Chainsaws can be an essential power tool for any home or professional user, regardless of the type of job that needs to be done. They are powerful, and versatile and come in a variety of sizes and shapes, making them the perfect tool for cutting through wood, pruning trees, and more. But with so many different types of chainsaws available, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your needs.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the question of which chainsaw is best for the job. Having said that, here are some general guidelines for selecting the best chainsaw.
To help you make the right choice, this guide will cover the different types of chainsaws, what size chainsaw you need, chainsaw facts and safety equipment, and how to properly maintain your chainsaw.
Table of Contents
What are the Different Types of Chainsaws?
Chainsaws come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it’s important to know the different types before you purchase one. The most common types of chainsaws are gas, electric, battery, pole saws, and mini chainsaws.
Gas chainsaws are the most powerful type and are used for heavy-duty jobs like cutting down trees or logs. They can also be the most expensive type, but they come with more power and longer run times than other types.
Electric chainsaws are one of the most popular types and are the best choice for most general yard work. They are quieter than gas chainsaws, they start up quickly and easily and require less maintenance. However, they do not have the same power as gas chainsaws.
Battery chainsaws are the most convenient type, as they do not require cords or gas. They are perfect for small jobs like pruning, trimming, and other light yard work. The downside is that they usually have shorter run times compared to other types.
Pole saws are a special type of chainsaw that are designed for pruning and trimming trees and shrubs. They are lightweight and have a long reach, making them ideal for hard-to-reach areas.
Mini chainsaws are the smallest type and are perfect for light pruning and trimming of small branches and trees. They are very lightweight and easy to use, but as in Electric chainsaws they do not have the same power as larger gas and battery chainsaws.
What Size Chainsaw Do I Need?
The type of chainsaw you need depends on the job you’re doing. If you are doing heavy-duty work like cutting down trees or logs, then a gas chainsaw is your best choice. If you’re doing light work like pruning, trimming, and other light yard work, then an electric or battery chainsaw will suffice.
If you’re doing more specialized work like pruning and trimming trees and shrubs, then a pole saw or mini chainsaw is the best choice.
The size of the chainsaw is also important. If you’re doing heavy-duty work, then a larger chainsaw, more powerful engine or motor with a longer bar and chain is your best choice. For light work, a smaller less powered chainsaw will do the job.
Certain operations require a chainsaw with a specific bar size. As a general guideline, the chainsaw bar should be at least two inches longer than the thickness of the material you’re attempting to cut.
- Pruning: Small limbs, 6- to 10-inch bar; larger branches, 8- to 12-inch bar
- Felling trees: Small trees, 12- to 14-inch bar; medium trees, 16- to 18-inch bar; large trees, 20 inches or more
- Splitting firewood: 14- to 16-inch bar
Most chainsaws allow you to replace out blades that are shorter or longer.
Chainsaw Facts
Gas Chainsaws
Gas chainsaws are the most powerful type and are used for heavy-duty jobs like cutting down trees or logs. They are also the most expensive type, but they come with more power and longer run times than other types.
Gas chainsaws are often heavier and more difficult to maneuver, so they should only be used by experienced users. They are also louder and require more maintenance than other types of chainsaws.
They range from lightweight versions to heavy-duty saws capable of cutting down large trees. A gasoline-powered chainsaw features a pull-start and a two-cycle engine that runs on a combination of oil and gasoline.
Electric Chainsaws
Electric chainsaws are one of the most popular type and are the best choice for most general garden and yard work. They are quieter than gas chainsaws, and they start up quickly and easily. However, they do not have the same power as gas chainsaws.
Electric chainsaws are lighter and easier to maneuver than gas chainsaws, making them perfect for smaller jobs. They are also quieter, so they are ideal for residential areas or where noise is a concern.
Electric Chainsaws need a proper extension cord that reaches the work area, so this may need to be factored into the price. The length of the extension cord limits your work area distance, and you must keep the cord out of the way while you work (many people have ended up cutting through the electric cord by accident).
Battery Chainsaws
Battery chainsaws are the most convenient type, as they do not require electric cords or gas. They are perfect for small jobs like pruning, trimming, and other light yard work. The downside is that they usually have shorter run times compared to other types.
Battery chainsaws are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them perfect for smaller jobs and areas where noise is a concern. They are also quieter and require less maintenance than other types of chainsaws.
The electric motors in Battery Chainsaws are also quieter and are better for the environment than a gas engine. Some of the top end best battery chainsaws include brushless motors and higher-voltage batteries for extended battery life.
Pole Saws
Pole saws are a special type of chainsaw that are designed for pruning and trimming trees and shrubs. They are lightweight and have a long reach, making them ideal for hard-to-reach areas.
Pole saws are easy to maneuver and are perfect for small jobs like pruning, trimming, and other light yard work. They are also quieter than other types of chainsaws, so they are ideal for residential areas or where noise is a concern.
They come in gasoline, cordless, and corded variants. Some variants feature solid extender pieces that may be attached to the handle, while others have telescoping poles that allow the user to choose the required length for maximum versatility. Some pole saws are capable of being converted into regular chainsaws. String trimmer pole saw attachments are available for some models.
Mini Chainsaws
Mini chainsaws are the smallest type and are perfect for light pruning and trimming of small branches and trees. They are lightweight and easy to use, but they do not have the same power as larger chainsaws.
Mini Chainsaw designs often include an enclosure or pair of jaws that enclose the cutting bar. The enclosure shields and protects you from the chain. The enclosure’s teeth assist in gripping the material you’re cutting. Some types employ a scissors-like movement to grip the material as you cut.
Often battery operated or electric corded, with a few Mini Chainsaws that are small engine gas operated. They are the perfect choice for small jobs like pruning and trimming, and they are easy to maneuver in tight spaces. They are also quieter than other types of chainsaws, so they are ideal for residential areas or where noise is a concern.
Chainsaw Features
When selecting a chainsaw, consider the following features:
- Front hand guard: protects the left hand and wrist not on the trigger in the event of kickback. Chainsaws are not manufactured in left-handed configurations.
- Chain brake: stops the chain from moving to help prevent injury; the front guard acts as a brake when it is pushed forward; pulling it back allows the chain to move again.
- Ignition “on/off” switch: on electric saws; it turns the electric system on or off.
- Safety throttle: a mechanism that will not allow the trigger to be pulled unless you have a grip on the rear handle; prevent accidental chain acceleration.
- Chain catcher: a protruding bar at the bottom of the saw that will stop the rotation of the chain if it breaks or derails.
- Rear handle guard: this is a widening of the back handle; it is designed to prevent hand injury if the chain breaks or derails.
- Choke: helps start a cold engine; restricts the air supply to the carburetor, making the air mixture rich.
- Spring-assist starting: this reduces the pulling force needed to start a gasoline-powered saw.
- Anit-vibration system: this is a system made up of either rubber bushings or coil springs between the engine and handles; the system reduces numbing vibration on the operator’s hands.
- Muffler and spark arrestor: a muffler will reduce engine noise; a spark arrestor is a screen that keeps sparks that can cause a fire from flying from the machine.
- Automatic oiler: lubricates the chain as you cut so you don’t have to remember to activate it.
- Correct chain/bar combinations: use the chain size recommended for the guide bar; an incorrect combination can result in the chain not fitting the drive sprocket for the saw or the sprocket tip of the guide bar. An incorrect length will not fit on the saw.
- Bar and chain scabbard: protects the bar and chain when the saw is not in use.
- Carrying case: protects the saw and makes it easier and safer to transport.
- Scrench tool (all-in-one tool).
- Chainsaw sharpening kit and chainsaw files.
Chainsaw Facts and Safety Equipment
Before using any type of chainsaw, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers. Chainsaws can be dangerous if used improperly, so it’s important to wear the proper safety equipment and understand the different safety features.
When using a chainsaw, it’s important to wear safety glasses, ear protection, and protective gloves. You should also make sure that your clothes fit properly and are not too loose or baggy.
You should also be aware of the kickback feature on most chainsaws, especially the most powerful gas chainsaws. Kickback is a sudden and powerful reaction from the chainsaw that can cause serious injury if not handled properly. It’s important to always use caution when using a chainsaw and to read the operator’s manual for proper use.
Standard safety equipment includes:
Eye protection with side shields.
Hearing protection, such as earmuffs and earplugs.
Boots or shoes with steel toes and nonslip soles.
A hard hat for protection when cutting and trimming overhead.
Specialized safety equipment for use with a chainsaw includes:
Leg protection, such as chaps or cut-resistant pants.
Gloves with enhanced gripping surfaces and cut resistance.
Chainsaw helmets that include face protection, neck guards and hearing protection.
Chainsaw Maintenance
Chainsaw maintenance is a very important part of owning and using a chainsaw. It’s important to keep the chainsaw well-maintained to ensure that it runs properly and safely.
Regular maintenance includes checking the chain tension, sharpening the blade, and keeping the bar and chain oiled. It’s also important to inspect the chainsaw for any worn or broken parts and to replace them if necessary.
It’s also important to read the operator’s manual for proper use and safety. This will help ensure that you are using the chainsaw safely and correctly.
- Always charge and store the battery on your cordless chainsaw exactly as recommended. Fuel your gas chainsaw with the type and amount of fuel required.
- Check that the bar and chain are properly lubricated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Clean the chain brake, if applicable, and wipe excess debris off the bar and engine during and after use.
- Keep air intake slots clear.
- If you notice the bar is starting to show signs of wear, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for rotating the bar.
- For electric chainsaws, double-check that the cord is not damaged.
- If the chain on your tool becomes dull, it is sometimes easier and less dangerous to simply replace the chain rather than try to sharpen it at home.
- Always check for any loose screws and nuts on the equipment before use. These are especially important to look for if your chainsaw feels like it has been vibrating more than usual.
- On gas chainsaws, check the fuel filter and change when necessary and according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Drain the gas and oil completely before storing gas chainsaws for extended periods.
Safety Tip: Before conducting any cleaning or maintenance on your chainsaw, be sure it is totally switched off and removed from electricity. Unplug cordless models, unplug electric models, and unhook the spark plug on gas models. Check if the gas engines are cold to the touch.
Conclusion
Chainsaws come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it’s important to know the different types before you purchase one. The most common types of chainsaws are gas, electric, battery, pole saws, and mini chainsaws.
Gas chainsaws are the most powerful and best suited for heavy operations. They require both fuel and oil changes.
Electric chainsaws are lightweight and feature a power cable that requires an outside electric outlet or generator.
Battery Cordless chainsaws are powered by a rechargeable battery and provide the user with the most mobility.
It’s also important to wear the proper safety equipment, understand the different safety features, and keep the chainsaw well-maintained. The size of the chainsaw should also be taken into consideration, as it will depend on the job you’re doing.
We hope this guide has helped you better understand the different types of chainsaws and how to choose the right one for your needs. With the right chainsaw, you can complete any job with ease and safety.