Brian Mitchell wrote:
Hi,

I have a line of leylandii very close to the house (like, seven feet)
which I need to fell and then reduce. I presume this is a supposed hedge
that got out of control and the average size is now 20+ feet high and
10" diameter (chest height).

Hmmm. Firewood!

I'm thinking of getting an electric chainsaw for this, since the job is
close to the house and I think an electric one might be more manageable
up a ladder than a petrol-driven one, but I would welcome any
experienced advice on chainsaws in general, electric ones in particular,
and brands. I'd also quite like to know how *small* a diameter of branch
it's feasible to cut with one.

Well, if you must get an electric one, don't get one with a twisty
locking knob on the side - the old-fashioned lock-it-with-a-spanner jobs
don't come undone while you're working.

I've never know a twistylocking-knob model not to come loose during
operation. Then, the cheaper ones lose their grip on the locking nut
when you (or in the case of the one I've got, a neighbour) turns it
beyond the strength of the plastic. He gave me one of his defunct
chainsaws on the understanding that if I could fix it, I'd mend his
other one.

Duly did both (drilling a couple of small holes corresponding with the
slots in the shaft and bending a piece of stainless-steel welding rod
into a big staple shape. Still comes loose, and I use a bowsaw or big
crosscut now in preference.

Also, I fear that the lead might get in the way while you're up the tree.

Back in the late 1950s we (Emerson Park Tree Felling Company) used a 36"
Pioneer - up trees in excess of 150 ft...
Elfin Safety'd have a fit now! Nor did we have leggings, jackets,
helmets, etc. Goggles and leather gloves, ropes, tackle and so-on, yes.

I don't think these handy accesories are de rigeur if you are using a
power saw on your own property, yourself, but check the law *VERY*
carefully if a neighbour asks you to use it on his land...

--
Rusty