informative, I learned a lot about chainsaw gloves.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Peggy! I’m glad you found the information about chainsaw gloves informative. It’s essential to prioritize safety when using such powerful tools. Stay safe!

  3. Alexa Kim says:

    What is the average lifespan of a pair of chainsaw gloves?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Chainsaw gloves typically have a lifespan of one year with regular use and should be replaced once they have been cut. Always use gloves specifically made for chainsaws for optimal safety.

  4. Isaiah Pearson says:

    I had no idea about the different materials used in chainsaw gloves, very interesting read.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Isaiah! It’s great to hear that you found the information on chainsaw gloves interesting. Safety is key when working with chainsaws, so it’s important to understand the different materials used for protection.

  5. Joanne Fowler says:

    Are there gloves that offer additional protection for the wrist area?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Chainsaw gloves offer additional wrist protection by providing layers of fabric to resist blades, making them essential for safety when using a chainsaw.

  6. Melissa Cook says:

    Do chainsaw gloves come in different colors or styles?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Chainsaw gloves are available in various colors and styles. However, the most important factor is the protective material used, like Kevlar, to ensure safety while using a chainsaw.

  7. Tammy Ruiz says:

    Safety should always come first, thank you for highlighting the importance of chainsaw gloves.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Tammy! I’m glad you found the information helpful. Stay safe out there with your chainsaw!

  8. Arron Gomez says:

    I feel more confident about using my chainsaw now that I know the importance of wearing gloves.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thanks for reading! I’m glad to hear that you feel more confident using your chainsaw with gloves. Safety first always! Happy sawing!

  9. Genesis Alexander says:

    Do chainsaw gloves come in different sizes?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, chainsaw gloves come in various sizes to ensure a proper fit. It is important to find the right size for optimal protection while operating a chainsaw.

  10. Jordan Ruiz says:

    I appreciate the detailed explanation of how chainsaw gloves work.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Jordan! I’m glad you found the explanation on chainsaw gloves helpful. Stay safe while using your chainsaw!

  11. Samuel Peck says:

    How do you know when it’s time to replace your chainsaw gloves?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Always replace chainsaw gloves if they have been cut to ensure continued safety. Consider Youngstown gloves for reliable protection. Stay safe and prioritize your well-being!

  12. Terry Lane says:

    Can chainsaw gloves protect against cold weather conditions?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, chainsaw gloves can protect against cold weather conditions by providing warmth and insulation while also ensuring hand safety. Long fibers of Kevlar will jam the chain if it makes contact with the rotating chain.

  13. Stephanie Obrien says:

    Can chainsaw gloves completely prevent all injuries?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Chainsaw gloves significantly reduce the risk of injuries while using a chainsaw. They provide protection, a good grip, and reduce vibrations. Always prioritize safety with the right gear.

  14. Brooklyn Turner says:

    What is the best brand of chainsaw gloves on the market?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Youngstown chainsaw gloves with Kevlar inner lining come highly recommended for optimal protection and comfort when operating a chainsaw. They provide superior grip, and safety features to prevent any accidents.

  15. Leslie Murphy says:

    Are there gloves specifically for left-handed users?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, there are gloves specifically designed for left-handed users. They have additional padding due to the left hand’s proximity to the chain. Adjusting to holding the top handle with the left hand is crucial.

  16. Christy Kelley says:

    Great information about the importance of wearing chainsaw gloves.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Christy! Safety is always a top priority when using a chainsaw, and gloves are a critical component. Stay safe out there!

  17. Floyd Grant says:

    This article has made me realize how risky it is to operate a chainsaw without proper gloves.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thanks for sharing your insights on chainsaw safety. I’m glad you found the article helpful! Stay safe and always remember to use proper protective gear when operating a chainsaw.

  18. Alfred Hale says:

    I never knew chainsaw gloves were so important for safety!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your insight, Alfred! Chainsaw gloves are indeed crucial for safety when operating a chainsaw. Stay safe out there!

  19. Louise Day says:

    I will make sure to invest in quality chainsaw gloves after reading this post.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      I’m glad you found the information helpful, Louise! Investing in quality chainsaw gloves is crucial for safety while operating a chainsaw. Stay safe out there!

  20. Brooklyn Little says:

    The video links provided in the post were very helpful in understanding chainsaw gloves better.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Brooklyn Little! I’m glad the video links helped you understand chainsaw gloves better. Stay safe and always prioritize personal protection when using a chainsaw.

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