How to Choose the Right Chainsaw for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best Chainsaws

Overview

A chainsaw can be an essential tool for anyone who needs to cut large amounts of wood quickly and efficiently. Whether you're a homeowner, a landscaper, or a professional lumberjack, the right chainsaw can make all the difference. But with so many models and features available, it can be hard to know which chainsaw is right for you. This buying guide will help you to sort through the options and make an informed decision on which chainsaw best suits your needs. We'll cover the different types of chainsaw, the features to look out for, and the best chainsaw brands and models on the market today.

Key features

  1. Engine Type - Consider the type of engine that powers the chainsaw. Generally, electric and battery powered chainsaws are less powerful than their gas powered counterparts.
  2. Bar Length - The bar length will determine the size of logs that the chainsaw can handle.
  3. Safety Features - Look for a chainsaw with proven safety features such as kickback protection, chain brakes, and anti-vibration handles.
  4. Power Source - Choose a chainsaw that uses an appropriate power source such as gas, electric, or battery.
  5. Quality of Materials - Select a chainsaw that is made with durable materials such as metal or hard plastic.
  6. Additional Features - Look for extra features such as automatic chain oiling or a dust blower that can make your job easier and more efficient.
  7. Price Range - Consider the cost of the chainsaw and compare it to other models in its category.

See the most popular Chainsaws on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Safety: Chainsaws are designed to be safe and efficient tools when used correctly, with safety features like chain brakes, kickback chains, and low-kickback bars.
  • Power: Chainsaws are designed to provide maximum power and efficiency in cutting through wood of various sizes and densities.
  • Durability: Chainsaws are constructed with durable materials to ensure a long lifespan.
  • Versatility: Chainsaws come in a variety of sizes and models, allowing for a wide range of uses, from pruning and trimming trees to cutting firewood.
  • Ease of Use: Chainsaws are designed to be easy to use, with ergonomic designs, comfortable grips, and electric starters for easy starting.

Cons

  • Cost - Chainsaws can be expensive, depending on the type and size that you purchase.
  • Storage - Chainsaws require proper storage and maintenance, and you may need to purchase a carrying case.
  • Safety Concerns - Chainsaws can be dangerous to use, and you must be trained and familiar with the safety protocols associated with them.
  • Noise - Chainsaws are very loud and can be disruptive to your neighbors or the surrounding environment.
  • Weight - Chainsaws can be quite heavy, making them difficult to maneuver for some people.
  • Fuel - Chainsaws are powered by gasoline or oil, so you will need to purchase fuel regularly.

Best alternatives

  1. Axes - A traditional tool used to chop wood, usually consisting of a heavy head mounted at a right angle on a handle.
  2. Handsaws - A tool with a small metal blade set in a frame, used for cutting wood, plastic, or other materials.
  3. Bowsaws - A type of saw in the shape of a bow with a thin blade, used for cutting curved patterns or making rough cuts in wood.
  4. Pruning Saws - A specialized saw designed for cutting through tough and thick branches or other hard materials.
  5. Hedge Trimmers - A tool used for trimming and shaping hedges and shrubs, usually with a pair of long blades.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Safety Gear - Ear and eye protection, gloves, and a helmet.
  • Oil - Chainsaw oil for lubricating the bar and chain.
  • Scrench - A tool for tightening and replacing the chain.
  • Chain File - A tool for sharpening the chain.
  • Chain Catcher - A plate mounted on the chainsaw body to prevent a runaway chain.
  • Combination Wrench - A wrench with a double-ended profile used to adjust the bar and chain tension.
  • Bar Cover - A protective cover that fits over the bar of the chainsaw.
  • Safety Kit - A set of items used to help reduce the risk of a chainsaw accident.

Common questions

  1. What are the different types of chainsaws? Chainsaws come in a variety of types, including electric chainsaws, gas-powered chainsaws, cordless battery-powered chainsaws, and pole saws.
  2. What size chainsaw should I buy? The size of chainsaw you should buy depends on your intended use. Smaller electric chainsaws are suitable for light-duty jobs such as pruning, trimming, and light-duty cutting, while larger gas-powered chainsaws may be better suited for heavy-duty tree removal and large-scale cutting jobs.
  3. What safety features should I look for? Chainsaws should be equipped with a few safety features, including an emergency stop switch, a spark arrestor, a chain catcher, a guard, and an automatic chain-oiler.
  4. What should I look for in terms of features? Features to look for include a comfortable ergonomic handle, adjustable tension control, an anti-vibration system, and a tool-free chain tensioner.
  5. How much should I expect to pay? Chainsaws range in price from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the size, type, and features.
  6. What should I do to maintain my chainsaw? To keep your chainsaw in good working condition, make sure to regularly clean it, oil the chain, check the chain tension, and sharpen the blade.

Trivia

In the United States, the chainsaw is celebrated with an annual festival in the town of Lodi, Wisconsin. The Lodi Chainsaw Event is now one of the largest chainsaw carving events in the world and has been held annually since 2001. Over 130 chainsaw carvers from around the world attend each year to compete for prizes and showcase their unique carvings. The event includes live entertainment, food and drinks, and even a chainsaw parade. Sources: Lodi Chainsaw Event

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.