Engage chain brake
Before starting the chainsaw, engage the chain brake. To do this, push the chain brake forward.

Remove scabbard
Always remove the scabbard to start your chainsaw.

Press decompression valve
If your chainsaw has a decompression valve, press it. This will make it easier to start the engine and therefore start your chainsaw.

Press fuel pump several times
If the chainsaw has a fuel pump, press it several times (at least 10 times). This makes the starting process easier and reduces the number of starting strokes.
Do not worry about the chainsaw not starting if you press the pump too often, – this cannot happen with STIHL machines.

Set master lever to start position
Set the master lever to the start position (▲). The master lever must be held until the throttle lever has been released. Otherwise, the master lever jumps back again.

Place chainsaw on flat surface
Place the chainsaw on a flat surface to start it. Make sure that the cutting attachment does not come into contact with the ground.

Stabilise chainsaw
Leaving the chainsaw on the ground, grasp it with both hands. Place your left hand on the handlebar and your right hand on the starter rope. Push your right toecap into the rear handle. This stabilises the chainsaw.

Pull starter rope
Slowly pull the starter rope with your right hand until you feel resistance. Then pull the starter rope hard several times until the engine fires briefly. Pull upward as vertically as possible without the rope chafing against the fan housing.

Touch throttle lever
As soon as the engine has fired and is running, touch the throttle lever briefly with your index finger. Now the master lever moves to the operating position (I).

Lift chainsaw off ground
Then slowly lift the chainsaw off the ground, taking care not to touch the throttle lever.

Release chain brake
Now release the chain brake by pulling the chain brake handle toward you with your left hand. However, do not let go of the handlebar. When you hear a click sound, this means the chain has been released and can turn on the bar.

Test chain lubrication
Before you get started, test the chain lubrication: If you hold the saw over a piece of paper or a light-coloured piece of wood with the chain running at full throttle, you should see a clear trace of oil on the light-coloured background.

Safe working practices
The saw is now ready for use. For safe working practices, please read the operating instructions beforehand.