"Mythbusters" Chainsaw chaps

[mattwisconsin]

\"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Tonight in class we put an old pair of chaps on an ash log and let the chainsaw down on it with equal force to what you might put on it in the case of it slipping. The saw ran about 2 seconds until the fibers jammed the saw and the log had about a 1/4 inch deep cut in it. Obviously flesh would cut much easier than wood and also offer a different pinch point than a hard log, but we kind of got the gist of how well they work.

I just thought this was an interesting thing to share since [to my knowledge] not many people have gotten to see them "in action."

Any other experiments on equipment, feel free to share.

 

[treehumper]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

First thing our chainsaw instructor did when we went out into the field was demonstrate how chaps work to minimize the damage a chainsaw can do. Very impressive.

 

[Crazy_Jimmy]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

I hit my leg doing a removal years ago with a pair of chaps on.At the time it was the only time I ever remember wearing them in a tree.Well a large top pushed the saw full throttle on to my knee cap.I didnt have a scratch on me.Im not sure what all it would have damaged but Im pretty sure im blessed to be still climbing.I didnt wear them again for years after that day ,but now I try to wear sips.

 

[SingleJack]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Interesting video: <font color="blue"> <u>Chainsaw Leg Protection Test</u> </font>

 

[AspenArbo]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

The 'threshold' for chaps is only manufactured to stop a chain when it's not at full rpm. Like when its on the downside after you would get done cutting. It doesn't surprise me that it took that long and cut in that far if the saw was at full throttle.
Perhaps it was the old chaps too that it let the saw to keep turning?

If you can afford it try a new pair and see how far you get.

Very Interesting

 

[mattwisconsin]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

I agree.. the oil and dirt buildup probably reduced the effectiveness of the chaps pretty drastically. It wasn't at full RPM, he tried to imitate the motion and power after you are done cutting, and say you bring the saw back to your thigh with it still running.

 

[oldoakman]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Another thing to remember is that loose fitting chaps do no good. The chain will grab and turn the chaps opening you up for direct chain to flesh contact. I have a pair of Forest Service chaps that fit snuggly and are not uncomfortable to wear.

 

[TANNER]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Ya that chainsaw leg protection test looked very promising! Made me think a little! I think that they was using pork 'ham'. They had a 660, looked like a 32in. bar and chain, not full throttle, but gassing it none the less and the chaps stopped the chain real good I thought!

But I guess the only way to do it would be like you did, do it yourself first hand. I wouldn't mind trying it on a lanyard.

 

[tcsafety]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Here are some pics from a civilian in Wyoming.

***WARNING - THIS IS NOT A HAM***

 

[tcsafety]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Here's number two.

***WARNING - IS AN ACTUAL CHAINSAW LEG INJURY***

 

[tcsafety]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Number three.

***WARNING - IS AN ACTUAL CHAINSAW LEG INJURY***

 

[tcsafety]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

Number four.

Ahhh...good drugs...

 

[tcsafety]

Re: \"Mythbusters\" Chainsaw chaps

And the Wyoming Doc who knew enough to have a life flight waiting to take him to Salt Lake for surgery. Patched him up pretty good, he's doing fine now.

I love back woods doctors. I don't know if he came in from a hunting trip or this is his normal attire. He did graduate at the top of his class.

When I see this pic I always think he's saying, "No chaps, huh? And they call me Bubba!"