Some records are simple. Some are hard. Some are flat-out terrifying. Balancing a running chainsaw on my chin falls squarely into the “terrifying” category, a challenge that took me years to even work up the nerve to attempt.
The Setup: No Margin for Error
It’s not just balance; there’s mechanical precision and significant risk. To qualify for the Guinness World Record, the chainsaw has to cut wood before the attempt begins, and the blade must remain engaged and spinning for the entire duration.
Because gas chainsaws have jerky and unpredicable 2-stroke engines, I opted for an electric model, which only runs at full speed once engaged. To keep it running, I had to override the safety features, meaning if it slipped, it wouldn’t stop automatically. I had a safety crew stationed nearby with one job: unplug the saw the moment it fell. The problem is that to keep the blade running full speed it has to be well lubricated and the auto-feed for the oil is expecting some of that oil to rub off on a tree. Since it was in the air on my chin it would drip down the engine, into my eyes (so I had to wear safety glasses), and on my chin – making a very slick surface the engine was ready to slide off at any moment.
The Attempt
I chose to make this attempt at my oldest son’s last soccer practice of the season, where I serve as an assistant coach. As I explained what I was about to do, the parents’ faces told the story: disbelief and genuine concern. (I shared it with them).
Once I placed the running chainsaw on my chin, it was about focus and paying attention to all the details.
The Reality: It shook, rattled, and rolled.
The Struggle: I had to keep the center of gravity just above my chin while the blade spun inches from my face. The oil dripped down and my nerves ramped up.
The Climax: My nerves spiked at the one-minute mark, but I kept my focus.
The Result: I held it for four minutes and 1.44 seconds before hitting my personal threshold for danger and letting it fall.
Despite wearing a helmet and neck protection, the risk was significant. When it finally fell, the standby crew wasn’t quite fast enough to unplug it immediately, a few seconds that felt like an eternity.
The Takeaway
I have no desire to ever do this one again, but I’m proud that the record is mine. It was a powerful reminder that while we can push ourselves to extraordinary lengths, we must also respect the lines between determination and sheer recklessness.