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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 WSLÂ Â
The first chainsaws were developed in the 1920s. The introduction of motorized tools revolutionized timber production, much like how the non-motorized saw once replaced the axe. This shift marked a major turning point in forestry and industrial efficiency.
The history of forest work is deeply intertwined with human civilization. For thousands of years, forests have played a vital role in shaping societies, providing resources, and influencing cultural development. Over time, what was once a mysterious and dangerous place became a reliable source of timber and other natural products.
For centuries, the lumberjack’s profession was considered lowly, often seen as menial labor. However, the arrival of the modern chainsaw changed everything. It not only improved productivity but also elevated the social status of those working in the field, transforming them into skilled operators and respected professionals.
From the Axe to the Saw
The axe is one of the oldest tools used by humans for cutting wood. Its design has evolved over millennia, reflecting changes in culture and technology. For many centuries, it remained the primary tool for felling trees before being gradually replaced by more advanced methods.
Around 5000 B.C., early Germanic tribes created the first saws by carving small teeth into flint blades. While their exact use remains uncertain, these early tools may have been used for woodworking. With the discovery of copper, bronze was later used to make both axes and saws. These tools were essential not only for cutting trees but also for warfare and daily life.
By 750 B.C., iron began to replace bronze as the main material for tools. However, saws continued to be made from bronze for a long time. They were more commonly used by artisans, doctors, and even surgeons rather than in the forests. This highlights the versatility and importance of early saw technology across different fields of human activity.