Milwaukee M18 FUEL HATCHET FHS8 User manual

OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Cat. No.
M18 FHS8
M18 FUEL™ HATCHET™ 8" (203 MM) PRUNING SAW
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand operator's manual.

2
GENERAL POWER TOOL
SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING
Read all safety warnings, instruc-
-
•
•Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or
dark areas invite accidents.
•
tions provided with this power tool. Failure to
follow all instructions listed below may result in
Save all
warnings and instructions for future reference.
The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to your
mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-oper-
ated (cordless) power tool.
WORK AREA SAFETY
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Do not operate power tools in explosive atmo-
liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
Keep children and bystanders away while operating
a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
PERSONAL SAFETY
•Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never
modify the plug in any way. Do not use any
adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power
tools.
reduce risk of electric shock.
•Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded
surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and
refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric
shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
•Do not expose power tools to rain or wet condi-
tions. Water entering a power tool will increase the
risk of electric shock.
•Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for
carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool.
Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or
moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase
the risk of electric shock.
•When operating a power tool outdoors, use an ex-
tension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord
suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
•
•Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool. Do
not use a power tool while you are tired or under
A
moment of inattention while operating power tools
may result in serious personal injury.
•Use personal protective equipment. Always
wear eye protection. Protective equipment such
as a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat or
hearing protection used for appropriate conditions
will reduce personal injuries.
•Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch
source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying
the tool.
the switch or energising power tools that have the
switch on invites accidents.
POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
•Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power
tool for your application. The correct power tool
will do the job better and safer at the rate for which
it was designed.
•Remove any adjusting key or wrench before
turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left
attached to a rotating part of the power tool may
result in personal injury.
•Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. This enables better control
of the power tool in unexpected situations.
•
•If devices are provided for the connection of
dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure
these are connected and properly used. Use of
dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
•Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use
of tools allow you to become complacent and
ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can
cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.
•
•
•Do not use the power tool if the switch does not
Any power tool that cannot be
controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be
repaired.
•Disconnect the plug from the power source and/
or remove the battery pack, if detachable, from
the power tool before making any adjustments,
changing accessories, or storing power tools.
Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of
starting the power tool accidentally.
•Store idle power tools out of the reach of
children and do not allow persons unfamiliar
with the power tool or these instructions
to operate the power tool. Power tools are
dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
Maintain power tools and accessories. Check
for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts and any other condition that
have the power tool repaired before use. Many ac-
cidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges
are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
•Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits
etc. in accordance with these instructions,
taking into account the working conditions and
the work to be performed. Use of the power tool
result in a hazardous situation.
•Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean
and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and
grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and
control of the tool in unexpected situations.
If operating a power tool in a damp location is
unavoidable, use a residual current device
(RCD) protected supply. Use of a RCD reduces
the risk of electric shock.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewellery. Keep your hair and clothing away
from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or
long hair can be caught in moving parts.

3
BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE
SERVICE
General pruning saw safety warnings:
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR
HATCHET™ PRUNING SAWS
repair person using only identical replacement
parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power
tool is maintained.
•Never service damaged battery packs. Service
of battery packs should only be performed by the
manufacturer or authorised service providers.
manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type
with another battery pack.
battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may
•When battery pack is not in use, keep it away
from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins,
keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects,
that can make a connection from one terminal
to another. Shorting the battery terminals together
•Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected
from the battery; avoid contact. If contact acciden-
eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid
ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
•
•
•Always keep proper footing and operate the prun-
level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces may
cause a loss of balance or control of the pruning saw.
•Do not operate a pruning saw in a tree, on a lad-
To avoid death or serious injury, operator must be
trained in safe climbing techniques and in the use
of all appropriate safety equipment.
•When cutting a limb that is under tension be alert
for spring back. -
bres is released the spring loaded limb may strike the
operator and/or throw the pruning saw out of control.
•Use extreme caution when cutting brush and sap-
lings. The slender material may catch the saw chain
•Carry the pruning saw away from your body and
-
guide bar cover. Proper handling of the pruning saw
will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with
the moving saw chain.
•Follow instructions for lubricating, chain ten-
sioning and changing the bar and chain. Improp-
erly tensioned or lubricated chain may either break
or increase the chance for kickback.
•Cut wood only. Do not use pruning saw for pur-
poses not intended. For example: do not use
pruning saw for cutting metal, plastic, masonry
or non-wood building materials. Use of the prun-
result in a hazardous situation.
•Do not attempt to fell a tree until you have an
understanding of the risks and how to avoid
them. Serious injury could occur to the operator or
bystanders while felling a tree.
Causes and operator prevention of kickback:
Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide
bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in
and pinches the saw chain in the cut.
Tip contact in some cases may cause a sudden
reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back
towards the operator.
Pinching thesaw chainalong thetop ofthe guidebar may
push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator.
Either of these reactions may cause you to lose
control of the saw which could result in serious per-
sonal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety
devices built into your saw. As a pruning saw user,
you should take several steps to keep your cutting
jobs free from accident or injury.
Kickback is the result of pruning saw misuse and/or in-
correct operating procedures or conditions and can be
avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:
• -
tion your body and arm(s) to allow you to resist
kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled
by the operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do
not let go of the pruning saw.
•Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder
height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact
and enables better control of the pruning saw in
unexpected situations.
•Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain
when the pruning saw is operating. Before you
start the pruning saw, make sure the saw chain is
not contacting anything. A moment of inattention
while operating pruning saws may cause entangle-
ment of your clothing or body with the saw chain.
•
•Hold the pruning saw by insulated gripping sur-
faces only, because the saw chain may contact
hidden wiring. Saw chains contacting a "live" wire
may make exposed metal parts of the pruning saw
"live" and could give the operator an electric shock.
•Wear eye protection. Further protective equip-
ment for hearing, head, hands, legs and feet is
recommended. Adequate protective equipment
-
cidental contact with the saw chain.
Do not use a battery pack or tool that is
damaged or modified. Damaged or modified
batteries may exhibit unpredictable behaviour
resulting in fire, explosion or risk of injury.
•
Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or
excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or
temperature above 130°C (265°F) may cause
explosion.
Follow all charging instructions and do not
charge the battery pack or tool outside the
temperature range specified in the
instructions. Charging improperly or at
temperatures outside the specified range may
damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
Always hold the pruning saw with your right
hand on the trigger handle and your left hand
on the body grip. Holding the pruning saw with a
reversed hand configuration increases the risk of
personal injury.

4
•Only use replacement guide bars and saw chains
Incorrect replace-
ment guide bars and saw chains may cause chain
breakage and/or kickback.
•Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and
maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to in-
creased kickback.
•Use extreme caution to reduce the risk of falling.
Keep the saw chain well clear of any harness and
lifeline to prevent them from being severed.
•Follow all instructions when clearing jammed
material, storing or servicing the pruning saw.
is removed. Unexpected actuation of the pruning
saw while clearing jammed material or servicing
may result in serious personal injury.
Other Pruning Saw Safety Rules
•Do not start cutting until you have a clear work area,
secure footing, and a planned retreat path from the
falling workpiece. Cluttered areas invite accidents.
•Make sure that the area in which you are cutting
is free from obstructions. Do not let the nose of
the guide bar contact a log, branch, fence, or any
other obstruction that could be hit while you are
operating the saw.
•Always cut with the unit running at full speed.
Fully squeeze the throttle trigger and maintain
a steady cutting speed.
•Use extreme caution to reduce the risk of fall-
ing. Keep the saw chain well clear of any harness
and lifeline to prevent them from being severed.
•Keep ALL children, bystanders, visitors, and
animals out of the work area while starting or
cutting with the pruning saw.
•
•Heavy protective clothing may increase operator
fatigue, which could lead to heat stroke. During
weather that is hot and humid, heavy work should
be scheduled for early morning or late afternoon
hours when temperatures are cooler.
•
•
•Keep all parts of your body away from the saw
chain when the unit is running.
•Never let anyone use your pruning saw who has
not received adequate instructions in its proper
use. This applies to rentals as well as privately
owned saws.
•Before you start the unit, make sure the saw
chain is not contacting any object.
•Stop the pruning saw before setting it down.
•Maintain the unit with care. Keep the cutting edge
sharp and clean for best performance and to reduce
the risk of injury. Follow instructions for lubricating
and changing accessories.
• -
ing surfaces. If an operation cannot be performed
safely with two hands on the saw, USE EXTREME
CAUTION.
•During operations where it is necessary to
use one hand, such as to steady or control the
workpiece/branch, guide workpiece away from
you, or provide better visibility to the work area:
• Keep free hand clear of the chain and out of the
cutting path.
•
avoid "skating" or "bouncing" of the saw.
• Never cut above shoulder height.
• Do not cross arms or overreach.
• Always cut away from yourself.
•
being cut.
•Do not operate a pruning saw that is damaged, im-
properly adjusted, or not completely and secure-
ly assembled. Chain should slow to a stop when the
switch trigger is released. If the chain continues to
turn after the switch trigger has been released, have
the unit serviced by an authorised service centre.
•Do not force the pruning saw. The job can be
performed better and safer at the rate for which it
was intended.
•
•Use extreme caution when cutting thin branches,
vines or small underbrush. The slender material
may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you
trimmers or brush cutters for these operations.
•Store pruning saw when not in use. Pruning saw
should be stored in a dry and high or locked area
out of the reach of children. When storing pruning
saw place the cover on the bar and chain.
•Battery operated units do not have to be plugged
into an electrical outlet; therefore, they are al-
ways in operating condition. Be aware of possible
hazards even when unit is not operating.
•Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently
and use them to instruct others who may use this
product. If you loan someone this product, loan them
these instructions also.
•After each use, clean the machine with a soft
dry cloth. Remove any chips, dirt and debris in
the battery bay.
•Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and
maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to in-
creased kickback.
•Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and
grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing
loss of control.
Dress Properly - Wear snug fitting clothing.
Always wear heavy, long pants, long sleeves,
overalls, jeans or chaps made of cut resistant
material or ones that contain cut resistant inserts.
Wear non-slip safety footwear. Wear non-slip
heavy duty gloves to improve your grip and to
protect your hands. Do not wear jewellery, short
pants, sandals, or go barefoot. Do not wear loose
fitting clothing, which could be drawn into the
motor or catch the chain or underbrush. Secure
hair so it is above shoulder level.
Always wear proper eye protection with side
shields, marked to comply with AS/NZS 1337
when operating the pruning saw.
Always be aware of what you are doing when
using the pruning saw. Use common sense. Do
not operate the pruning saw when you are tired, ill,
or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or
medication.
Always use the right product for your
application. The pruning saw should be used for
cutting wood only. Never use the pruning saw to
cut plastic, masonry or non-wood building
materials.

5
•
•If using with a lanyard, do not exceed maximum
capacity marked on the lanyard label. Always
determine the weight of the product, with all ac-
cessories, when selecting the appropriate lanyard
system. Exceeding maximum capacity may result in
serious injury. See specifications for tool and battery
weight.
•
•
•
•
•
•arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated
lumber.
Use with energy absorbing lanyards or dynamic
climbing rope only. Other ropes, straps or chains
may break and cause failure. Do not use with lan-
yards at full tension.
Do not hang tool from guide guide bar cover loops.
Always use common sense and be cautious when
using tools. It is not possible to anticipate every
situation that could result in a dangerous outcome.
Do not use this tool if you do not understand these
operating instructions or you feel the work is beyond
your capability; contact Milwaukee Tool or a trained
professional for additional information or training.
WARNING
Some dust
sawing, grinding,
creat
drilling,
ed by power sanding,
and other
construction activities contains chemicals known to
cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive
harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
lead from lead-based paint
crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other
masonry products, and
SYMBOLOGY
Volts
Direct Current
etuniMrepsnoituloveRdaoLoN
(RPM)
Read operato
Caution! Warning! Danger!
r’s manual
seudnanoitcetorpeyeraewsyawlA
proper personal protective equipment.
Wear non-slip safety footwear
Wear protective gloves
niesuroniarotesopxetonoD
damp locations.
Use EXTREME CAUTION during
one-handed operations.
Use pruning saw two-handed
Do not hold tool by knuckle guard
Avoid contact with bar tip
WARNING
Beware of kickback.
Chain Oil Reservoir
Chain Direction
Chain Tension Adjustment
Maintain labels and nameplates. These carry
important information. If unreadable or missing,
contact a MILWAUKEE®service facility for a
replacement.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending
on how often you do this type of work. To reduce
your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well
ventilated area, and work with approved safety
equipment, such as those dust masks that are
specially designed to filter out microscopic
particles.
WARNING
Do
batteries.
not charge non-rechargeable
ADDITIONAL BATTERY SAFETY RULES
WARNING
To
injur
y, reduce
and
the
product
risk of
damag
fire, edu personal
eto
a short circuit, never immerse your tool, battery
pack or charger in fluid or allow a fluid to flow inside
them. Corrosive or conductive fluids, such as
seawater, certain industrial chemicals, and bleach
or bleach-containing products, etc., can cause a
short circuit.
Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM).
This product meets applicable
regulatory requirements.
Do not dispose of electric tools
together with household waste
material. Electric tools and electronic
equipment that have reached the end
of their life must be collected
separately and returned to an
environmentally compatible recycling
facility.
Keep bystanders at least 15 m away
during use.
V

6
ASSEMBLY
WARNING
Recharge only with the charger
changing or removing accessories.
WARNING
Always remove battery pack before
CAUTION
Chain is sharp. Always wear protec-
-
manual supplied with your charger and battery.
Inserting/Removing the Battery
To remove the battery, push in the release buttons
and pull the battery pack away from the tool.
WARNING
the battery pack
Always lock the trigger or remove
any time the tool
is not in use.
To insert the battery, slide the pack into the body
of the tool. Make sure it latches securely into place.
WARNING
reco
Only use
mmended
accessorie
for thi
s
s tool. Others
may be hazardous.
Replacing/Adjusting the
Saw Chain and Bar
tive gloves when handling the chain.
Use Low Kickback Saw Chains - The rakers (depth
gauges) ahead of each cutter can minimise the force
of a kickback reaction by preventing the cutters from
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
1. Lanyard loop
2. Trigger handle
4. Body grip
5. Knuckle guard
6. Chain cover
7. Saw chain
8. Guide bar
9. Guide bar sprocket
(internal, not shown)
10.Guide bar cover
11. Oil cap
12.Oil reservoir
13.Bucking spikes
14.Guide bar nut
15.Chain tensioning screw
16.Variable speed trigger
17.Adjustment tool
(bottom of saw)
12
3
45
678
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
17
9
As saw chains are sharpened during their useful life,
they lose some of the low kickback qualities and extra
caution should be used.
1. Remove the battery pack.
3. Remove the guide bar cover.
4. Remove the chain cover by removing the guide
bar nut using the adjustment tool.
5.
unloop the chain from the drive hub.
Saw Chain is sharp.
7. Remove the chain from the guide bar groove.
8. Wrap the new or sharpened chain around the
guide bar in the direction indicated on the saw
.
CAUTION
CAUTION
Saw Chain is sharp. Inspect guide
bar for cracks or wear; replace if
damaged.
digging in too deeply at the kickback zone. Only use
replacement chain that is equivalent to original
chain or has been certified as low kickback chain
per ANSI B175.1.
3. Trigger lock-off
Loosen the chain by turning the chain tensioning
screw anticlockwise with the adjustment tool.
SPECIFICATIONS
Cat. No.................................................. M18 FHS8
Volts............................................................ 18V DC
Battery Type .................................................M18™
Charger Type................................................M18™
RPM................................................................2,600
Chain Speed............................................... 5.0 m/s
Bar Length...........................................8" (203 mm)
Cutting Capacity ...............................7.5" (190 mm)
Chain Oil Tank Capacity ............................... 77 ml
Replacement Bar.................................... 49162751
Chain Gauge .................................0.043" (1.1 mm)
Replacement Chain................................ 49162750
Chain Type ........................................ Low kickback
Chain Pitch...................... 9.5 mm (3/8") Low profile
Chain Teeth .........................................................33
Weight (Tool-Only)............................ 2.2 kg (4.9 lb)
Weight with 8" bar, chain, oil,
Recommended Ambient
& M18™ 12.0 Ah battery pack....... 3.9 kg (8.6 lb)
Operating Temperature.................... -17°C to 51°C

7
9. Ensure the chain is properly set in the guide bar
groove around the entire guide bar.
bar around the guide bar bolt.
Hub
Drive Bar Bolt
Guide
11. Install the chain cover.
12.Use the adjustment tool to rotate the chain ten-
sioning screw to increase tension (clockwise) until
the chain is snug around the guide bar.
• The tension is correct when the chain snaps back
after being pulled 3 mm (1/8") away from the
guide bar. No sag should be visible in the chain.
•
•
Chain Oil
13.Tighten the guide bar nut securely.
Do not over-tension the chain - excess tension
will cause excessive wear and will reduce the
life of the chain and could damage the bar.
New chains could stretch and loosen during
initial use. NOTE: Remove battery pack and
two hours of use.
WARNING
Always remove
changing or removing accessories.
battery pack before
NOTICE
Fill oil reservoir with chain oil (not
provided) before starting the pruning
saw and when tank is less than 1/4 full. Failure
to oil the chain will cause damage to the bar and
chain.
each full battery discharge. Use a high quality chain
oil. The oil will keep the saw chain and guide bar
properly lubricated. Never run the saw without chain
oil. Keep the reservoir more than 1/4 full to ensure
the chain when storing to prevent rust. Always empty
the oil tank when storing to prevent leakage.
NOTE: It is recommended to use a vegetable-based
chain oil when pruning trees. Mineral oil may harm
trees. Never use waste oil, automotive oil, or very
thick oils. These could damage the pruning saw.
Filling the Oil Reservoir
Transporting Saw
Before transporting, always:
OPERATION
1. Remove the battery pack
2. Place the cover over the guide bar.
DANGER
Never cut near power lines, electric
1. Remove the battery pack.
2.
3. Unscrew the oil cap.
5. Tighten oil cap securely.
6. Repeat as needed during use.
7. Periodically check that the saw chain is lubricat-
ing correctly:
.a
03yletamixorpparofwasgninurpehtnuR.b
seconds.
thgilehtnoelbisivemocebdluohsenillionA.c
surface.
rohtrabediugehtnaelcdnaevomer,tonfI.d-
oughly. Ensure the guide bar sprocket (at the
tip) rotates freely.
.e
WARNING
•Guard Against Kickback which can result in
severe injury or death. See Important Safety
Instructions "Guard Against Kickback", to avoid
the risk of kickback.
cords, or other electric sources. If
bar and chain jams on any electrical cord or line,
DO NOT TOUCH THE BAR OR CHAIN! THEY CAN
BECOME ELECTRICALLY LIVE AND VERY DAN-
GEROUS. Continue to hold the pruning saw by
the insulated grasping surfaces or lay it down
and away from you in a safe manner. Disconnect
the electrical service to the damaged line or cord
before attempting to free the bar and chain from
the line or cord. Contact with the bar, chain,
other conductive parts of the pruning saw, or live
electric cords or lines will result in death by
electrocution, electric shock, or serious per-
sonal injury.
With a full reservoir, hold the pruning saw with
the tip of the guide bar pointing at a
light-coloured surface.
If the lubrication system still does not work
properly, contact a MILWAUKEE®service
facility.
To reduce the risk of injury, always wear proper
eye protection marked to comply with
AS/NZS 1337.1.
When working in dusty situations, wear
appropriate respiratory protection or use a
suitable dust extraction solution.
Read and understand all
instructions. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below may result in electric
shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.

8
Kickback
WARNING
Kickback may occur
when the nose or tip of
the guide bar touches an object, or when
the wood closes in and pinches the saw
chain in the cut.
Tip contact in some cases may cause
a sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up
and back towards the operator.
Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide
bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards
the operator.
Either of these reactions may cause you to lose
control of the saw which could result in serious per-
sonal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety
devices built into your saw. As a pruning saw user,
you should take several steps to keep your cutting
jobs free from accident or injury.
•
•Do not overreach. Do not cut above shoulder
apart. Divide your weight evenly on both feet.
•Always keep proper footing and operate the prun-
level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces may
cause a loss of balance or control of the pruning saw.
•Do not operate a pruning saw in a tree, on a lad-
To avoid death or serious injury, operator must be
trained in safe climbing techniques and in the use
of all appropriate safety equipment.
•Do not allow familiarity with this product to make
you careless. Remember that a careless fraction
•Hold the pruning saw with your right hand on the
trigger handle and your left hand on the body
grip. Holding the pruning saw with a reversed hand
•During operations where it is necessary to
use one hand, such as to steady or control the
workpiece/branch, guide workpiece away from
you, or provide better visibility to the work area:
• Keep free hand clear of the chain and out of the
cutting path.
•
avoid "skating" or "bouncing" of the saw.
• Never cut above shoulder height.
• Do not cross arms or overreach.
• Always cut away from yourself.
•
being cut.
•Never allow any part of your body to be in line with
the guide bar when operating the pruning saw.
•Never operate while in any awkward position
or on an other unstable surface. You may lose
control of saw causing severe injury.
•Making a cut that has a diameter greater than
the saw's cutting capacity requires advanced
techniques and should only be performed by
properly trained professionals. Performing these
types of cuts can cause an accident and result
in death or serious personal injury.
•Keep the pruning saw running at full speed the
entire time you are cutting.
•Allow the chain to cut for you. Exert only light
pressure. Do not put pressure on pruning saw
at end of cut.
•Do not use any attachments or accessories not
recommended by the manufacturer. The use of
attachments or accessories not recommended
can result in serious personal injury.
Tethering
Tethering with energy absorbing lanyards only. Only
attach the tether to lanyard loop. Do not attach the
tether to handle, guide bar cover, or any other point
on the tool.
With a basic understanding of kickback, you can
reduce or eliminate the element of surprise. Sud-
den surprise contributes to accidents.
•
•
Always cut with the unit running at full speed.
Fully squeeze the throttle trigger and maintain
a steady cutting speed.
Only use replacement guide bars and saw chains
Incorrect replace-
ment guide bars and saw chains may cause chain
breakage and/or kickback.
•Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
•
saw and position your body and
arm(s) to allow you to resist kick-
back forces. Kickback forces can be
controlled by the operator, if proper
precautions are taken. Do not let go
of the pruning saw.
•Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder
height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact
and enables better control of the pruning saw in
unexpected situations.
•Make sure that the area in which you are cutting
is free from obstructions. Do not let the nose of
the guide bar contact a log, branch, fence, or any
other obstruction that could be hit while you are
operating the saw.
•Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and
maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to in-
creased kickback.
•Follow all instructions when clearing jammed
material, storing or servicing the pruning saw.
is removed. Unexpected actuation of the pruning
saw while clearing jammed material or servicing
may result in serious personal injury.
Always wear proper eye protection with side
shields, marked to comply with AS/NZS 1337.1
when operating the pruning saw. Failure to do
so could result in objects being thrown into
your eyes and other possible serious injuries.

9
•Push and Pull - This reaction force is always
opposite to the direction the chain is moving
where wood contact is made. Thus, the operator
must be ready to control the PULL when cutting on
the bottom edge of the bar, and PUSH when cutting
along the top edge.
Reaction
Direction
of rotation
of rotation
Direction
Reaction
WARNING
Hold the pruning saw
4.
5.
1. Insert the battery pack.
2. Grip both handles securely, keeping body out of
line with the chain.
while pulling the trigger.
with your right hand
on the trigger handle and your left
hand on the body grip. Position your
body and arm(s) to allow you to re-
sist kickback forces. -
control of the saw if kickback occurs. Keep body to
the left of the chain line. Never straddle the saw
or chain, or lean over past the chain line.
Wear non-slip gloves for maximum grip and
protection.
Allow pruning saw to come to full speed before
contacting workpiece.
To stop, release the trigger. Hold saw still until
chain comes to a complete stop.
the ON position.
Proper Cutting Stance
WARNING
Never attempt to lock the trigger in
WARNING
Always use the proper cutting
stance described in this section.
Never kneel when using the pruning saw, except
when felling a tree. Kneeling could result in loss
of stability and control of the pruning saw, result-
ing in serious personal injury.
Chain Line Straight
Arm
Position
•Weight should be balanced with both feet on
solid ground.
•Keep left arm with elbow locked in a “straight
arm” position to withstand any kickback force.
•Your body should always be to the left of the
chain line.
•Left hand should be on underside of knuckle
guard.
Work Area Precautions
•Cut only wood or materials made from wood, no
sheet metal, no plastics, no masonry, no non-wood
building materials.
•Never allow children to operate the saw. Allow no
person to use this pruning saw who has not read this
Operator’s Manual or received adequate instructions
for the safe and proper use of this pruning saw.
•
•Do not attempt to fell a tree or sapling greater
than 7.5" (190 mm) in diameter. To avoid death
or serious injury, operator must be trained in safe
tree felling techniques, in the use of all appropriate
safety equipment and use of a pruing saw suitable
for the application.
When felling a tree, keep everyone - helpers,
bystanders, children, and animals - a safe distance
from the cutting area. During felling operations, the
safe distance should be a least twice the height of
the largest trees in the felling area. During bucking
operations, keep a minimum distance of 5 metres
between workers. Trees should not be felled in a
manner that would endanger any person, strike
any utility line or cause any property damage. If the
tree does make contact with any utility line, the
utility company should be notified immediately.

10
•Always cut with both feet on solid surface to prevent
•Do not cut above shoulder height, as a saw held
•Do not fell trees near electrical wires or buildings.
Leave this operation for professionals.
•Cut only when visibility and light are adequate for
you to see clearly.
•Check work area for hazards such as bees, rodents,
snakes, etc., that may live in trees or brush.
Basic Cutting Procedure
Practice cutting a few small logs using the following
technique to get the “feel” of using the saw before
you begin a major sawing operation.
Bucking
Bucking is the term used for cutting a fallen tree to
the desired log length.
1. Take the proper stance in front of the wood with
2. Press down the trigger lock-off, squeeze the
trigger, and let the chain accelerate to full speed
before entering the cut.
3. Begin cutting with the saw against the log near
the bucking spikes.
4. Keep the unit running the entire time you are cut-
ting, maintain a steady speed.
5. Allow the chain to cut for you; exert only light
downward pressure. If you force the cut, damage
to the bar, chain, or unit can result.
6. Release the switch trigger as soon as the cut is
completed, allowing the chain to stop. If you run
the saw without a cutting load, unnecessary wear
can occur to the chain, bar, and unit.
7. Do not put pressure on the saw at the end of cut.
•Always make sure your footing is secure and your
weight is distributed evenly on both feet.
•Cut only one log at a time.
•Support small logs on a saw horse or another log
while bucking.
•Keep a clear cutting area. Make sure that no objects
can contact the guide bar nose and chain during
cutting, this can cause kickback.
•Never allow someone to hold the log during cutting.
•Never stabilize log with leg or feet.
Kickback
•When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill
side of the log. To maintain complete control of the
pruning saw when cutting through the log, release
the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without
relaxing your grip on the grasping surfaces. Do not
let the chain contact the ground. After completing
the cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you
move the pruning saw. Always stop the motor before
moving from tree to tree.
Springpoles
WARNING
Springpoles are dangerous and
could strike the operator, causing
•Sometimes it is impossible to avoid pinching (with
which way a log will settle when cut. To avoid pinch-
ing while cutting, rotate or move the log so that the
pinch is eliminated.
Springpole
the operator to lose control of the pruning saw.
This could result in severe or fatal injury to the
operator.
A springpole is any log, branch, rooted stump, or
sapling which is bent under tension by other wood
so that it springs back if the wood holding it is cut
or removed. On a fallen tree, a rooted stump has
a high potential of springing back to the upright
position during the bucking cut to separate the log
from the stump. Watch out for springpoles, they are
dangerous.

11
Types of Cutting Used
Overbucking (crosscutting)
Overbucking
Begin on the top side of the log with the bottom of the
saw against the log; exert light pressure downward.
Note that the saw will tend to pull away from you.
Underbucking (crosscutting)
Underbucking
WARNING
Never climb into a tree to limb or
Begin on the under side of the log with the top of the
saw against the log; exert light pressure upward. Dur-
ing underbucking, the saw will tend to push back at
you. Be prepared for this reaction and hold the saw
Limbing
prune. Do not stand on ladders,
platforms, a log, or in any position which can
cause you to lose your balance or control of the
saw.
Limbing is removing branches from a fallen tree.
Cut limbs one at a time and leave support limbs
under tree until log is cut.
•Keep the tree between you and the pruning saw
while limbing. Cut from the side of the tree opposite
the branch you are cutting.
•Work slowly, keeping both hands on the pruning
-
ing is secure and your weight is distributed evenly
on both feet.
•Leave the larger support limbs under the tree to keep
•Limbs should be cut one at a time. Remove the cut
limbs from the work area often to help keep the work
area clean and safe.
•Branches under tension should be cut from the bot-
tom up to avoid binding the pruning saw.
4
3
2
1
Pruning
WARNING
If the limbs to be pruned are above
shoulder height, hire a profes-
sional to perform the pruning. Failure to do so
could result in serious personal injury.
Cut
Load Second
First Cut
1/3 Diameter
Finishing Cut
Pruning is trimming limbs from a live tree.
•Work slowly, keeping both hands on the pruning
•
-
ing is secure and your weight is distributed evenly
on both feet.
•Do not cut from a ladder, this is extremely danger-
ous. Leave this operation for professionals.
•
Do not cut above shoulder height as a saw held
When pruning trees it is important not to make the
weight. This prevents stripping the bark from the
main member.
•
•Your second cut should overbuck to drop the
•
against the main member so the bark will grow back
to seal the wound.

12
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem Cause Solution
Bar and
chain
running
hot and
smoking.
tension.
Correct chain
Fill oil reservoir.
Motor
runs,
but
chain
rotating.
is not
Check chain
tension for over tight
condition.
Chain oil reservoir is
empty.
Guide bar and
Chain tension too
tight.
assembled.
chain improperly
Correct chain
tension.
Guide bar or chain
is damaged.
Correct
assembly.
Replaced
damaged parts
before use.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, always
Sharpening the Saw Chain
WARNING
Improper chain sharpening in-
creases the potential of kickback.
Failure to replace or repair damaged chain can
cause serious injury.
The saw chain is very sharp, always wear pro-
tective gloves when performing maintenance to
the chain.
unplug the charger and remove the
battery pack from the charger or tool before
performing any maintenance. Never disassemble
the tool, battery pack or charger. Contact a
MILWAUKEE®service facility for ALL repairs.
Maintaining Tool
Chain and Bar
Toe
Depth Gauge
Side Plate
Top Plate
Rivet Hole
Heel
Gullet
Cutting Corner
to the same length, as fast cutting can be obtained
only when all cutters are uniform.
•Wear gloves for protection.
•Properly tension the chain prior to sharpening.
Replacing/Adjusting the Saw
Chain and Bar section.
•Refer to Step 12 in the
•Do
Left Hand Cutters
Right Hand Cutters
•
or rock.
level with the top plate of the tooth. Do
from the steel on each return stroke.
of the tooth.
•Using light
front corner
•
•Keep the
not let the
•Put a few all left
side and
hand cutters in one direction. Then move to the other
the right hand cutters in the opposite
with a wire brush.
Keep your tool, battery pack and charger in good
repair by adopting a regular maintenance program.
Inspect your tool for issues such as undue noise,
misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage
of parts, or any other condition that may affect the
tool operation. Return the tool, battery pack, and
charger to a MILWAUKEE®service facility for repair.
After six months to one year, depending on use,
return the tool, battery pack and charger to a
MILWAUKEE®service facility for inspection.
If the tool does not start or operate at full power with
a fully charged battery pack, clean the contacts on
the battery pack. If the tool still does not work
properly, return the tool, charger and battery pack,
to a MILWAUKEE®service facility for repairs.
After every few hours of use, remove the chain
cover, guide bar and chain and clean thoroughly
using a soft bristle brush. Ensure oiling hole on bar
is clear of debris. When replacing dull chains with
sharp chains it is good practice to flip the guide bar
from bottom to top.
Use a 3.96 mm (5/32 in.) diameter round file and
holder.

13
Top Plate Filing Angle
More
than 30°
CORRECT
Top Plate Filing Angle
Less
30° than 30°
INCORRECT
Top Plate Filing Angle
dulls quickly.•MORE THAN 30° - Feathered edge
Side Plate Angle
•
•LESS THAN 30° - For cross cutting.
CORRECT
Filing Angle
Side Plate
Backward
Slope
80°
Hook
INCORRECT
Side Plate Filing Angle
•
•
•
Depth Gauge Clearance
•
•
Depth Gauge Jointer
Flat File
Restore
shape
original
the front
rounding
by
gauges.
Guide Bar Maintenance
bar from bottom to top on the saw to distribute the
wear for maximum bar life. The bar should be cleaned
every day of use and checked for wear and damage.
Bar
Rails
Feathering or burring of the bar
rails is a normal process of bar
wear. Such faults should be
as they occur.
A bar with any of the following
faults should be replaced.
groove which permits the chain to lay over sideways.
•Wear inside the bar rails/
WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal in-
•Bent guide bar.
•Cracked or broken rails/guide bar groove.
•Spread rails.
Lubricate guide bars with a sprocket at their tip
weekly. Using a grease syringe, lubricate weekly in
the lubricating hole, located under chain cover. Turn
the guide bar and check that the lubrication holes and
bar rails are free from impurities.
WARNING
Use only recommended accesso-
jury and damage, never immerse
your tool, battery pack or charger in liquid or allow
Cleaning
Clean dust and debris from any vents. Keep tool
clean, dry and free of oil or grease. Use only mild
soap and a damp cloth to clean, since certain clean-
ing agents and solvents are harmful to plastics and
other insulated parts. Some of these include gasoline,
turpentine, lacquer thinner, paint thinner, chlorinated
cleaning solvents, ammonia and household deter-
combustible solvents around tools.
Repairs
For repairs, return the tool, battery pack and charger
to the nearest authorised service centre.
ACCESSORIES
ries. Others may be hazardous.
For a complete listing of accessories, go online to
milwaukeetool.com.au/milwaukeetool.co.nz or
contact a distributor.
The depth gauge should be maintained at a
clearance of 0.635 mm (.025") Use a depth gauge
tool for checking the depth gauge clearances.
Every time the chain is filed, check the depth
gauge clearance.
Use a flat file and a depth gauge jointer to lower all
gauges uniformly. Depth gauge jointers are
available in 0.508 mm (.020") to 0.89 mm (.035").
Use a 0.635 mm (.025")
depth gauge jointer. After
lowering each depth
gauge, restore original
shape by rounding the
front. Be careful not to
damage adjoining drive
links with the edge of the
file.
CORRECT - 80° Produced automatically if correct
diameter file is used in file holder.
HOOK - “Grabs” and dulls quickly. Increases
potential of KICKBACK. Results from using a file
with diameter too small, or file held too low.
BACKWARD SLOPE - Needs too much feed
pressure, causes excessive wear to bar and chain.
Results from using a file with diameter too large, or
file held too high.
CORRECT 30° - File holders are marked with
guide marks to align file properly to produce
correct top plate angle.

WARRANTY - AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND
SERVICE - AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND
MILWAUKEE®prides itself in producing a premium quality product that is Nothing But Heavy DutyTM.
Your satisfaction with our products is very important to us! If you encounter any problems with the
operation of this tool, please contact your authorised MILWAUKEE®dealer.
For a list of MILWAUKEE®dealers, guarantee or service agents please contact MILWAUKEE®
Customer Service or visit our website.
(Australia Toll Free Telephone Number 1300 645 928)
(New Zealand Toll Free Telephone Number 0800 645 928)
or visit milwaukeetool.com.au/milwaukeetool.co.nz.
Please refer to Australian and New Zealand warranty supplied with tool. This warranty applies only to
product sold by authorised dealers in Australia and New Zealand.
961014500-02(A)
DESIGNED BY MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP.
PROFESSIONALLY MADE IN CHINA
PRINTED IN CHINA
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
13135 West Lisbon Road, Brookfield, Wisconsin U.S.A. 53005
Milwaukee Tool (Australia)
26 - 40 Nina Link, Dandenong South,
Victoria, 3175, Australia
Milwaukee Tool (New Zealand)
274 Church Street, Penrose,
Auckland, 1061, New Zealand