History of the chainsaw
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Fig. 1 - Hand sawing with the forest supervisor watching ...
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Fig. 2 - One of the first one-man chainsaws
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Photos: Archives WSL
The first chainsaws were developed in the 1920s. This innovation revolutionized the forestry industry, dramatically increasing timber production—similar to how the transition from axes to hand saws had transformed the trade centuries earlier.
The history of forest work is deeply intertwined with human civilization. For thousands of years, forests have shaped and been shaped by societies, evolving from mysterious, untamed places into valuable sources of timber. Over time, they became more organized, serving not only economic purposes but also playing roles in environmental protection and recreation.
For many centuries, the job of a lumberjack was considered one of the lowest in society. However, this changed with the introduction of the modern chainsaw. It elevated the status of loggers, giving them greater respect and self-worth. No longer just laborers, they became skilled operators of powerful machines.
From the Axe to the Saw
The axe is the oldest tool used for cutting wood. Its design evolved through different eras, reflecting cultural advancements. It remained a key tool for felling trees well into the 19th century.
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Around 5000 B.C., Germanic tribes created the first saw by carving small teeth into curved flints. While it's unclear if these early tools were used for woodwork, they marked an important step in tool development. Later, with the discovery of copper, bronze was used to make axes and saws. Axes were not only used for cutting trees but also for warfare. By 750 B.C., iron replaced bronze as the main material, but saws continued to be made of bronze for many years. These tools were more commonly used by artisans, doctors, and surgeons rather than in the forests.
As technology advanced, so did the tools used in forestry. The evolution from the axe to the hand saw, and eventually to the motorized chainsaw, reflects the broader changes in human society and industrial progress. Each advancement brought new possibilities, reshaping not only the way people worked but also their place in the world.