| Fig. 1 – Manual sawing as observed by a forest supervisor. |
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| Fig. 2 – One of the earliest one-person chainsaws. |
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| Photos: WSL Archives |
The first chainsaws were developed in the 1920s. This innovation revolutionized timber production, much like how the transition from axes to hand saws had previously transformed the industry.
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The history of forestry is deeply intertwined with human civilization. For thousands of years, forests have shaped and been shaped by society, evolving from mysterious, dangerous places into vital sources of timber. Over time, they were tamed, becoming essential for economic growth and also serving roles in protection, recreation, and environmental balance.
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For centuries, logging was considered one of the lowest jobs, often held by those at the bottom of the social hierarchy. However, the introduction of the modern chainsaw changed everything. It elevated the status of loggers, transforming them from lowly laborers into respected professionals who operated advanced machinery.
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From the Axe to the Saw
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The axe is one of the oldest tools used for cutting wood. Its design has evolved through different eras, reflecting the cultural and technological progress of humanity. It remained a primary tool for felling trees well into the 19th century.
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Around 5000 B.C., Germanic tribes created the first saws by carving small teeth into flint blades. Though it's unclear if these early tools were used for woodwork, they marked an important step in tool development. With the discovery of copper, bronze was used to make axes and saws, which became widely used not only in forestry but also in warfare. By 750 B.C., iron began to replace bronze, yet saws continued to be made of bronze for many years. They were more commonly used by artisans, doctors, and surgeons rather than in the forests.
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As technology advanced, so did the tools used in forestry. The evolution from the axe to the saw and eventually to the chainsaw reflects not just changes in efficiency, but also broader shifts in society, economy, and culture. These tools helped shape the way humans interacted with nature, making large-scale forest management possible and changing the role of the logger forever.
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