Chainsaws were originally invented by two Scottish doctors in the late eighteenth century as a surgical instrument to assist with difficult childbirths, rather than cutting down trees.

A closer look

Chainsaws were originally invented by two Scottish doctors in the late eighteenth century as a surgical instrument to assist with difficult childbirths, rather than cutting down trees. This terrifying prototype, called an osteotome, resembled a modern chainsaw but was operated by a hand crank and used to surgically remove pieces of pelvic bone to widen the birth canal. It took several decades before some enterprising logger looked at this horrific medical device and realized it would be great for forestry. It is absolutely staggering to consider that one of humanity's most aggressive and dangerous power tools started its journey in the maternity ward. The next time you see a lumberjack dramatically cutting down a massive oak tree, just take a moment to appreciate the horrifying gynecological origins of his chosen instrument!