Yep chainsaws are a very creative tool, as well as sculpture there's an amazing array of different notches and joins used for assembling log-built structures with little if any fastening hardware. And a well-tuned gang of climbers dropping a big tree, swinging from limb to limb with saws dangling from their waist, is a sight to behold.

I would put glasses, ear defenders, gloves and boots higher on that safety gear list, when cutting firewood, doing minor pruning and lopping etc.. Wear a helmet when doing anything bigger, although wood is very dense and you shouldn't expect a helmet to save you if a decent size limb comes your way. Technique is everything - learn from an expert before trying it yourself.

Chain sharpening is a mystical, ancient art, all the experts I talk to have a different view on the right technique, ranging from bench grinders to intricate jigs to simple "file and feel". I've tried them all and it basically comes down to experience. Just as important is the even wear of the bar itself, once its worn more on one side than the other the cuts bend like bananas and you can only cut so deep before the saw gets no purchase on the wood at all.

I think chainsaws are as pretty as IDEs - which maybe isn't saying much, but I love 'em both anyway...