Ryobi RY42102 Operator's Manual page 41

KICKBACK
See Figures 1 - 2.
WARNING:
Kickback may occur when the moving chain
contacts an object at the upper portion of the
tip of the guide bar or when the wood closes in
and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Contact at
the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar can
cause the chain to dig into the object and stop
the chain for an instant. The result is a lightning
fast, reverse reaction which kicks the guide bar
up and back toward the operator. If the saw
chain is pinched along the top of the guide bar,
the guide bar can be driven rapidly back toward
the operator. Either of these reactions can cause
loss of saw control which can result in serious
injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety
devices built into the saw. As a chain saw user,
you should take several steps to keep your
cutting jobs free from accident or injury.
 The following precautions should be followed
to minimize kickback:
1. Always grip the saw firmly with both hands.
Hold the saw firmly with both hands when
the unit is running. Place your right hand on
the rear handle and your left hand on the
front handle with your thumbs and fingers
encircling the chain saw handles. A firm grip
together with a stiff left arm will help you
maintain control of the saw if kickback occurs.
2. 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.
3. Always cut with the unit running. Fully
squeeze the switch trigger and maintain
cutting speed.
CHAIN SAW SAFETY WARNINGS
Page 7 — English
4. Use replacement parts such as low kickback
chains and special guide bars that reduce
the risks associated with rotational kickback.
Use only the replacement guide bars
and low kickback chains specified by the
manufacturer for the saw.
 With a basic understanding of kickback, you
can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise.
Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.
 Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times.
 Do not cut above chest height or overreach
when cutting. Do not let the nose of the guide
bar contact a log, branch, ground, or any other
obstruction while you are operating the unit.
 Follow the sharpening and maintenance
instructions for the saw chain.
ROTATIONAL
KICKBACK
Fig. 1
KICKBACK
DANGER ZONE
Fig. 2