Stale gas is almost certainly the culprit.

Start with the fuel. After a year, even “stabilized” gas can turn to varnish and clog the carburetor jets. That’s the #1 reason a saw won’t fire after sitting.

Drain the old gas, put in fresh mix, and try again. If it still won’t start, pull the plug and check for spark — a bad spark plug is the second most common issue. If you have spark, you’re looking at a carburetor cleaning or a new carb. Those little diaphragm carbs gum up fast.

Don’t bother messing with the chain brake or the recoil starter yet. Nine out of ten times, it’s fuel or fire.

Chainsaws hate sitting. Run them dry or drain the tank before storage next time.