Ryobi RCS1825Li15 User manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
18 VOLT CHAIN SAW
RCS1825Li15/CCW180
Important! It is essential that you read the instructions in this manual before operating
this machine.
Subject to technical modifications.

2
Introduction........................................................................................................................................2
General Safety Rules .....................................................................................................................3-7
SpecicSafetyRules ........................................................................................................................8
Symbols.............................................................................................................................................9
Features .....................................................................................................................................10-11
Assembly.........................................................................................................................................12
Operation....................................................................................................................................12-20
Maintenance...............................................................................................................................21-26
Troubleshooting...............................................................................................................................27
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
This product has many features for making its use more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance,
and dependability have been given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain
and operate.

3
WARNING:
Read all safety warnings and all instructions.
Failure to follow the warnings and instructions
may result in electric shock, re and/or serious
injury.
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-operated (cordless) power tool.
1. WORK AREA SAFETY
a. Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
or dark areas invite accidents.
b. Do not operate power tools in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power
tools create sparks which may ignite the dust
or fumes.
c. Keep children and bystanders away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
2. ELECTRICAL SAFETY
a. 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. Unmodified plugs and matching
outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
b. 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.
c. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet
conditions. Water entering a power tool will
increase the risk of electric shock.
d. 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.
e. When operating a power tool outdoors, use
an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces
the risk of electric shock.
f. If operating a power tool in a damp location
is unavoidable, use a residual current
device (RCD) protected supply. Use of an
RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.
3. PERSONAL SAFETY
a. 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 the influence of drugs, alcohol
or medication. A moment of inattention while
operating power tools may result in serious
personal injury.
b. Use personal protective equipment. Always
wear eye protection. Protective equipment
such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard
hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate
conditions will reduce personal injuries.
c. Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure
the switch is in the off-position before
connecting to power source and/or battery
pack, picking up or carrying the tool.
Carrying power tools with your finger on the
switch or energising power tools that have the
switch on invites accidents.
d. 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.
e. Keep proper footing and balance at all
times. This enables better control of the power
tool in unexpected situations.
f. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing
or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from moving parts. Loose
clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in
moving parts.
g. 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.
4. POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
a. 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.
b. Do not use the power tool if the switch
does not turn it on and off. Any power tool
that cannot be controlled with the switch is
GENERAL SAFETY RULES

4
CHAIN SAW SAFETY WARNINGS
Keep all parts of the body away from the saw
chain when the chain saw is operating.
Before you start the chain saw, make sure the
saw chain is not contacting anything. A moment
of inattention while operating chain saws may
cause entanglement of your clothing or body
with the saw chain.
Always hold the chain saw with your right
hand on the rear handle and your left hand
on the front handle. Holding the chain saw with
areversedhandcongurationincreasestherisk
of personal injury and should never be done.
Hold the power tool by insulated gripping
surfaces only, because the saw chain may
contact hidden wiring or its own cord.
Saw chains contacting a “live” wire may make
exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” and
could give the operator an electric shock.
Wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
Further protective equipment for head, hands,
legs and feet is recommended. Adequate
protective clothing will reduce personal injury by
yingdebrisoraccidentalcontactwiththesaw
chain.
Do not operate a chain saw in a tree. Operation
of a chain saw while up in a tree may result in
personal injury.
Always keep proper footing and operate the
chainsawonlywhenstandingonxed,secure
and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces
such as ladders may cause a loss of balance or
control of the chain saw.
When cutting a limb that is under tension be
alert for spring back. When the tension in the
woodbresisreleasedthespringloadedlimb
maystriketheoperatorand/orthrowthechain
saw out of control.
Use extreme caution when cutting brush and
saplings. The slender material may catch the
saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull
dangerous and must be repaired.
c. Disconnect the plug from the power source
and/or the battery pack 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.
d. 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.
e. Maintain power tools. Check for
misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts and any other condition
that may affect the power tool’s operation.
If damaged, have the power tool repaired
before use. Many accidents are caused by
poorly maintained power tools.
f. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting
edges are less likely to bind and are easier to
control.
g. 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 for operations different from those
intended could result in a hazardous situation.
5. BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE
a. Recharge only with the charger specified by
the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable
for one type of battery pack may create a risk
of fire when used with another battery pack.
b. Use power tools only with specifically
designated battery packs. Use of any other
battery packs may create a risk of injury and
fire.
c. 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 may cause burns or
fire.
d. Under abusive conditions, liquid may be
ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If
contact accidentally occurs, flush with plenty
of soap and water. If liquid contacts eyes,
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
immediately seek medical help. Liquid ejected
from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
6. SERVICE
a. Have your power tool serviced by a
qualified repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the
safety of the power tool is maintained.

5
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
you off balance.
Carry the chain saw by the front handle with
the chain saw switched off and away from your
body. When transporting or storing the chain saw
alwaysttheguidebarcover.Properhandling
of the chain saw will reduce the likelihood of
accidental contact with the moving saw chain.
Follow instructions for lubricating, chain
tensioning and changing accessories.
Improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may
either break or increase the chance for kickback.
Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil
and grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery
causing loss of control.
Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for
purposes not intended. For example: do not
use chain saw for cutting plastic, masonry or
non-wood building materials. Use of the chain
saw for operations different than intended could
result in a hazardous situation.
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 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
personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the
safety devices built into your saw.
As a chain saw user, you should take several
steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident
or injury.
Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/or
incorrect operating procedures or conditions and
can be avoided by taking proper precautions as
given below:
Maintain a rm grip, with thumbs and ngers
encircling the chain saw handles, with both
hands on the saw and position your body
and arm to allow you to resist kickback
forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
ROTATIONAL
KICKBACK
KICKBACK
DANGER ZONE
PULL
PUSH
operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not
let go of the chain saw.
Do not overreach and do not cut above
shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended
tip contact and enables better control of the chain
saw in unexpected situations.
Only use replacement bars and chains
specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect
replacement bars and 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
increased kickback.

6
UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHAIN SAW
SAFETY DEVICES
LOW KICKBACK SAW CHAIN
The rakers (depth gauges) ahead of each cutter
can minimize the force of a kickback reaction by
preventing the cutters from digging in too deeply at
the kickback zone. Only use replacement chain that
isequivalenttooriginalchainorhasbeencertied
as low kickback chain.
As saw chains are sharpened during their useful
life, they lose some of the low kickback qualities
and extra caution should be used.
GUIDE BARS
Generally, guide bars with small radius tips have
somewhat lower kickback potentials.
When making a replacement, be sure to order one
of the Ryobi bars listed for the saw in this operator’s
manual.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
CHAIN LINE Fig. 6
Fig. 5
Fig. 4

7
BATTERY SAFETY
Battery operated units do not have to be
plugged into an electrical outlet; therefore, they
are always in operating condition. Be aware
of possible hazards even when unit is not
operating.
Remove the battery pack from the chain saw
before cleaning, servicing, storing, removing
material from the unit, changing accessories
such as the bar and chain, or when not in use.
A battery pack must be recharged only with the
speciedchargerforthebatterypack.Acharger
that may be suitable for one type of battery pack
maycreateariskofrewhenusedwithanother
battery pack. Use battery pack only with charger
listed.
For use with 18V nickel-cadmium and 18 V
lithium-ion battery packs.
To reduce the risk of explosion and possible
injury, Do not place battery units or their batteries
nearreorheat.
Do not open or mutilate the battery pack.
Released electrolyte is corrosive and may cause
damage to the eyes or skin. It may be toxic if
swallowed.
Do not crush, drop or damage battery pack. Do
not use a battery pack or charger that has been
dropped or received a sharp blow. A damaged
battery is subject to explosion. Properly dispose
of a dropped or damaged battery immediately.
Batteries can explode in the presence of a
source of ignition, such as a pilot light. To reduce
the risk of serious personal injury, never use any
cordlessproductinthepresenceofopename.
An exploded battery pack can propel debris
and chemicals. If exposed, ush with water
immediately.
Do not charge unit in a damp or wet location.
Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric
shock.
For best results, your battery unit should be
charged in a location where the temperature is
more than 10°C but less than 37°C. Do not store
outside or in vehicles.
Under extreme usage or temperature conditions,
battery pack leakage may occur. If liquid comes
in contact with your skin, wash immediately with
soapandwater.Ifliquidgetsintoyoureyes,ush
them with clean water for at least 10 minutes,
then seek immediate medical attention.
Do not dispose of batteries in a re. The cell
may explode. Batteries should be recycled,
consult your local waste authority for information
regarding available recycling and/or disposal
options.
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 pack terminals
togethermaycausesparks,burns,orare.
Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently
and use them to instruct others who may use this
tool. If you loan someone this tool, loan them
these instructions also.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES

8
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with
this product.
SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION: (Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may
result in property damage.
SYMBOLS
Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their
meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product better and safer.
SYMBOL DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
Indicates a potential personal injury hazard.
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand operator’s manual before
using this product.
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with standards, along
with hearing and head protection
Wear non-slip, heavy duty protective gloves when handling the product
Danger! Beware of kickback.
Hold and operate the saw properly with both hands.
Do not operate the saw using only one hand.
Waste electrical products should not be disposed of with household waste. Please
recycle where facilities exist. Check with your local authority or retailer for recycling
advice.

9
FEATURES
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Model RCS1825Li15 CCW180
Motor 18 Volt DC
Bar length 10”
Cutting capacity Maximum cut up to 228mm.
Recommended cut is 177mm.
Chain pitch 3/8”
Chain gauge 0.043”
Drive links 40
Battery pack RB18L15 Not included
Compatible
battery pack
RB18L13/RB18L15/RB18L26/RB18L40/BPL-1815/ABP1801/ABP1802/
BPL-1820
Charger BCL14181H Not included
Compatible charger BCL1418/BCL-1800/BCL14181H/BCL14183H(forallbatterypack)
ACR-1800 (onlyforABP1801/ABP1802)

10
Fig. 7
CHAIN OIL
TANK CAP
REAR
HANDLE
FRONT HANDLE
BAR
CHAIN
BATTERY PACK
HEX KEY
HEX KEY
STORAGE AREA
HAND GUARD
SWITCH TRIGGER
BATTERY PACK
LOCK-OUT
BUTTON
SAFETY
COVER
FEATURES
NOTE:
This saw was designed for occasional light duty use and has some limitations as to what it can cut.
KNOW YOUR CHAINSAW
See Figure 7.
The safe use of this product requires an understanding of the information on the product and in this
operator’s manual as well as a knowledge of the project you are attempting. Before use of this product,
familiarize yourself with all operating features and safety rules.

11
UNPACKING
This product has been shipped completely
assembled.
Carefully remove the product and any accessories
from the box. Make sure that all items listed in
the packing list are included.
WARNING:
Do not use this product if it is not completely
assembled or if any parts appear to be missing
or damaged. Use of a product that is not properly
and completely assembled could result in serious
personal injury.
Inspect the product carefully to make sure no
breakage or damage occurred during shipping.
Do not discard the packing material until you
have carefully inspected and satisfactorily
operated the product.
If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
Ryobi Customer Service for assistance.
PACKING LIST
Chain Saw with Cover
Hex Key
Bar and Chain Lubricant
Battery Pack (for RCS1825Li15 only)
Charger (for RCS1825Li15 only)
Operator’s Manual
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with this product to make
you careless. Remember that a careless fraction
ofasecondissufcienttoinictseriousinjury.
WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields
marked to comply with standards, along with
hearing and head protection. Failure to do so
could result in objects being thrown into your eyes
resulting in possible serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not use any attachments or accessories
not recommended by the manufacturer of this
product. The use of attachments or accessories
not recommended can result in serious personal
injury.
Before each use, inspect the entire product for
damaged, missing, or loose parts such as screws,
nuts, bolts, caps, etc. Tighten securely all fasteners
and caps and do not operate this product until all
missing or damaged parts are replaced. Please call
Ryobi Customer Service or contact an authorized
service center for assistance.
OPERATION
ASSEMBLY
WARNING:
If any parts are damaged or missing do not
operate this product until the parts are replaced.
Use of this product with damaged or missing parts
could result in serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to modify this product or create
accessories not recommended for use with this
product. Any such alteration or modication is
misuse and could result in a hazardous condition
leading to possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
To prevent accidental starting that could cause
serious personal injury, always remove the battery
pack from the product when assembling parts.

12
CAUTION:
Remove battery pack from unit. Fill oil tank with
Ryobi Bar and Chain Lubricant before starting the
chain saw. Failure to lubricate the chain will cause
damage to the bar and chain.
CHAIN OIL SYSTEM
See Figure 9.
Use Ryobi Bar and Chain Lubricant. It is
formulated to perform over a wide temperature
range with no dilution required.
NOTE: Do not use dirty, used or otherwise
contaminated oils. Damage may occur to the
bar or chain.
Carefully pour the bar and chain oil into the tank.
Check and fill the oil tank when battery is
recharged, or as needed.
Depress the oil tank cap several times to pump
the oil to the chain before starting the saw.
Depress the oil tank cap every 20-30 seconds
while cutting to keep the chain lubricated.
NOTE: It is normal for lubricant to seep from the
saw when not in use. To prevent seepage, empty
the oil tank after each use. When storing the unit
for a long period of time (three months or longer) be
sure the chain is lightly lubricated; this will prevent
rust on the chain and bar sprocket.
APPLICATIONS
You may use this product for the following purposes:
Limbing and pruning branches from trees
Felling small trees (Cutting capacity: maximum
cut up to 228 mm; recommended cut: 177 mm)
Bucking the fallen tree into shorter lengths
This product will accept Ryobi One + 18 V lithiumion
battery packs and Ryobi One + 18 V nickel-cadmium
battery packs.
For complete charging instructions, refer to the
Operator’s Manual for your Ryobi One + battery
pack and charger models.
TO INSTALL / REMOVE BATTERY PACK
See Figure 8.
WARNING:
Always remove battery pack from your tool when
you are assembling parts, making adjustments,
cleaning, carrying, transporting or when not in use.
Removing battery pack will prevent accidental
starting that could cause serious personal injury.
NOTE: To avoid serious personal injury, always
remove the battery pack and keep hands clear of
the lock-out button when carrying or transporting
the tool.
To install:
Place the battery pack in your chain saw. Align
raised rib on battery pack with groove in chain
saw’s battery port.
Make sure the latches on each side of the
battery pack snap in place and that battery
pack is secured in chain saw before beginning
operation.
To remove:
Locate latches on side of battery pack and depress
both sides to release the battery pack from the
chain saw.
CAUTION:
When placing battery pack in your chain saw, be
sure raised rib on battery pack aligns with groove
in chain saw’s battery port and latches snap in
place properly. Improper assembly of battery
pack can cause damage to internal components. Fig. 9
Fig. 8
BATTERY
PACK
LATCHES
BATTERY
PORT
OPERATION

13
OPERATION
Fig. 10
LOCK-OUT
BUTTON
SWITCH
TRIGGER
LOCK-OUT BUTTON
SWITCH
TRIGGER
STARTING AND STOPPING THE CHAIN
SAW
See Figure 10.
Starting the chain saw:
Placethechainsawonaatbaresurfaceand
make sure no objects or obstructions are in
immediate vicinity which could come in contact
with the bar and chain.
Press and hold the lock-out button. This makes
the switch trigger operational.
Press and hold the switch trigger, release the
lock-out button and continue to squeeze the
switch trigger for continued operation.
Stopping the chain saw:
Release the switch trigger to stop the chain saw.
Upon release of the switch trigger, the lock-out
button will be automatically reset to the lock
position.
The cordless chain saw is designed for cutting
trees (Cutting capacity: maximum cut up to 228
mm; recommended cut: 177 mm).
The cordless chain saw is designed for limbing and
pruning type cutting (Maximum cut: up to 228 mm;
recommended cut: 177 mm).
WARNING:
Do not operate the switch trigger with your left
hand and hold the front handle with your right
hand. Never allow any part of your body to be in
the chain line while operating a saw.
PROPER CUTTING STANCE
See Figure 11.
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.
Thumb should be on underside of handlebar.
BASIC CUTTING PROCEDURE
Practice cutting a few small logs using the following
technique to get the feel of using the saw before
Fig. 11
STRAIGHT ARM
POSITION
CHAIN LINE

14
you begin a major sawing operation.
Take the proper stance in front of the wood with
the saw off.
Squeeze the switch trigger and let the chain
accelerate to full speed before entering the cut.
Begin cutting with the saw against the log.
Keep the unit running the entire time you are
cutting, maintain a steady speed.
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.
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.
Do not put pressure on the saw at the end of cut.
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 chain saw who has not read
this Operator’s Manual or received adequate
instructions for the safe and proper use of this
chain saw.
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 5m 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notiedimmediately.
Always cut with both feet on solid ground to
prevent being pulled off balance.
Do not cut above chest height, as a saw held
higher is difcult to control against kickback
forces.
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.
OPERATION

15
OPERATION
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notiedimmediately.
Before any cuts are started, pick your escape
route (or routes in case the intended route is
blocked); clear the immediate area around the
tree and make sure there are no obstructions in
your planned path of retreat. Clear path of safe
retreat approximately 135° from planned line of
fall. The retreat path should extend back and
diagonally to the rear of the expected line of fall.
See Figure 12.
TREE FELLING
See Figures 12 - 15.
Unusual Hazardous Tree Felling Conditions
Do not fell trees during periods of high wind or
heavy precipitation. Wait to do your cutting until
the hazard has ended.
WARNING:
Do not cut down trees having an extreme lean or
trees that have rotten limbs, loose bark, or hollow
trunks. Have these trees pushed or dragged down
with heavy equipment, then cut them up.
DANGER:
Electrocution hazard. Do not cut trees or branches
near power lines or electrical wires. Contact with
power lines or live electrical wires will result in
serious personal injury or possible death.
WARNING:
Do not cut trees or branches near buildings, which
may result in serious injuries or property damage.
WARNING:
Check the tree for damaged or dead branches
that could fall and hit you during felling.
WARNING:
Periodically glance at the top of the tree during
the backcut to assure the tree is going to fall in
the desired direction.
WARNING:
If the tree starts to fall in the wrong direction, or
if the saw gets caught or hung up during the fall,
leave the saw and save yourself!
 Felling a tree - When bucking and felling perations
are being performed by two or more persons,
at the same time, the felling operation should
be separated from the bucking operation by a
distance of at least twice the height of the tree
being felled. Trees should not be felled in a manner
90°
PLANNED PATH OF SAFE RETREAT 135° FROM PLANNED
LINE OF FALL
PLANNED LINE OF FALL
SAFE
RETREAT
ZONE
PLANNED
LINE OF FALL
Fig. 12
SAFE
RETREAT
ZONE
45°
45°
90°
135°
135° SAFE
RETREAT
ZONE
HINGE
2 in. OR 1/10 DIA
NOTCH -
APPROX. 1/3
DIAMETER OF
TRUNK
BACK CUT
2 in. Fig. 13

16
OPERATION
Before felling is started, consider the force and
direction of the wind, the lean and balance of the
tree, and the location of large limbs. These things
inuencethedirectioninwhichthetreewillfall.
Do not try to fell a tree along a line different from
its natural line of fall.
The chain saw operator should keep on the uphill
side of the terrain as the tree is likely to roll or
slide downhill after it is felled.
Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples,
and wire from the tree where felling cuts are to
be made.
Notched Undercut. Cut a notch about 1/3
the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to the
direction of fall. Make the cuts of the notch so
they intersect at a right angle to the line of fall.
This notch should be cleaned out to leave a
straight line. To keep the weight of the wood off
the saw, always make the lower cut of the notch
before the upper cut. See Figure 13.
Felling Backcut. The backcut is always made
level and horizontal, and at a minimum of 2 in.
above the horizontal cut of the notch. See Figures
13 - 14.
Never cut through to the notch. Always leave a
band of wood between the notch and backcut
(approximately2in.or1/10thediameterofthe
tree). This is called “hinge” or “hingewood.” It
controls the fall of the tree and prevents slipping
or twisting or shoot-back of the tree off the stump.
See Figures 13 - 14.
On large diameter trees, stop the back cut before
it is deep enough for the tree to either fall or settle
back on the stump. Then insert soft wooden or
plastic wedges into the cut so they do not touch
the chain. The wedges can be driven in, little by
little, to help jack the tree over. See Figure 15.
 As tree starts to fall, stop the chain saw and put
it down immediately. Retreat along the cleared
path, but watch the action in case something falls
your way. Be alert for overhead limbs or branches
that may fall and watch your footing.
WARNING:
Never cut through to the notch when making a
backcut. The hinge controls the fall of the tree,
this is the section of wood between the notch and
backcut.
NOTCH
BACK CUT
Fig. 15
Fig. 14
KICKBACK
Fig. 16
HINGE
WEDGE
Fig. 17

17
OPERATION
BUCKING
See Figures 16 - 19.
Bucking is the term used for cutting a fallen tree to
the desired log length.
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. Refer to
Precautions Against Kickback earlier in this
manual.
When bucking on a slope, always stand on
the uphill side of the log. To maintain complete
control of the chain saw when cutting through
the log, release the cutting pressure near the
end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the
chain saw handles. Do not let the chain contact
the ground. After completing the cut, wait for the
saw chain to stop before you move the chain
saw. Always stop the motor before moving from
tree to tree.
Sometimes it is impossible to avoid pinching
(withjuststandardcuttingtechniques)ordifcult
to predict which way a log will settle when cut.
To avoid pinching while cutting, rotate or move
the log so that the pinch is eliminated.
BUCKING LOGS UNDER STRESS
See Figures 18 - 19.
When the log is supported along its entire length,
it should be cut from the top or overbucking.
Whenthelogissupportedononeend,cut1/3the
diameter from the underside or underbucking. Then
makethenishingcutbyoverbuckingtomeetthe
rstcut.
As the log is being cut, it will tend to bend. The
saw can become pinched or hung in the log if you
maketherstcutdeeperthan1/3ofthediameter
of the log.
Give special attention to logs under stress to prevent
the bar and chain from pinching.
When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill
sideofthelogasshowningure18.When“cutting
through,” to maintain complete control of the chain
saw, release the cutting pressure near the end of

18
OPERATION
the cut without relaxing your grip on the chain saw
handles. Do not let the chain contact the ground.
After completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to
stop before you move the chain saw. Always stop
the motor before moving from tree to tree.
TYPES OF CUTTING USED
See Figure 19.
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
Begin on the under side of the log with the top of
the saw against the log; exert light pressure upward.
During underbucking, the saw will tend to push back
at you. Be prepared for this reaction and hold the
sawrmlytomaintaincontrol.
WARNING:
Never climb into a tree to limb or 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.
LOAD
FINISHING CUT
1ST CUT
1/3 DIA
LOG SUPPORTED AT ONE END:
LOG SUPPORTED AT BOTH ENDS:
FINISHING CUT
1ST CUT 1/3 DIA
LOAD
Fig. 18
Fig. 19
OVERBUCKING
UNDERBUCKING

19
OPERATION
LIMBING
See Figure 20.
Limbing is removing branches from a fallen tree.
Work slowly, keeping both hands on the chain
saw with a rm grip.Always make sure your
footing is secure and your weight is distributed
evenly on both feet.
Leave the larger support limbs under the tree to
keep the tree off the ground while cutting.
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
bottom up to avoid binding the chain saw.
Keep the tree between you and the chain saw
while limbing. Cut from the side of the tree
opposite the branch you are cutting.
PRUNING
See Figure 21.
Pruning is trimming limbs from a live tree.
Work slowly, keeping both hands on the chain
saw with a rm grip.Always make sure your
footing is secure and your weight is distributed
evenly on both feet.
Do not cut from a ladder, this is extremely
dangerous. Leave this operation for professionals.
Do not cut above chest height as a saw held
higherisdifculttocontrolagainstkickback.
When pruning trees it is important not to make
thenishingcutnexttothemainlimbortrunk
until you have cut off the limb further out to
reduce the weight. This prevents stripping the
bark from the main member.
Underbuckthebranch1/3throughforyourrst
cut.
Your second cut should overbuck to drop the
branch off.
Nowmakeyournishingcutsmoothlyandneatly
against the main member so the bark will grow
back to seal the wound.
WARNING:
If the limbs to be pruned are above chest height,
hire a professional to perform the pruning.
SPRINGPOLES
See Figure 22.
FINISHING CUT
FIRST CUT
1/3 DIAMETER
SECOND CUT
LOAD
SPRINGPOLE
Fig. 22
Fig. 21
Fig. 20
CUT LIMBS ONE AT A TIME AND LEAVE SUPPORT LIMBS
UNDER TREE UNTIL LOG IS CUT
4
1
3
2
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.
WARNING:
Springpoles are dangerous and could strike the
operator, causing the operator to lose control of
the chain saw. This could result in severe or fatal
injury to the operator.

20
MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
Toavoid seriouspersonalinjury,alwaysremovethe
battery pack from the product when cleaning or
performing any maintenance.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Before each use, inspect the entire product for
damaged, missing, or loose parts such as screws,
nuts, bolts, caps, etc. Tighten securely all fasteners
and caps and do not operate this product until all
missing or damaged parts are replaced. Please call
Ryobi Customer Service or contact an authorized
service center for assistance.
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts.
Most plastics are susceptible to damage from
various types of commercial solvents and may be
damaged by their use. Use clean cloths to remove
dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WARNING:
Do not at any time let brake uids, gasoline,
petroleum-based products, penetrating oils, etc.,
come in contact with plastic parts.Chemicals can
damage, weaken or destroy plastic which may
result in serious personal injury.
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended
to be repaired or replaced by the customer. All
other parts should be replaced at an Authorized
Service Center.
BATTERY PACK REMOVAL AND
PREPARATION FOR RECYCLING
WARNING:
Upon removal, cover the battery pack’s terminals
with heavy-duty adhesive tape. Do not attempt to
destroy or disassemble battery pack or remove
any of its components. Lithium-ion and nickel-
cadmium batteries must be recycled or disposed
of properly. Also, never touch both terminals with
metal objects and/or body parts as short circuit
may result. Keep away from children. Failure to
comply with these warnings could result in re
and/orseriousinjury.